A structural drawing shows a beam labeled 'W12x26'. What does the '26' represent?
Correct Answer
B) Weight per linear foot in pounds
In steel beam designations, the number after the 'x' represents the weight per linear foot in pounds. A W12x26 beam weighs 26 pounds per linear foot.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
The steel beam designation system follows a standardized format where 'W' indicates a wide-flange beam, the first number (12) represents the nominal depth in inches, and the number after the 'x' (26) represents the weight per linear foot in pounds. This is a universal standard used throughout the construction industry for identifying structural steel members. Understanding this designation system is crucial for reading structural drawings and specifications correctly.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Length of the beam in feet
The length of a beam is not indicated in the beam designation - beam lengths are specified separately on drawings or in schedules since beams of the same size designation can be cut to various lengths as needed for the project.
Option C: Depth of the beam in inches
While the first number (12) does represent the nominal depth, the number after the 'x' (26) is not the depth - that would be redundant information since depth is already indicated by the first number.
Option D: Width of the flange in inches
The width of the flange is not directly indicated in the beam designation - flange dimensions are found in steel reference tables and vary based on the specific beam size and weight per foot.
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