A structural drawing shows a beam labeled 'W12x26'. What does the '26' represent?
Correct Answer
C) The weight per linear foot in pounds
In steel beam designation, 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 standard designation for wide-flange steel beams follows the format W(depth)x(weight per linear foot). In W12x26, the 'W' indicates it's a wide-flange beam, '12' represents the nominal depth in inches, and '26' represents the weight per linear foot in pounds. This is a universally accepted structural steel naming convention used throughout the construction industry.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: The length of the beam in feet
The '26' does not represent length in feet. Beam length is specified separately on drawings and is not part of the standard beam designation system.
Option B: The depth of the beam in inches
The '26' is not the depth in inches. The depth is represented by the first number '12' in the designation W12x26, indicating a nominal 12-inch deep beam.
Option D: The maximum load capacity in kips
The '26' does not represent maximum load capacity in kips. Load capacity depends on span, loading conditions, and support conditions, which are calculated separately using engineering formulas.
Memory Technique
Think 'Weight eXtra' - the number after the 'x' is always the weight per linear foot. W12x26 = 12 inches deep, weighs 26 pounds per foot.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 22 - Steel, or AISC Steel Construction Manual for beam designation standards
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