AISC Wide Flange beam design
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) 15th Edition specification governs structural W-beam selection.
Beams are designed for allowable flexural stress (Fb = 0.66 Fy for compact sections) and maximum deflection under live load (L/360 ceiling, L/240 floor).
Worked example: W8x15 basement support beam
A 14-foot (4.27m) span carrying 800 plf uniform load produces 19.6 kip-ft moment. A W8x15 beam (Sx = 11.8 in³, Ix = 48.0 in⁴) satisfies strength and deflection limits.
US beam calculator inputs
Section
Select standard AISC Wide Flange W-shape (e.g. W8x10, W8x15, W10x12).
CALCULATOR QUESTIONS
AISC W-Beam deflection & load calculator questions
What does W8x15 mean in steel beams?
In AISC nomenclature, W8x15 signifies a Wide flange beam approximately 8 inches deep weighing 15 pounds per linear foot.
What deflection limit is code required in the US?
The International Building Code (IBC Table 1604.3) requires L/360 for plaster ceilings, L/240 for general ceilings, and L/180 for roof members.