I-Beams (IPE & IPN Series): Essential Profiles for Efficient Structures
I-Beams, also widely known as Junior Beams or Standard Beams, are critical components in modern construction and industrial applications. Renowned for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and high resistance to bending, these profiles are meticulously engineered to support diverse structural requirements. We offer two primary types of European I-Beams: the IPE (Parallel Flange) and the IPN (Tapered Flange) series.
Understanding Our I-Beam Profiles
1. IPE Series (European Parallel Flange Beams)
The IPE beam is characterized by its parallel inner and outer flange surfaces, making it the most common and versatile I-beam profile. Its design facilitates easy connections through welding or bolting, making it ideal for a broad spectrum of structural applications.
- Key Features: Consistent flange thickness, excellent bending resistance, and ease of fabrication.
- Typical Applications: Building frames, roof supports, floor joists, and machinery platforms.
2. IPN Series (European Tapered Flange Beams)
The IPN beam, also known as INP, features flanges with a distinct 14% taper on their inner surfaces. This traditional profile is particularly valued for its robust load-bearing capacity and is often selected for specialized engineering projects or as a replacement for older structural designs.
- Key Features: Tapered flanges, robust design, effective for concentrated loads.
- Typical Applications: Crane runways, monorail systems, heavy lintels, and specialized industrial supports.
Key Characteristics & Benefits
- Superior Bending Strength: I-Beams are specifically designed to withstand significant shear forces and bending moments, making them highly efficient in load transfer.
- Optimized Weight-to-Strength Ratio: Their “I” shape strategically distributes material, providing maximum structural integrity with minimized weight.
- Standardized Dimensions: Manufactured according to European standards (e.g., EN 10025 for steel grades), ensuring dimensional accuracy and compatibility.
- Versatile Applications: From light residential structures to heavy industrial frameworks, I-beams adapt to various project scales.
Technical Overview
Our I-Beams are available in a comprehensive range of sizes, typically from IPE 80 to IPE 600 and equivalent IPN dimensions. They are supplied in various steel grades, including S235JR, S275JR, and S355J2, to match specific project demands for yield strength and toughness.
| Feature | IPE (Parallel Flange) | IPN (Tapered Flange) |
| Flange Shape | Parallel inner and outer surfaces | Inner surfaces have a 14% taper |
| Connection Ease | Excellent (easy to weld/bolt) | Good (may require tapered washers) |
| Primary Use | General structural applications | Specialized, traditional structures |
