Beam is a structural element that primarily resists loads applied laterally to the beam’s axis. Its mode of deflection is primarily by bending. … Beams characterized by their manner of support, profile (shape of cross-section), length, and their material
The four different types of beams are:
- Simply Supported Beam.
- Fixed Beam.
- Cantilever Beam.
- Continuously Supported Beam.
H sections are designed to take axial forces, as columns or piles (that is underground columns). While I sections are designed to be beams, bending in a single direction. Yes H sections CAN be used as beams, but they will be heavier (read more Expe$ive) than an I beam that can take the same loads.
It gets its name because it looks like a capital H over its cross section. The H–beam has wider flanges than an I-beam, but the I-beam has tapered edges. The width is the flange, and the height is the Web. The difference between both H–beams and I-beams is the flange by web ratio.