What is the difference between a Universal Beam (UB) and a Parallel Flange Channel(PFC)?

Question

Structural Engineering Question....

I am curious as to what the difference is between a Universal Beam (UB) and a Parallel Parallel Flange Panels (PFC).

I get the impression a UB is like an 'I' beam and and PFC is like half an I beam (that is, the letter 'u' lying on its side!!!)

Also what do the three measurements mean when these items are specified, for example....
200x90x30 PFC
254x102x28 UB

I assume this means height, depth, and guage... with length left unspecified initially if being used to bridge a stairway opening as an example?

Thanks for any information.

Answer 1

There are several types of I beam geerally used for different purposes. Universal beam (UB) used horizontally, Universal Column (UC), used vertically and Rolled Steel Joist (RSJ) which tends to be smaller sections than a UB and also used horizontally. A Channel has a cross section like a C or U on its side as you say. It used to be known as a Rolled Steel Channel (RSC). Sizes 200 x 90 x 30 mean 200mm High x 90mm wide and weight is 30 kg's for each metre. Structural steelwork manuals will give you all the info

Answer 2

Pfc Beam

Answer 3

Just to make things interesting Corus moved the goalposts in September 2006
http://www.corusconstruction.com/en/products_and_services/structural_steelwork/sections/advance_sections/

Enjoy

Answer 4

what is the difference between UB and ISMB?

Answer 5

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