Aluminum beams are used in many construction projects from temporary supports for poured concrete structures to framing for buildings, platforms, and bridges. In construction, aluminum beams are often the best choice for framing when weight is a factor. Aluminum I beams can be cost effective since fewer aluminum beams may be necessary compared to wooden support beams.
Aluminum is lightweight and allows high strength-to-weight ratios. There are many aluminum beam shapes and sizes available to meet your building needs. Aluminum is also a good conductor for electrical current. Aluminum H beams may be supporting framework and can be used in conductor systems from 500 to 3000 ampere ratings. Aluminum H beams are light and can reduce corona that can be a problem with other conductive metals - especially over longer spans.
When choosing aluminum beams, consider the following:
- The weight the aluminum beam must support.
- The length the aluminum beams must span.
- The other materials that must be used in conjunction with the aluminum beams.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Determine the best type of aluminum beam for your project
Many factors will determine if aluminum beams are appropriate for your project. Once you know the exact aluminum beam specifications you need, you can consider the best type of aluminum beams for your project.
I recommend: eFunda has a tool that allows you to see the properties and specifications for many different beam dimensions for aluminum beam design.
The Aluminum Association has a guide to help designers when working with aluminum beams.
Find good aluminum I beam fabricators
If you have decided that aluminum I beams are best for your project, finding a skilled manufacturer is essential.
I recommend: American Aluminum produces an extruded aluminum beam for many different uses.
C.E.M. Supply has a wide selection of aluminum I beams and aluminum H beams, and specializes in marine applications.
Find the best aluminum H beam fabricator for your project
If strength and weight are factors in your design, aluminum H beams may be ideal. It is important to find an experienced aluminum beam manufacturer.
I recommend: Brunner Enterprises Inc. carries a wide selection of aluminum H beams and aluminum H beams. They offer free quotes and financing is available for larger projects.
Online Metals.com sells aluminum beams for most any application and has a handy conversion tool to allow you to covert your measurements into fractions or millimeters.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Aluminum is an environmentally friendly metal. Used aluminum beams may be recycled and used for new aluminum beam sizes.
The official source of Aluminum Beams is the Aluminum Beams page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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