Determine the exact weight of your I-beams quickly and accurately. Essential for structural engineers, architects, and construction professionals.
Beam Weight Calculation
Enter the details of your I-beam to calculate its weight. Common steel types are available, or you can input a specific density.
Use standard designations like W, S, HP followed by depth and weight per foot.
Enter the total length of the I-beam in feet.
Enter density in pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft³). Default is standard steel (approx. 490 lbs/ft³). Leave blank to use standard steel density.
Your Calculated I-Beam Weight
— lbs
Weight per Foot: — lbs/ft
Cross-sectional Area: — in²
Volume: — ft³
Formula: Weight = Length × (Cross-sectional Area / 144) × Density
What is I Beam Weight Calculation?
I Beam Weight Calculation refers to the process of determining the total weight of a structural I-beam based on its dimensions, type, length, and the density of the material it's made from, typically steel. I-beams, also known as H-beams or universal beams, are fundamental structural components used extensively in construction for beams, columns, and bridge supports. Understanding their weight is crucial for several reasons: ensuring the structural integrity of a design, calculating load capacities, estimating transportation and handling requirements, and controlling project costs.
Professionals who commonly engage in I Beam Weight Calculation include structural engineers, architects, construction managers, steel fabricators, and quantity surveyors. Accurately knowing the weight of steel beams allows for precise structural analysis, correct specification of lifting equipment, and efficient material procurement. Miscalculations can lead to overspending, structural under-design, or safety hazards.
A common misconception is that all I-beams of the same nominal size have the same weight. In reality, I-beams are categorized by their depth and weight per linear foot (e.g., W12x26 has a nominal depth of 12 inches and weighs approximately 26 pounds per foot). Different manufacturers might also have slight variations. Another misconception is that the weight calculation is overly complex and requires specialized software; while complex analysis might, basic weight calculation is straightforward with the right information.
I Beam Weight Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The core principle behind I Beam Weight Calculation is the relationship between volume, density, and mass (weight). The weight of an I-beam is determined by its volume and the density of the steel from which it is manufactured. The formula can be broken down into these steps:
Deriving the Formula
Cross-sectional Area: The first step is to determine the cross-sectional area of the specific I-beam profile. This is often found in steel design tables or can be calculated if the flange and web dimensions are known. For standard designations (like W, S, HP), the cross-sectional area (in square inches) is a key characteristic.
Volume Calculation: The volume of the beam is calculated by multiplying its cross-sectional area by its length. However, units must be consistent. Since area is typically in square inches (in²) and length in feet (ft), we need to convert the area to square feet. There are 144 square inches in 1 square foot (12 inches/foot × 12 inches/foot = 144 in²/ft²). So, Volume (ft³) = (Cross-sectional Area (in²) / 144) × Length (ft).
Weight Calculation: Finally, the total weight is found by multiplying the volume by the density of the steel. The standard density for steel used in structural applications is approximately 490 pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft³). Weight (lbs) = Volume (ft³) × Density (lbs/ft³).
The Combined Formula
Combining these steps, the formula for I Beam Weight Calculation becomes:
Total Weight (lbs) = Length (ft) × [Cross-sectional Area (in²) / 144] × Steel Density (lbs/ft³)
Variable Explanations
Variables in I Beam Weight Calculation
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Beam Length
The total linear length of the I-beam.
Feet (ft)
0.1 ft to 100+ ft
Cross-sectional Area
The area of the beam's profile if sliced perpendicular to its length.
Square Inches (in²)
Approx. 3 in² (for W4x13) to 30+ in² (for W36x300)
Steel Density
The mass per unit volume of the steel.
Pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft³)
~489.5 to 491 lbs/ft³ (Standard Steel)
Total Weight
The final calculated weight of the entire I-beam.
Pounds (lbs)
Varies greatly based on dimensions and length.
Conversion Factor
Factor to convert square inches to square feet.
Dimensionless
144 (in²/ft²)
Accurate I Beam Weight Calculation hinges on precise input values, especially the correct identification of the beam's cross-sectional area, which is intrinsic to its designation (e.g., W12x40 implies a certain area).
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Let's illustrate I Beam Weight Calculation with practical scenarios:
Example 1: Standard Steel Beam for a Floor Joist
Scenario: A structural engineer needs to determine the weight of a W8x31 wide-flange steel beam that will be used as a primary floor joist. The beam is 14 feet long.
Inputs:
Beam Designation: W8x31
Beam Length: 14 ft
Steel Density: (Using standard ~490 lbs/ft³)
Intermediate Calculations:
From steel tables, a W8x31 beam has a cross-sectional area of approximately 9.12 in².
Volume = (9.12 in² / 144 in²/ft²) × 14 ft = 0.06333 ft² × 14 ft = 0.8867 ft³.
Interpretation: This 14-foot W8x31 beam weighs approximately 435.4 pounds. This weight is crucial for calculating dead loads on supporting columns and foundations, and for specifying appropriate lifting and installation equipment.
Example 2: Heavy Column Section
Scenario: An architect is specifying a W14x109 steel beam to be used as a short, heavy-duty column in a commercial building. The column section is 10 feet long.
Inputs:
Beam Designation: W14x109
Beam Length: 10 ft
Steel Density: (Using standard ~490 lbs/ft³)
Intermediate Calculations:
A W14x109 beam has a cross-sectional area of approximately 32.1 in².
Volume = (32.1 in² / 144 in²/ft²) × 10 ft = 0.2229 ft² × 10 ft = 2.229 ft³.
Interpretation: This 10-foot W14x109 column weighs approximately 1093 pounds. This significant weight informs the foundation design and requires robust handling procedures during construction.
These examples highlight how I Beam Weight Calculation informs critical engineering and construction decisions.
How to Use This I Beam Weight Calculator
Our I Beam Weight Calculator is designed for simplicity and accuracy. Follow these steps to get your results:
Identify Your I-Beam: First, determine the specific designation of your I-beam. This typically includes a letter (W for wide-flange, S for standard I-beam, HP for bearing pile) followed by numbers indicating nominal depth and weight per foot (e.g., W12x40).
Enter Beam Designation: In the "I-Beam Type" field, input the full designation (e.g., "W12x40"). The calculator will use this to infer the cross-sectional area.
Input Beam Length: Enter the total length of the I-beam in feet into the "Beam Length" field.
Specify Steel Density (Optional): If you are using a specific type of steel with a non-standard density, enter it in lbs/ft³ in the "Steel Density" field. If left blank or set to the default value (~490 lbs/ft³), the calculator assumes standard structural steel.
Click Calculate: Press the "Calculate Weight" button.
Reading Your Results
Primary Result (Total Weight): Displayed prominently, this is the total weight of your I-beam in pounds (lbs).
Intermediate Values:
Weight per Foot: Shows the calculated weight of the beam for every linear foot.
Cross-sectional Area: Displays the area of the beam's profile in square inches (in²).
Volume: Shows the total volume of the beam in cubic feet (ft³).
Formula Explanation: A brief reminder of the calculation logic is provided below the results.
Decision-Making Guidance
Use the calculated weight for:
Structural Load Calculations: Integrate dead load calculations into your structural analysis.
Material Estimation: Accurately estimate steel quantities for bids and material orders.
Logistics Planning: Determine transportation needs, crane capacities, and installation procedures.
The "Reset" button clears all fields and restores default values, while "Copy Results" allows you to quickly paste the key figures elsewhere. Accurate I Beam Weight Calculation is made easy with this tool.
Key Factors That Affect I Beam Weight Results
While the basic formula for I Beam Weight Calculation is consistent, several factors can influence the final weight and its practical implications:
Beam Designation and Cross-Sectional Area: This is the most significant factor. Different designations (e.g., W10x22 vs. W10x49) represent beams with different flange and web thicknesses, resulting in vastly different cross-sectional areas and thus, weights. A W10x49 beam has a larger area and weighs more per foot than a W10x22.
Beam Length: Naturally, a longer beam of the same profile will weigh more. This is a direct linear relationship in the calculation.
Steel Density Variation: While typically standardized around 490 lbs/ft³, slight variations in steel alloys or manufacturing processes can lead to minor density differences. For highly precise calculations or exotic steel types, using the exact material density is important.
Manufacturing Tolerances: Steel mills have tolerances for dimensions and weight. A beam designated as W10x49 might vary slightly in actual weight from the nominal specification due to these acceptable manufacturing variations.
Coating or Fireproofing: The calculated weight is for the bare steel beam. In real-world applications, beams are often coated with paint, galvanization, or fireproofing materials. These add weight, which should be considered for critical load calculations or handling if significant.
Temperature Effects: While not directly impacting the *mass* calculation, extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the *strength* and *stiffness* of steel beams. This is more a consideration for structural integrity under load than for static weight determination, but engineers must account for thermal expansion and contraction.
Corrosion: Over time, steel can corrode, especially in harsh environments. This leads to a loss of material and therefore a reduction in weight, but more critically, it compromises the beam's structural capacity.
Understanding these factors ensures that the I Beam Weight Calculation is not just a number, but a basis for informed engineering decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the standard density of steel for I-beam calculations?
The standard density for structural steel is approximately 490 pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft³). This value is commonly used in I Beam Weight Calculation unless a specific alloy with a different density is specified.
How do I find the cross-sectional area for a specific I-beam type?
The cross-sectional area is intrinsic to the I-beam's designation (e.g., W12x40). You can find this information in standard steel construction manuals, AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) design guides, or often provided by steel manufacturers. Our calculator infers this area based on common designations.
Can I calculate the weight of I-beams made from materials other than steel?
Yes, you can, provided you know the exact density of that material. The formula remains the same: Volume × Density. You would simply input the correct material density in lbs/ft³ into the optional field.
What's the difference between W-beams, S-beams, and HP-beams?
W-beams (Wide Flange) are the most common, with parallel flange faces. S-beams (Standard I-beams) have sloped flange interiors. HP-beams are "H-piles" designed for bearing applications, having equal width and depth and uniform flange thickness. Their cross-sectional areas and weights differ significantly.
Does the calculator account for bolt holes or cutouts?
No, this calculator provides the weight for a standard, continuous I-beam. Bolt holes or cutouts reduce the beam's weight, but this effect is usually minor and often ignored unless precise calculations for very specific sections or weight-sensitive applications are required.
Why is accurate I beam weight important for structural engineers?
Engineers need accurate weight for calculating dead loads, which are fundamental to structural design. Overestimating weight can lead to an unnecessarily over-designed (and expensive) structure, while underestimating can compromise safety. It also impacts seismic load calculations and connection design.
How does the calculator handle imperial vs. metric units?
This calculator exclusively uses imperial units (feet for length, inches for area, pounds for weight, lbs/ft³ for density) as is standard in many structural engineering contexts. Metric conversions would require a separate tool or manual calculation.
What if my I-beam designation isn't recognized by the calculator?
If the calculator doesn't automatically infer the cross-sectional area, you should manually find the area for your specific beam profile from a reliable source (like an engineering handbook) and use the "Steel Density" field to input the correct weight per foot (Total Weight = Length x Weight per Foot). You'd calculate weight per foot as: (Area in in² / 144) * Density in lbs/ft³.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Steel Beam CalculatorExplore more advanced steel beam calculations, including stress and deflection analysis.
Structural Load CalculatorEstimate various types of loads (dead, live, wind) acting on structural elements.
Material Cost EstimatorCalculate the approximate cost of structural steel based on weight and market prices.
Engineering Fundamentals GuideA comprehensive resource covering basic principles of structural engineering and mechanics.
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function getCrossSectionalArea(beamType) {
var type = beamType.toUpperCase().trim();
var area = null;
if (type.startsWith('W')) { // Wide Flange
if (type === 'W4X13') area = 3.83;
else if (type === 'W6X9') area = 2.66;
else if (type === 'W6X12') area = 3.55;
else if (type === 'W6X15') area = 4.44;
else if (type === 'W6X20') area = 5.89;
else if (type === 'W6X25') area = 7.35;
else if (type === 'W8X10') area = 2.95;
else if (type === 'W8X13') area = 3.84;
else if (type === 'W8X15') area = 4.42;
else if (type === 'W8X19') area = 5.59;
else if (type === 'W8X21') area = 6.18;
else if (type === 'W8X24') area = 7.08;
else if (type === 'W8X28') area = 8.25;
else if (type === 'W8X31') area = 9.13;
else if (type === 'W8X35') area = 10.3;
else if (type === 'W8X40') area = 11.8;
else if (type === 'W8X48') area = 14.1;
else if (type === 'W8X58') area = 17.1;
else if (type === 'W8X67') area = 19.7;
else if (type === 'W10X12') area = 3.54;
else if (type === 'W10X15') area = 4.43;
else if (type === 'W10X17') area = 5.00;
else if (type === 'W10X19') area = 5.60;
else if (type === 'W10X21') area = 6.18;
else if (type === 'W10X22') area = 6.48;
else if (type === 'W10X26') area = 7.65;
else if (type === 'W10X30') area = 8.83;
else if (type === 'W10X33') area = 9.72;
else if (type === 'W10X39') area = 11.5;
else if (type === 'W10X45') area = 13.2;
else if (type === 'W10X49') area = 14.4;
else if (type === 'W10X54') area = 15.9;
else if (type === 'W10X57') area = 16.8;
else if (type === 'W10X60') area = 17.6;
else if (type === 'W10X68') area = 20.0;
else if (type === 'W10X77') area = 22.6;
else if (type === 'W10X88') area = 25.9;
else if (type === 'W10X98') area = 28.8;
else if (type === 'W12X14') area = 4.13;
else if (type === 'W12X16') area = 4.71;
else if (type === 'W12X19') area = 5.60;
else if (type === 'W12X22') area = 6.48;
else if (type === 'W12X26') area = 7.66;
else if (type === 'W12X30') area = 8.84;
else if (type === 'W12X35') area = 10.3;
else if (type === 'W12X40') area = 11.8;
else if (type === 'W12X45') area = 13.2;
else if (type === 'W12X48') area = 14.1;
else if (type === 'W12x53') area = 15.6;
else if (type === 'W12x58') area = 17.1;
else if (type === 'W12x65') area = 19.1;
else if (type === 'W12x72') area = 21.2;
else if (type === 'W12x79') area = 23.2;
else if (type === 'W12x85') area = 25.0;
else if (type === 'W12x90') area = 26.5;
else if (type === 'W12x96') area = 28.2;
else if (type === 'W12x106') area = 31.2;
else if (type === 'W12x113') area = 33.2;
else if (type === 'W12x130') area = 38.2;
else if (type === 'W12x137') area = 40.3;
else if (type === 'W12x154') area = 45.3;
else if (type === 'W12x165') area = 48.5;
else if (type === 'W12x170') area = 50.0;
else if (type === 'W14x22') area = 6.48;
else if (type === 'W14x26') area = 7.65;
else if (type === 'W14x30') area = 8.84;
else if (type === 'W14x34') area = 10.0;
else if (type === 'W14x38') area = 11.2;
else if (type === 'W14x43') area = 12.6;
else if (type === 'W14x48') area = 14.1;
else if (type === 'W14x53') area = 15.6;
else if (type === 'W14x61') area = 17.9;
else if (type === 'W14x68') area = 20.0;
else if (type === 'W14x74') area = 21.8;
else if (type === 'W14x82') area = 24.1;
else if (type === 'W14x90') area = 26.5;
else if (type === 'W14x99') area = 29.1;
else if (type === 'W14x109') area = 32.1;
else if (type === 'W14x114') area = 33.5;
else if (type === 'W14x120') area = 35.3;
else if (type === 'W14x136') area = 40.0;
else if (type === 'W14x145') area = 42.7;
else if (type === 'W14x158') area = 46.5;
else if (type === 'W14x176') area = 51.8;
else if (type === 'W14x193') area = 56.8;
else if (type === 'W14x211') area = 62.1;
else if (type === 'W14x233') area = 68.5;
else if (type === 'W14x247') area = 72.7;
else if (type === 'W14x257') area = 75.6;
else if (type === 'W14x267') area = 78.5;
else if (type === 'W14x283') area = 83.2;
else if (type === 'W14x299') area = 88.0;
else if (type === 'W14x311') area = 91.5;
else if (type === 'W14x320') area = 94.1;
else if (type === 'W14x342') area = 100.6;
else if (type === 'W14x370') area = 108.8;
else if (type === 'W14x398') area = 117.1;
else if (type === 'W14x426') area = 125.3;
else if (type === 'W14x455') area = 133.8;
else if (type === 'W14x484') area = 142.3;
else if (type === 'W14x513') area = 150.9;
else if (type === 'W14x543') area = 159.7;
else if (type === 'W14x573') area = 168.5;
else if (type === 'W14x603') area = 177.3;
else if (type === 'W14x633') area = 186.1;
else if (type === 'W14x661') area = 194.4;
else if (type === 'W14x695') area = 204.4;
else if (type === 'W16x45') area = 13.2;
else if (type === 'W16x57') area = 16.8;
else if (type === 'W16x67') area = 19.7;
else if (type === 'W16x77') area = 22.6;
else if (type === 'W16x88') area = 25.9;
else if (type === 'W16x99') area = 29.1;
else if (type === 'W16x100') area = 29.4;
else if (type === 'W16x112') area = 32.9;
else if (type === 'W16x125') area = 36.8;
else if (type === 'W16x138') area = 40.6;
else if (type === 'W16x148') area = 43.5;
else if (type === 'W16x152') area = 44.7;
else if (type === 'W16x168') area = 49.4;
else if (type === 'W16x179') area = 52.6;
else if (type === 'W16x190') area = 55.9;
else if (type === 'W16x204') area = 59.9;
else if (type === 'W16x224') area = 65.9;
else if (type === 'W16x240') area = 70.6;
else if (type === 'W16x254') area = 74.7;
else if (type === 'W16x275') area = 80.9;
else if (type === 'W16x296') area = 87.1;
else if (type === 'W16x312') area = 91.8;
else if (type === 'W18x35') area = 10.3;
else if (type === 'W18x40') area = 11.8;
else if (type === 'W18x47') area = 13.8;
else if (type === 'W18x50') area = 14.7;
else if (type === 'W18x55') area = 16.2;
else if (type === 'W18x60') area = 17.6;
else if (type === 'W18x65') area = 19.1;
else if (type === 'W18x71') area = 20.9;
else if (type === 'W18x76') area = 22.4;
else if (type === 'W18x82') area = 24.1;
else if (type === 'W18x97') area = 28.5;
else if (type === 'W18x106') area = 31.2;
else if (type === 'W18x119') area = 35.0;
else if (type === 'W18x130') area = 38.2;
else if (type === 'W18x139') area = 40.9;
else if (type === 'W18x145') area = 42.6;
else if (type === 'W18x157') area = 46.2;
else if (type === 'W18x167') area = 49.1;
else if (type === 'W18x180') area = 52.9;
else if (type === 'W18x190') area = 55.9;
else if (type === 'W18x202') area = 59.4;
else if (type === 'W18x215') area = 63.2;
else if (type === 'W18x234') area = 68.8;
else if (type === 'W18x245') area = 72.1;
else if (type === 'W18x257') area = 75.6;
else if (type === 'W20x40') area = 11.8;
else if (type === 'W20x46') area = 13.5;
else if (type === 'W20x50') area = 14.7;
else if (type === 'W20x55') area = 16.2;
else if (type === 'W20x65') area = 19.1;
else if (type === 'W20x71') area = 20.9;
else if (type === 'W20x77') area = 22.6;
else if (type === 'W20x82') area = 24.1;
else if (type === 'W20x90') area = 26.5;
else if (type === 'W20x100') area = 29.4;
else if (type === 'W20x107') area = 31.5;
else if (type === 'W20x114') area = 33.5;
else if (type === 'W20x122') area = 35.9;
else if (type === 'W20x127') area = 37.4;
else if (type === 'W20x134') area = 39.4;
else if (type === 'W20x142') area = 41.8;
else if (type === 'W20x148') area = 43.5;
else if (type === 'W20x154') area = 45.3;
else if (type === 'W20x170') area = 50.0;
else if (type === 'W20x190') area = 55.9;
else if (type === 'W20x200') area = 58.8;
else if (type === 'W21x44') area = 12.9;
else if (type === 'W21x50') area = 14.7;
else if (type === 'W21x57') area = 16.8;
else if (type === 'W21x62') area = 18.2;
else if (type === 'W21x68') area = 20.0;
else if (type === 'W21x73') area = 21.5;
else if (type === 'W21x83') area = 24.4;
else if (type === 'W21x93') area = 27.4;
else if (type === 'W21x100') area = 29.4;
else if (type === 'W21x107') area = 31.5;
else if (type === 'W21x115') area = 33.8;
else if (type === 'W21x122') area = 35.9;
else if (type === 'W21x132') area = 38.8;
else if (type === 'W21x142') area = 41.8;
else if (type === 'W21x153') area = 45.0;
else if (type === 'W21x164') area = 48.2;
else if (type === 'W21x174') area = 51.2;
else if (type === 'W21x184') area = 54.1;
else if (type === 'W21x194') area = 57.1;
else if (type === 'W21x204') area = 60.0;
else if (type === 'W21x223') area = 65.6;
else if (type === 'W21x234') area = 68.8;
else if (type === 'W21x246') area = 72.3;
else if (type === 'W21x259') area = 76.2;
else if (type === 'W21x273') area = 80.3;
else if (type === 'W24x50') area = 14.7;
else if (type === 'W24x55') area = 16.2;
else if (type === 'W24x62') area = 18.2;
else if (type === 'W24x68') area = 20.0;
else if (type === 'W24x74') area = 21.8;
else if (type === 'W24x80') area = 23.5;
else if (type === 'W24x86') area = 25.3;
else if (type === 'W24x94') area = 27.6;
else if (type === 'W24x103') area = 30.3;
else if (type === 'W24x107') area = 31.5;
else if (type === 'W24x117') area = 34.4;
else if (type === 'W24x130') area = 38.2;
else if (type === 'W24x145') area = 42.7;
else if (type === 'W24x160') area = 47.1;
else if (type === 'W24x176') area = 51.8;
else if (type === 'W24x192') area = 56.5;
else if (type === 'W24x207') area = 60.9;
else if (type === 'W24x229') area = 67.3;
else if (type === 'W24x250') area = 73.5;
else if (type === 'W24x267') area = 78.5;
else if (type === 'W24x279') area = 82.1;
else if (type === 'W24x294') area = 86.5;
else if (type === 'W24x335') area = 98.5;
else if (type === 'W24x356') area = 104.7;
else if (type === 'W24x377') area = 110.9;
else if (type === 'W24x401') area = 117.9;
else if (type === 'W24x425') area = 125.0;
else if (type === 'W24x450') area = 132.4;
else if (type === 'W24x473') area = 139.1;
else if (type === 'W24x499') area = 146.8;
else if (type === 'W24x525') area = 154.4;
else if (type === 'W24x550') area = 161.8;
else if (type === 'W24x575') area = 169.1;
else if (type === 'W24x600') area = 176.5;
else if (type === 'W24x625') area = 183.8;
else if (type === 'W24x650') area = 191.2;
else if (type === 'W24x680') area = 200.0;
else if (type === 'W27x84') area = 24.7;
else if (type === 'W27x94') area = 27.6;
else if (type === 'W27x102') area = 30.0;
else if (type === 'W27x114') area = 33.5;
else if (type === 'W27x129') area = 37.9;
else if (type === 'W27x145') area = 42.7;
else if (type === 'W27x165') area = 48.5;
else if (type === 'W27x178') area = 52.3;
else if (type === 'W27x198') area = 58.2;
else if (type === 'W27x219') area = 64.4;
else if (type === 'W27x237') area = 69.7;
else if (type === 'W27x258') area = 75.9;
else if (type === 'W27x279') area = 82.1;
else if (type === 'W27x316') area = 92.9;
else if (type === 'W27x349') area = 102.6;
else if (type === 'W27x371') area = 109.1;
else if (type === 'W27x403') area = 118.5;
else if (type === 'W27x435') area = 127.9;
else if (type === 'W30x90') area = 26.5;
else if (type === 'W30x99') area = 29.1;
else if (type === 'W30x108') area = 31.8;
else if (type === 'W30x116') area = 34.1;
else if (type === 'W30x124') area = 36.5;
else if (type === 'W30x132') area = 38.8;
else if (type === 'W30x141') area = 41.5;
else if (type === 'W30x152') area = 44.7;
else if (type === 'W30x161') area = 47.4;
else if (type === 'W30x173') area = 50.9;
else if (type === 'W30x191') area = 56.2;
else if (type === 'W30x210') area = 61.8;
else if (type === 'W30x235') area = 69.1;
else if (type === 'W30x253') area = 74.4;
else if (type === 'W30x269') area = 79.1;
else if (type === 'W30x287') area = 84.4;
else if (type === 'W30x305') area = 89.7;
else if (type === 'W33x118') area = 34.7;
else if (type === 'W33x130') area = 38.2;
else if (type === 'W33x141') area = 41.5;
else if (type === 'W33x152') area = 44.7;
else if (type === 'W33x169') area = 49.7;
else if (type === 'W33x183') area = 53.8;
else if (type === 'W33x194') area = 57.1;
else if (type === 'W33x207') area = 60.9;
else if (type === 'W33x225') area = 66.2;
else if (type === 'W33x240') area = 70.6;
else if (type === 'W33x250') area = 73.5;
else if (type === 'W33x260') area = 76.5;
else if (type === 'W33x281') area = 82.6;
else if (type === 'W33x311') area = 91.5;
else if (type === 'W33x341') area = 100.3;
else if (type === 'W33x374') area = 110.0;
else if (type === 'W33x403') area = 118.5;
else if (type === 'W33x420') area = 123.5;
else if (type === 'W33x437') area = 128.5;
else if (type === 'W36x150') area = 44.1;
else if (type === 'W36x170') area = 50.0;
else if (type === 'W36x184') area = 54.1;
else if (type === 'W36x194') area = 57.1;
else if (type === 'W36x210') area = 61.8;
else if (type === 'W36x230') area = 67.6;
else if (type === 'W36x245') area = 72.1;
else if (type === 'W36x256') area = 75.3;
else if (type === 'W36x260') area = 76.5;
else if (type === 'W36x282') area = 83.0;
else if (type === 'W36x300') area = 88.3;
else if (type === 'W36x316') area = 92.9;
else if (type === 'W36x330') area = 97.1;
else if (type === 'W36x350') area = 102.9;
else if (type === 'W36x370') area = 108.8;
else if (type === 'W36x390') area = 114.7;
else if (type === 'W36x401') area = 117.9;
else if (type === 'W36x420') area = 123.5;
else if (type === 'W36x455') area = 133.8;
else if (type === 'W36x480') area = 141.2;
else if (type === 'W36x500') area = 147.1;
else if (type === 'W36x525') area = 154.4;
} else if (type.startsWith('S')) { // Standard I-Beam
if (type === 'S3x5.7') area = 1.68;
else if (type === 'S3x7.5') area = 2.21;
else if (type === 'S4x7.7') area = 2.27;
else if (type === 'S4x9.5') area = 2.80;
else if (type === 'S4x13') area = 3.83;
else if (type === 'S5x10') area = 2.95;
else if (type === 'S5x12.5') area = 3.68;
else if (type === 'S5x15.1') area = 4.45;
else if (type === 'S5x18.1') area = 5.33;
else if (type === 'S6x12') area = 3.54;
else if (type === 'S6x15') area = 4.42;
else if (type === 'S6x17.5') area = 5.15;
else if (type === 'S6x20') area = 5.89;
else if (type === 'S6x25') area = 7.35;
else if (type === 'S7x14.9') area = 4.39;
else if (type === 'S7x19') area = 5.59;
else if (type === 'S7x22') area = 6.48;
else if (type === 'S8x17.3') area = 5.09;
else if (type === 'S8x18.4') area = 5.42;
else if (type === 'S8x23') area = 6.77;
else if (type === 'S8x28') area = 8.25;
else if (type === 'S8x31') area = 9.13;
else if (type === 'S9x19.8') area = 5.83;
else if (type === 'S9x22.4') area = 6.60;
else if (type === 'S9x26') area = 7.66;
else if (type === 'S9x30') area = 8.84;
else if (type === 'S9x35') area = 10.3;
else if (type === 'S10x21') area = 6.18;
else if (type === 'S10x25') area = 7.35;
else if (type === 'S10x30') area = 8.84;
else if (type === 'S10x35') area = 10.3;
else if (type === 'S10x40') area = 11.8;
else if (type === 'S10x45') area = 13.2;
else if (type === 'S12x31') area = 9.13;
else if (type === 'S12x35') area = 10.3;
else if (type === 'S12x40') area = 11.8;
else if (type === 'S12x45') area = 13.2;
else if (type === 'S12x50') area = 14.7;
else if (type === 'S12x53') area = 15.6;
} else if (type.startsWith('HP')) { // Bearing Piles
if (type === 'HP6x17') area = 5.00;
else if (type === 'HP6x22') area = 6.48;
else if (type === 'HP6x26') area = 7.66;
else if (type === 'HP8x36') area = 10.6;
else if (type === 'HP8x42') area = 12.4;
else if (type === 'HP8x48') area = 14.1;
else if (type === 'HP8x53') area = 15.6;
else if (type === 'HP10x42') area = 12.4;
else if (type === 'HP10x57') area = 16.8;
else if (type === 'HP10x60') area = 17.6;
else if (type === 'HP10x77') area = 22.6;
else if (type === 'HP10x80') area = 23.5;
else if (type === 'HP12x53') area = 15.6;
else if (type === 'HP12x63') area = 18.5;
else if (type === 'HP12x74') area = 21.8;
else if (type === 'HP12x84') area = 24.7;
else if (type === 'HP12x92') area = 27.1;
else if (type === 'HP12x102') area = 30.0;
else if (type === 'HP12x106') area = 31.2;
else if (type === 'HP12x110') area = 32.4;
else if (type === 'HP12x130') area = 38.2;
else if (type === 'HP12x142') area = 41.8;
else if (type === 'HP12x153') area = 45.0;
else if (type === 'HP12x160') area = 47.1;
else if (type === 'HP12x170') area = 50.0;
}
if (area !== null) {
return area;
} else {
// Fallback or error for unrecognized types
return null;
}
}
function calculateWeight() {
var beamType = getElement('beamType').value;
var beamLength = parseFloat(getElement('beamLength').value);
var steelDensityInput = getElement('steelDensity').value;
var density = steelDensityInput === " ? 490 : parseFloat(steelDensityInput); // Default to 490 lbs/ft³
var area = getCrossSectionalArea(beamType);
var isValid = true;
isValid = validateInput('beamType', 'beamTypeError', null, null, true) && isValid;
isValid = validateInput('beamLength', 'beamLengthError', 0.1, null, true) && isValid;
if (steelDensityInput !== ") {
isValid = validateInput('steelDensity', 'steelDensityError', 1, null, false) && isValid;
}
if (!area) {
getElement('beamTypeError').textContent = 'I-Beam type not recognized. Please enter a standard designation (W, S, HP).';
getElement('beamTypeError').style.display = 'block';
isValid = false;
}
if (isValid) {
var volume = (area / 144) * beamLength;
var weightPerFoot = (area / 144) * density;
var totalWeight = volume * density;
getElement('weightPerFoot').innerHTML = 'Weight per Foot: ' + weightPerFoot.toFixed(2) + ' lbs/ft';
getElement('crossSectionalArea').innerHTML = 'Cross-sectional Area: ' + area.toFixed(2) + ' in²';
getElement('volume').innerHTML = 'Volume: ' + volume.toFixed(2) + ' ft³';
getElement('totalWeight').textContent = totalWeight.toFixed(2) + ' lbs';
// Update chart data
updateChart(beamLength, weightPerFoot, totalWeight);
} else {
getElement('totalWeight').textContent = '– lbs';
getElement('weightPerFoot').innerHTML = 'Weight per Foot: — lbs/ft';
getElement('crossSectionalArea').innerHTML = 'Cross-sectional Area: — in²';
getElement('volume').innerHTML = 'Volume: — ft³';
}
}
function resetCalculator() {
getElement('beamType').value = 'W10x49';
getElement('beamLength').value = '10';
getElement('steelDensity').value = "; // Clear optional field to use default
getElement('beamTypeError').textContent = ";
getElement('beamTypeError').style.display = 'none';
getElement('beamLengthError').textContent = ";
getElement('beamLengthError').style.display = 'none';
getElement('steelDensityError').textContent = ";
getElement('steelDensityError').style.display = 'none';
calculateWeight(); // Recalculate with default values
}
function copyResults() {
var totalWeight = getElement('totalWeight').textContent;
var weightPerFoot = getElement('weightPerFoot').textContent;
var crossSectionalArea = getElement('crossSectionalArea').textContent;
var volume = getElement('volume').textContent;
var beamType = getElement('beamType').value;
var beamLength = getElement('beamLength').value;
var steelDensity = getElement('steelDensity').value === " ? 'Standard (490 lbs/ft³)' : getElement('steelDensity').value + ' lbs/ft³';
var resultsText = "I-Beam Weight Calculation Results:\n\n";
resultsText += "Beam Type: " + beamType + "\n";
resultsText += "Beam Length: " + beamLength + " ft\n";
resultsText += "Steel Density: " + steelDensity + "\n\n";
resultsText += "Total Weight: " + totalWeight + "\n";
resultsText += weightPerFoot + "\n";
resultsText += crossSectionalArea + "\n";
resultsText += volume + "\n";
resultsText += "\nFormula Used: Weight = Length × (Area / 144) × Density";
navigator.clipboard.writeText(resultsText).then(function() {
var button = event.target;
button.textContent = 'Copied!';
setTimeout(function() {
button.textContent = 'Copy Results';
}, 2000);
}).catch(function(err) {
console.error('Failed to copy results: ', err);
alert('Failed to copy results. Please copy manually.');
});
}
// Charting Logic
var weightChart;
var chartCanvas = getElement('weightChart');
function initializeChart() {
if (chartCanvas) {
var ctx = chartCanvas.getContext('2d');
weightChart = new Chart(ctx, {
type: 'line',
data: {
labels: [], // Lengths
datasets: [{
label: 'Weight per Foot (lbs/ft)',
data: [], // Weight per Foot values
borderColor: 'rgba(0, 74, 153, 1)', // Primary color
backgroundColor: 'rgba(0, 74, 153, 0.2)',
fill: false,
tension: 0.1
}, {
label: 'Total Weight (lbs)',
data: [], // Total Weight values
borderColor: 'rgba(40, 167, 69, 1)', // Success color
backgroundColor: 'rgba(40, 167, 69, 0.2)',
fill: false,
tension: 0.1
}]
},
options: {
responsive: true,
maintainAspectRatio: false,
scales: {
x: {
title: {
display: true,
labelString: 'Beam Length (ft)'
}
},
y: {
title: {
display: true,
labelString: 'Weight (lbs)'
}
}
},
plugins: {
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Beam Weight vs. Length'
}
}
}
});
}
}
function updateChart(currentLength, currentWeightPerFoot, currentTotalWeight) {
if (!weightChart || !chartCanvas) return;
var data = weightChart.data;
var lengths = [0, currentLength];
var weightsPerFoot = [0, currentWeightPerFoot];
var totalWeights = [0, currentTotalWeight];
// Add a few more points for better visualization if needed, e.g., halfway point
if (currentLength > 0) {
lengths.splice(1, 0, currentLength / 2);
weightsPerFoot.splice(1, 0, currentWeightPerFoot / 2);
totalWeights.splice(1, 0, currentTotalWeight / 2);
}
// Ensure lengths are unique and sorted for x-axis consistency if multiple updates happen rapidly
var uniqueLengths = Array.from(new Set(lengths)).sort((a, b) => a – b);
var processedWeightsPerFoot = [];
var processedTotalWeights = [];
uniqueLengths.forEach(function(len) {
if (len === 0) {
processedWeightsPerFoot.push(0);
processedTotalWeights.push(0);
} else if (len === currentLength) {
processedWeightsPerFoot.push(currentWeightPerFoot);
processedTotalWeights.push(currentTotalWeight);
} else if (len === currentLength / 2) {
processedWeightsPerFoot.push(currentWeightPerFoot / 2);
processedTotalWeights.push(currentTotalWeight / 2);
}
});
data.labels = uniqueLengths.map(function(len) { return len.toFixed(1); });
data.datasets[0].data = processedWeightsPerFoot;
data.datasets[1].data = processedTotalWeights;
weightChart.update();
}
// Initialize chart on load
document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() {
// Manually create a canvas element if it doesn't exist, for demo purposes
// In a real WP theme, you'd ensure the canvas exists in the HTML.
if (!getElement('weightChart')) {
var canvas = document.createElement('canvas');
canvas.id = 'weightChart';
canvas.style.height = '300px'; // Set a default height
getElement('results').parentNode.insertBefore(canvas, getElement('results').nextSibling);
}
initializeChart();
calculateWeight(); // Calculate initial values on load
// Toggle FAQ answers
var faqQuestions = document.querySelectorAll('.faq-item .question');
faqQuestions.forEach(function(q) {
q.addEventListener('click', function() {
var answer = this.nextElementSibling;
this.classList.toggle('active');
answer.classList.toggle('visible');
});
});
});