Steel Beam Identification (Resolved: European)

[SinStrucEng]

Good day everyone,

[Ontario, Canada] Client has a steel beam above the garage supporting the second floor above. The roof, above the second floor, is trussed and loads the outer walls. The steel beam has a post at each end with a third in the middle of the span. Total beam length is 20' 2".

The Client wishes to remove the middle post and we are trying to assess if the beam can be reinforced by welding steel sections to it (rather than a complete replacement). Trouble is, we are having difficulties determining the existing beam spec. We have checked all sizes but they don't line up with known (to us) sections. We have accounted for a margin of error in the measurements when trying to match it to a section, but even then, they don't remotely line up with anything. Beam is supposedly only ~30 years old so not too out there in terms of age. Checked all S sections and even W sections but still nothing. Measurements completed with calipers and in millimeters. See attached sketch and pictures.

Any idea?

 

[XR250]

Just calculate the section properties based on your measurements. It does not have to be perfect.

 

[SinStrucEng]

Just calculate the section properties based on your measurements. It does not have to be perfect.

Agreed it's not a problem for the calcs, just curious now

 

[XR250]

Seems pretty stout for the existing span. Could be some old recycled beam.

 

[SinStrucEng]

Seems pretty stout for the existing span. Could be some old recycled beam.

Fails spectacularly (obviously) without the central post and doesn't seem to be economical to make it work. Replacement appears best option now. Thanks anyways @XR250

 

[SinStrucEng]

@XR250 The mystery is solved! It's a European beam. Have any idea why a European beam would be installed in a Canadian home (in the middle of a development)? This isn't even a custom home, part of a track of 12 or so. Very fascinating.