What is the main visible difference between a W-shape and an S-shape of the same depth?
- The S-shape has wider flanges with parallel inner surfaces
- The S-shape has a single flange and the W-shape has two
- The S-shape has narrower flanges with sloped inner surfaces
- The S-shape is always lighter per foot than the W-shape
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C. The S-shape has narrower flanges with sloped inner surfaces
S-shapes (American Standard beams) have relatively narrow flanges whose inside faces taper. W-shapes have wider flanges with essentially parallel faces, which makes bolting and fit-up easier.
Reference: AISC Steel Construction Manual, Part 1: W-shapes and S-shapes
A bill of material lists L4x3x1/4. What is it?
- A plate 4 in. wide, 3 in. long and 1/4 in. thick
- An angle 4 in. long with 3 in. legs, 1/4 in. thick
- A channel 4 in. deep with 3 in. flanges, 1/4 in. web
- An angle with 4 in. and 3 in. legs, 1/4 in. thick
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D. An angle with 4 in. and 3 in. legs, 1/4 in. thick
L designates an angle, written as long leg x short leg x thickness. Length is listed separately. Channels are designated C or MC with depth and weight per foot.
Reference: AISC Steel Construction Manual, Part 1: angle designations
A member is called out as C10x15.3. What is it?
- A channel 10 in. wide and 15.3 in. deep
- A column 10 in. square weighing 15.3 lb per foot
- A channel 10 in. deep weighing 15.3 lb per foot
- A cold-formed zee 10 in. deep and 15.3 ft long
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C. A channel 10 in. deep weighing 15.3 lb per foot
C is the American Standard channel, designated by depth in inches and weight per foot, the same pattern as W and S shapes.
Reference: AISC Steel Construction Manual, Part 1: channel designations