The W12x40 is a wide-flange structural steel shape identified by its W-shape designation. This reference provides the listed section dimensions, material quantity indicators, and a CAD download for drafting workflows.
Use the dimensional data below when coordinating steel framing layouts, connection details, shop drawings, or preliminary section comparisons. For related terminology, see the site’s references on W shapes, section properties, and steel connection detailing.
W Beam
refer to : AISC 16
the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360-16), which is the 2016 edition of the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings. It provides guidelines and requirements for the design, fabrication, and erection of steel structures in the United States.
Depth : 302.3 mm
Width : 203.5 mm
Web Thickness : 7.5 mm
Flange Thickness : 13.1 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 12.8 mm
Sectional Area : 75.48 cm2
Unit Weight : 59.3 kg/m
How to read the W12x40 reference
The listed depth and width describe the overall section envelope, while web thickness and flange thickness describe the principal plate elements that form the shape. The root fillet radius identifies the transition between the web and flange; this region can affect detailing, clearances, and how dimensions are interpreted in drawings.
Sectional area is useful for comparing the amount of steel in a shape and for engineering calculations that depend on the cross-sectional area. Unit weight expresses the listed mass per unit length, which is useful for estimating handling, shipping, and framing quantities. Keep the source units consistent when transferring these values into calculations or schedules.
CAD and design workflow
The linked DWG file can support layout and drafting work, but a CAD profile should be checked against the project’s governing steel reference before it is used for fabrication or construction documentation. Confirm orientation, units, connection clearances, and any required detailing conventions.
These dimensions alone do not establish member capacity or design adequacy. Structural checks should account for the applicable specification, steel material, loading, support conditions, stability, connections, and project-specific requirements. Related internal resources may include steel design terminology, section property guides, and structural steel drawing practices.
W12x40 FAQ
What does W12x40 identify?
It identifies a W-shaped, or wide-flange, structural steel section. The exact dimensions and properties for this reference are provided in the source data on this page.
What do the web and flange thicknesses describe?
They describe the thickness of the two primary parts of the section: the central web and the projecting flanges. These values help users interpret the profile for drafting, detailing, and section comparison.
What is the listed unit weight used for?
Unit weight is a mass-per-length reference. It can support quantity takeoffs and logistics estimates, but it should not be treated as a substitute for a complete structural design check.
Is the W12x40 DWG ready for fabrication?
The DWG is provided as a drafting reference. Verify its units, geometry, orientation, and project requirements before incorporating it into fabrication or construction documents.
Does this page provide the design capacity of the W12x40?
No. Design capacity depends on the governing specification, material, loads, boundary conditions, stability, connections, and other project inputs. An engineer should verify the section for its intended use.
