The W12x65 is a structural W beam profile used as a reference shape in steel design and detailing. This page presents the listed geometry, sectional area, unit weight, and CAD download information without replacing project-specific engineering checks.
Use the dimensional data below when reviewing drawings, comparing steel sections, or coordinating a model with a steel shape library. For design work, confirm material specifications, loads, stability, connections, and applicable project requirements with the responsible engineer.
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 : 307.3 mm
Width : 304.8 mm
Web Thickness : 9.9 mm
Flange Thickness : 15.4 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 15.1 mm
Sectional Area : 123.23 cm2
Unit Weight : 96.7 kg/m
How to read the W12x65 reference
The W designation identifies the profile as a W beam, commonly described as a wide-flange shape. The listed depth and width describe the overall section envelope, while web thickness and flange thickness describe the principal plate elements of the rolled shape.
The root fillet radius represents the curved transition between the web and flange. This detail matters when interpreting drawings, checking clearances, and coordinating connections or fit-up around the beam-to-column region.
Sectional area and unit weight
Sectional area is a geometric property used in steel quantity calculations and in engineering checks where the material area is required. Unit weight expresses the mass of the shape per unit length and is useful for estimating framing weight, transportation quantities, and gravity-load inputs. These values should be taken from the source data shown on this page.
Reference and CAD use
The source identifies AISC 360-16 as the governing specification reference for structural steel buildings. Treat that reference as design context rather than as a substitute for the complete specification, project criteria, or engineering review.
The downloadable DWG can support drafting and CAD coordination. Before using the drawing for fabrication or construction, verify its units, layer conventions, insertion orientation, and compatibility with the project’s controlled shape library.
Related SteelSTD topics
This profile can be reviewed alongside resources on W-shape terminology, steel section properties, connection and detailing concepts, and structural steel CAD references. These topics help connect a shape designation with the geometry and documentation practices used in real projects.
W12x65 frequently asked questions
What type of section is W12x65?
W12x65 is identified as a W beam, or wide-flange structural steel shape. The page lists its principal dimensions and section data for reference.
What do the depth and width describe?
Depth and width describe the overall envelope of the steel section. Web thickness, flange thickness, and root fillet radius provide additional geometric information for detailing and coordination.
Can the DWG be used directly for fabrication?
The DWG is a drafting and CAD reference. Confirm its scale, units, geometry, and project controls before relying on it for fabrication or construction documentation.
Does the listed unit weight complete a structural design?
No. Unit weight supports quantity and load-estimation work, but structural design also requires project loads, material requirements, stability checks, connection design, and engineering verification.
