The W16x36 is a W-shape steel section identified by its nominal designation. This reference lists the section dimensions and source-provided properties for use in preliminary research, detailing, estimating, and CAD workflows.
Use the dimensional data below together with related references on W-shape terminology, steel section properties, structural steel connections, and CAD/DWG resources. The listed properties should be checked against the governing project documents and verified by the responsible engineer before design use.
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 : 403.9 mm
Width : 177.5 mm
Web Thickness : 7.5 mm
Flange Thickness : 10.9 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 10.2 mm
Sectional Area : 68.39 cm2
Unit Weight : 53.7 kg/m
How to read the W16x36 reference
The dimensions describe the overall section geometry and the thickness of its principal elements. Depth refers to the overall vertical dimension, while width describes the flange-to-flange dimension. Web and flange thicknesses identify the thickness of the central web and the horizontal flanges.
The root fillet radius describes the curved transition between the web and each flange. This detail matters when modeling the profile accurately, checking clearances, or preparing connection and fabrication drawings.
Sectional area and unit weight
Sectional area is a geometric property of the steel cross-section. It is commonly used with material density and member length when estimating steel quantity or evaluating axial-force-related calculations. The listed unit weight is expressed as mass per unit length and is useful for preliminary material takeoffs and dead-load assessments.
Neither the section designation nor the tabulated properties alone establishes a member’s allowable capacity. Capacity depends on material specification, unbraced length, support conditions, connection details, load effects, stability, and the applicable design requirements.
Reference standard and CAD workflow
The source identifies AISC 360-16, the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings, as the reference context for design, fabrication, and erection information. Consult the governing specification, project criteria, and approved structural drawings for final decisions.
A DWG file is provided with this reference for drafting and digital modeling workflows. Review the downloaded geometry before placing it in production documents, especially where fillets, units, layer conventions, or connection clearances affect the drawing.
Frequently asked questions
What does W16x36 mean?
It is the designation of a wide-flange, or W-shape, steel section. The designation identifies the section family and its nominal size and weight designation; the detailed source properties on this page should be used for the actual profile information.
What information is provided for the W16x36?
The reference provides overall dimensions, web and flange thicknesses, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight.
Can the listed properties be used to select a beam for a project?
They can support preliminary research and calculations, but they do not replace a complete structural design check. Member selection requires project-specific loads, spans, restraints, material requirements, connection design, and engineering review.
Is a CAD file available?
Yes. The page includes a DWG download associated with the W16x36 reference. Confirm the file’s units and geometry before incorporating it into a project drawing or model.
Which standard is associated with this reference?
The source identifies AISC 360-16 as the reference specification context. Always confirm the edition and requirements required by the project or authority having jurisdiction.












