The W16x40 is a wide-flange structural steel shape identified by its nominal designation. This reference brings together the source dimensions and properties for checking shape geometry, preparing drawings, and coordinating steel framing information.
Use the technical values below as the authoritative local reference for this page. For design work, confirm the applicable project requirements, material specification, loading, connection conditions, and governing design provisions 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 : 406.4 mm
Width : 177.8 mm
Web Thickness : 7.7 mm
Flange Thickness : 12.8 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 10.2 mm
Sectional Area : 76.13 cm2
Unit Weight : 59.8 kg/m
How to read the W16x40 reference
The listed depth and width describe the overall envelope of the rolled section. Web thickness refers to the central vertical element, while flange thickness describes the thickness of the projecting top and bottom elements. The root fillet radius identifies the transition between the web and each flange and is important when detailing plates, coping, bolts, welds, or other components near the flange-to-web junction.
Sectional area is a geometric property used in calculations such as axial resistance and weight estimation. Unit weight supports material takeoffs, handling discussions, and preliminary framing estimates. These values do not, by themselves, establish allowable capacity or confirm suitability for a particular member application.
Design and drafting context
When using this shape in a model or drawing, keep the section designation consistent across plans, elevations, schedules, connection details, and fabrication documents. Check the orientation of the web and flanges before applying offsets or detailing supported members. The DWG resource linked on this page can help with drafting and coordination, but the downloaded geometry should be checked against the authoritative tabulated data before it is used for engineering decisions.
For related research, connect this page to the site’s references for W shapes, steel section properties, AISC terminology, steel connections, and structural steel drafting. Those topics provide useful context without replacing project-specific engineering verification.
Limits of the tabulated reference
A shape listing is not a complete member design. Axial, flexural, shear, stability, slenderness, connection, serviceability, fire, and erection considerations may all affect the final selection. Apply the governing project criteria and applicable AISC requirements rather than relying on the designation or dimensions alone.
Frequently asked questions
What does W16x40 mean?
It is the designation used for this W, or wide-flange, structural steel shape. The source table provides the corresponding geometry and reference properties.
What information is provided for the W16x40?
The reference lists depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight. It also provides a DWG download for drafting reference.
Can the listed unit weight be used for a material takeoff?
It can support a preliminary takeoff when combined with verified member lengths and project documentation. Confirm the final quantity against the approved drawings, procurement information, and applicable fabrication requirements.
Does the W16x40 designation prove that the section is adequate?
No. Adequacy depends on the structural system, loads, unbraced conditions, material requirements, limit states, connections, and other project-specific criteria. A qualified engineer must verify the selection.
Which standard is referenced on this page?
The source identifies the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings, AISC 360-16, described as the 2016 edition. Confirm the governing edition and project requirements before design or detailing.
