The W18x46 is a wide-flange steel beam reference for engineers, detailers, fabricators, and CAD users working with structural steel shapes. This page provides the source dimensions and basic identification data alongside an AISC-related reference for the W-shape.
Use the dimensional information when reviewing framing layouts, checking clearances, preparing connection details, or coordinating drawings. For related terminology and comparison work, connect this page with the site’s W-shapes reference, steel section properties, and structural steel terminology resources.
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 : 459.7 mm
Width : 153.9 mm
Web Thickness : 9.1 mm
Flange Thickness : 15.4 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 10.3 mm
Sectional Area : 87.1 cm2
Unit Weight : 68.4 kg/m
How to read the W18x46 reference
The source identifies this member as a W beam and lists its principal geometric and mass-related data. The depth and width describe the overall section envelope, while web thickness and flange thickness describe the primary plate elements that form the shape.
Geometry and section data
- Root fillet radius: describes the curved transition between the web and flange. This detail can matter when checking clearances, detailing connections, or interpreting fabrication drawings.
- Sectional area: represents the cross-sectional area of the steel shape and is reported separately from its dimensions.
- Unit weight: expresses the listed mass per unit length, which is useful for estimating member mass and coordinating handling or material takeoffs.
AISC and CAD reference context
The source cites the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360-16), identified as the 2016 edition. That reference provides the broader design, fabrication, and erection framework; this page’s local dimensional data should remain the controlling reference for the values shown here.
A DWG download is provided for drafting and modeling workflows. Before using the file in a project, verify units, layer conventions, orientation, and project-specific detailing requirements. A CAD profile is a drawing aid and does not replace engineering checks for member selection, stability, connections, fabrication, or code compliance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the W18x46?
W18x46 is the designation of the W beam listed on this page. The source provides its dimensions, sectional area, unit weight, and related geometric information.
What information is listed for the W18x46?
The reference includes depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight. These values should be read directly from the existing source data.
What does the AISC reference mean on this page?
The page refers to the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360-16), which establishes requirements and guidance for structural steel design, fabrication, and erection. The applicable project edition and engineering requirements should always be confirmed by the responsible design professional.
Is the W18x46 DWG ready for structural design?
The DWG is intended to support CAD, drafting, and coordination tasks. It should not be treated as a substitute for verified design calculations, connection design, fabrication review, or project-specific engineering documentation.
