The W21x132 is a W-shaped structural steel section identified by its nominal depth and weight designation. This reference page preserves the supplied section data and adds practical context for engineers, detailers, fabricators, and CAD users.
Use the dimensional information below as a section-identification reference. Design applications still require the applicable project criteria, material requirements, connection details, and verification by a qualified 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 : 553.7 mm
Width : 315 mm
Web Thickness : 16.5 mm
Flange Thickness : 26.4 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 12.7 mm
Sectional Area : 250.32 cm2
Unit Weight : 196.5 kg/m
How to read the W21x132 reference
The listed depth and width describe the overall envelope of the rolled shape. Web thickness and flange thickness help distinguish the principal elements of the section and are commonly needed when reviewing detailing clearances, connection layouts, and section geometry.
The root fillet radius identifies the curved transition between the web and flange. This area is important when interpreting drawings, checking fit-up, and locating dimensions from a rolled steel shape. Do not treat the nominal shape designation as a substitute for the dimensional data provided in the source content.
Sectional area and unit weight
Sectional area describes the steel area visible in a cut through the member and is used in engineering calculations involving the section. The listed unit weight expresses the member’s mass per unit length. These properties should be kept distinct from strength, stiffness, buckling resistance, and connection capacity, which depend on additional design information and verification.
AISC reference and DWG workflow
The source identifies AISC 16, including the American Institute of Steel Construction Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360-16). Treat that reference as the stated specification context for this page; confirm project requirements and applicable documents before using the section in design or fabrication.
The downloadable DWG file can support preliminary drafting and coordination. Before issuing drawings, compare the CAD geometry with the authoritative dimensions on this page and apply the project’s required detailing conventions. Related SteelSTD references for W shapes, steel section properties, AISC terminology, and steel connection detailing provide useful next steps for review.
W21x132 frequently asked questions
What does W21x132 mean?
It identifies a W-shaped structural steel member using the W-shape designation and the nominal section designation used by the referenced steel-shape system. The full dimensional information is provided in the source content.
What is the difference between web thickness and flange thickness?
Web thickness describes the thickness of the central vertical element, while flange thickness describes the thickness of the horizontal elements. Both are section-geometry dimensions and should be read together with the listed width, depth, and root fillet radius.
What is the DWG file used for?
The DWG download is intended as a CAD reference for drafting and coordination. It should be checked against the source dimensions before it is used in issued construction or fabrication documents.
Does the W21x132 designation alone confirm structural capacity?
No. Capacity depends on the design situation, material, span, loads, bracing, limit states, connections, and applicable project requirements. A qualified engineer must verify the member for its intended use.
