The W21x55 is a wide-flange structural steel section identified in the source as a W beam. This reference brings together its listed geometric dimensions, sectional area, unit weight, and the AISC specification context used for structural steel design and fabrication.
Use the data below as a section-reference starting point, then verify design assumptions, material requirements, connection details, and project specifications before using the shape in engineering work. For broader comparison, see the W-shapes reference and related steel section properties 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 : 528.3 mm
Width : 208.8 mm
Web Thickness : 9.5 mm
Flange Thickness : 13.3 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 12.6 mm
Sectional Area : 104.52 cm2
Unit Weight : 82 kg/m
How to read the W21x55 reference
The listed depth and width describe the overall envelope of the section. Web thickness applies to the central web, while flange thickness describes the projecting top and bottom elements. The root fillet radius identifies the curved transition between the web and each flange; this area matters when checking clearances, detailing connections, and interpreting profile drawings.
Sectional area is a geometric quantity used in steel-section calculations, while unit weight expresses the mass of the section per unit length. These properties support estimating material quantities and preparing preliminary coordination information, but they do not by themselves establish strength, stability, deflection performance, or allowable use in a particular structure.
AISC context and drafting use
The source refers to the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360-16). That specification provides the design, fabrication, and erection framework identified in the source; it should be read together with the applicable project documents and engineering checks rather than treated as a substitute for design verification. See the site’s steel connections and detailing guidance for related coordination topics.
The downloadable DWG can help with CAD coordination and profile-based drafting. Before insertion into a project drawing, confirm units, scale, layer conventions, orientation, and the required level of detailing. The drawing should be checked against the authoritative dimensions shown in this reference.
W21x55 FAQ
What type of steel section is W21x55?
W21x55 is identified as a W beam, also called a wide-flange section. Its geometry consists of two flanges connected by a web.
What do the listed W21x55 dimensions describe?
The reference lists the overall depth and width, web thickness, flange thickness, and root fillet radius. Together, these describe the section’s principal profile geometry.
Can the listed properties be used to select the beam for a project?
They can support reference, estimating, and preliminary coordination, but beam selection requires project-specific engineering checks, material information, loading, stability considerations, connection design, and applicable code requirements.
What is the W21x55 DWG used for?
The DWG is intended as a drafting and CAD reference. Check its units, scale, and geometry against the section data before using it in project documentation.
