The W21x73 is a W-shape steel beam reference entry containing the section dimensions, material-area information, unit weight, and a DWG download. Use the data below when identifying the shape in structural drawings, preliminary detailing, or CAD workflows.
This page is a dimensional reference, not a substitute for project-specific engineering. For design work, verify the applicable specification, material requirements, loads, connection details, stability conditions, and fabrication constraints 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 : 538.5 mm
Width : 210.8 mm
Web Thickness : 11.6 mm
Flange Thickness : 18.8 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 12.7 mm
Sectional Area : 138.71 cm2
Unit Weight : 108.9 kg/m
How to read the W21x73 reference
The listed properties describe the overall geometry and basic quantity information for this W shape. Depth and width identify the principal envelope of the section. Web thickness describes the central portion of the shape, while flange thickness describes the projecting top and bottom elements. The root fillet radius represents the curved transition between web and flange and should be considered when preparing accurate details or checking clearances.
Sectional area is an area property used in steel quantity and engineering calculations. Unit weight expresses the mass of the section per unit length. These terms should not be treated as interchangeable: area and unit weight serve different purposes in estimating, analysis, and detailing.
W21x73 reference checklist
- Shape family: W beam.
- Reference basis: AISC 360-16, as identified in the source entry.
- Geometry to check: depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, and root fillet radius.
- Quantity properties: sectional area and unit weight.
- Drafting resource: the linked DWG file can support CAD coordination and drawing development.
Using the DWG in a drafting workflow
Before inserting the W21x73 DWG into a project, confirm the drawing units, layer conventions, insertion scale, orientation, and any required project standards. Treat the downloaded geometry as a reference aid and compare it with the authoritative section data before issuing fabrication or construction documents.
For related topics, connect this reference to internal resources covering W-shape terminology, steel section properties, structural steel connections, and CAD/DWG detailing practices.
W21x73 frequently asked questions
What does W21x73 mean?
W21x73 identifies a W-shape steel beam designation. The source entry provides the corresponding geometry, sectional area, and unit weight for this shape.
Which specification is referenced for the W21x73 data?
The entry refers to the American Institute of Steel Construction specification identified as AISC 360-16. Confirm the governing project requirements before using any reference data for design or fabrication.
What information is provided for the W21x73?
The reference lists depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight. It also provides access to a DWG download.
Can the W21x73 DWG be used directly for construction?
The DWG is a drafting reference. Review its units, scale, orientation, and project-specific requirements, and verify the geometry against the authoritative section data before using it in issued documents.
Are the listed dimensions sufficient for structural design?
No. Section dimensions and basic properties are only part of a complete design check. Loads, restraints, material requirements, connections, stability, applicable specifications, and other project conditions must also be evaluated by a qualified engineer.
