The W27x281 is a W-shape structural steel section identified by its nominal designation. This reference records the source dimensions, sectional area, unit weight, and related terminology for use in steel design, detailing, estimating, and CAD workflows.
Use the values in the reference data below as the controlling local information. For design work, confirm material requirements, load effects, connection details, and applicable project criteria 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 : 744.2 mm
Width : 365.8 mm
Web Thickness : 26.9 mm
Flange Thickness : 49 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 20.1 mm
Sectional Area : 536.13 cm2
Unit Weight : 420.9 kg/m
How to read the W27x281 reference
The listed depth and width describe the overall section envelope. Web thickness refers to the central vertical element, while flange thickness describes the thickness of the top and bottom flange elements. The root fillet radius identifies the curved transition between the web and each flange; this region matters when interpreting detailing, clearances, and modeled geometry.
Sectional area and unit weight
Sectional area is a geometric property used in calculations such as axial resistance, material takeoff, and mass estimation. Unit weight expresses the listed mass per unit length and can support preliminary quantity checks, shipping estimates, and framing weight summaries. These values do not replace the section properties or resistance checks required for a complete structural design.
AISC context and drafting use
The source identifies AISC 360-16, the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings, as the reference context for design, fabrication, and erection requirements. AISC references should be read together with the project specifications and the engineer’s selected design method; a shape designation alone does not establish capacity or suitability for a particular member location.
A DWG download is provided for drawing and coordination workflows. Before issuing a drawing, check the imported geometry, units, layer conventions, orientation, and connection interfaces against the governing project documents. Related SteelSTD references on W-shape terminology, section properties, steel connections, and CAD detailing can help explain how this shape fits into a broader design or drafting process.
W27x281 FAQ
What type of section is W27x281?
W27x281 is a W-shape, commonly described as a wide-flange structural steel section. The source reference provides its dimensional and mass-related data.
What information is listed for W27x281?
The reference lists depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight. It also identifies the AISC specification context and provides a DWG download.
Does the W27x281 designation alone provide design capacity?
No. Design capacity depends on factors such as material, unbraced length, loading, boundary conditions, connection behavior, limit states, and the governing project requirements. Those checks must be completed by a qualified engineer.
What should be checked before using the DWG file?
Verify the drawing units, geometry, orientation, layer standards, and interfaces with adjoining members or connections before using the file for project documentation or fabrication-related work.
