The W6x15 steel beam is a W-shape reference used for structural steel design, detailing, and CAD coordination. This page presents the source dimensions and section data together with practical guidance for interpreting the listed properties.
Use the dimensional information when checking drawings, comparing steel shape references, or coordinating framing layouts. For fabrication and design decisions, confirm the applicable project requirements, material specifications, connection details, and engineering calculations rather than relying on the shape designation alone.
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 : 152.1 mm
Width : 152.1 mm
Web Thickness : 5.8 mm
Flange Thickness : 6.6 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 6.4 mm
Sectional Area : 28.58 cm2
Unit Weight : 22.4 kg/m
How to read the W6x15 reference
The listed depth and width describe the overall envelope of the section. Web thickness and flange thickness help distinguish the proportions of the shape and are useful when reviewing a section sketch, checking clearances, or coordinating connections and detailing.
The root fillet radius identifies the curved transition between the web and flange. This area can affect fit-up, detailing assumptions, and how connected components bear against the rolled shape. Connection layouts should account for the actual rolled geometry shown in the applicable steel-shape reference.
Sectional area and unit weight
Sectional area is a geometric property of the steel cross-section. It can support material takeoffs and other engineering checks, but it is not a substitute for the section properties or design verification required for a particular load case.
Unit weight expresses the listed mass per unit length and is useful for estimating member self-weight, handling requirements, and preliminary quantities. Project calculations should use the governing design basis and verified material information.
AISC reference and CAD workflow
The source identifies AISC 360-16, the 2016 edition of the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings. That specification provides requirements related to the design, fabrication, and erection of steel structures in the United States. Always confirm which project documents and adopted requirements govern the work.
A DWG download is available for the W6x15 reference. Before inserting it into production drawings, check the file units, layer conventions, insertion point, orientation, and whether the drawing represents the geometry needed for the intended detail. Related SteelSTD resources on W-shapes, section properties, steel terminology, and connection detailing can help with broader shape selection and drafting coordination.
W6x15 frequently asked questions
What does W6x15 identify?
W6x15 identifies a W-shape designation used in structural steel references. The designation should be used together with the listed dimensions, section data, material requirements, and project design criteria.
What are the listed dimensions of the W6x15?
The source lists a depth of 152.1 mm, a width of 152.1 mm, a web thickness of 5.8 mm, a flange thickness of 6.6 mm, and a root fillet radius of 6.4 mm.
What is the W6x15 unit weight?
The listed unit weight is 22.4 kg/m. Use the governing project assumptions when estimating self-weight or preparing a material takeoff.
Is the W6x15 DWG ready for fabrication?
The page provides a DWG reference for download, but a downloaded file should be reviewed for units, geometry, drafting standards, and project-specific requirements before fabrication or construction use.
Does this page replace structural design?
No. The listed shape data is a reference. Member selection, stability checks, connections, fabrication details, and approval remain subject to the applicable engineering design and project requirements.


