The W8x21 reference identifies a W beam by its standard designation and provides the section data used when reviewing steel framing layouts, connection details, and fabrication drawings. The listed dimensions and properties are the controlling local reference values for this page.
Use this page alongside related references on W-shape dimensions, steel section properties, and steel terminology. These companion topics help explain how geometric data is interpreted without replacing the project engineer’s design checks or the governing project documents.
W8x21 reference overview
The source content below includes the beam dimensions, web and flange thicknesses, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight. It also identifies the AISC specification context and provides a DWG download for drafting and reference use.
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 : 210.3 mm
Width : 133.9 mm
Web Thickness : 6.3 mm
Flange Thickness : 10.2 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 7.6 mm
Sectional Area : 39.74 cm2
Unit Weight : 31.2 kg/m
How to read the W8x21 data
Depth and width describe the overall envelope of the section. The web and flange thicknesses describe the principal plate elements, while the root fillet radius represents the curved transition between the web and flange. That transition can matter when checking fit-up, detailing clearances, and how connected parts bear against the rolled shape.
Sectional area describes the total steel area represented by the cross-section. It is different from the visible outside dimensions because the shape includes flanges, a web, and curved root regions. Unit weight expresses the listed mass of the section per unit length; it is useful for material takeoffs and handling estimates, but it is not by itself a complete structural design input.
Using the reference in design and drafting
- Confirm that the selected shape, orientation, and units match the project drawings and specification.
- Use the listed dimensions when coordinating connections, supports, penetrations, stiffeners, and adjacent members.
- Obtain any additional strength or stability properties required by the applicable design method rather than inferring them from the basic dimensions.
- Review the available steel connections and detailing guidance when developing bolts, welds, plates, seats, or other connection components.
- Treat the DWG as a drafting reference and verify scale, layer conventions, insertion units, and project-specific CAD standards before issuing drawings.
AISC context
The source identifies AISC 360-16, the 2016 edition of the AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings, as its reference context. The specification addresses design, fabrication, and erection requirements for steel structures in the United States. Project teams should still confirm which contract documents, adopted codes, and editions govern a particular job.
Related SteelSTD resources
For broader understanding, connect this page with resources covering W-shape selection, section property terminology, steel design references, and DWG files for structural steel. Linking these topics gives readers a path from a single shape entry to practical interpretation and detailing education.
W8x21 frequently asked questions
What does W8x21 mean?
W8x21 is the designation used for the W beam identified on this page. The source provides its corresponding dimensions, section area, and unit weight; the designation should be checked against the applicable shape reference before use in project documents.
What information is provided for the W8x21?
The page lists depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, root fillet radius, sectional area, and unit weight. It also provides the stated AISC reference context and a DWG download.
What is the difference between sectional area and unit weight?
Sectional area describes the amount of steel in the cross-section. Unit weight describes the mass of the section per unit length. They support different review tasks and should not be treated as interchangeable properties.
Can the W8x21 DWG be used directly for construction drawings?
The DWG is provided as a drafting and reference resource. Check its units, scale, layers, geometry, and compatibility with project CAD standards before incorporating it into issued documents.
Does this page replace structural design verification?
No. The listed data supports reference and coordination work, but member selection, strength, stability, serviceability, connections, and code compliance require project-specific engineering review.
