The W8x48 is a W-shape steel section commonly identified by its nominal depth and unit weight designation. This reference page presents the source dimensions and section data, along with practical guidance for reading the profile and using its drawing resource.
Use the information below as a reference during preliminary layout, detailing, estimating, or CAD coordination. Final member selection and connection design require project-specific engineering verification.
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 : 215.9 mm
Width : 206 mm
Web Thickness : 10.2 mm
Flange Thickness : 17.4 mm
Root Fillet Radius : 10 mm
Sectional Area : 90.97 cm2
Unit Weight : 71.4 kg/m
How to read the W8x48 designation
The “W” identifies a wide-flange, or wide-flange beam, section. The designation that follows identifies the nominal series and the section’s listed unit weight. The nominal designation should not be treated as a substitute for the actual dimensions shown in the reference data.
W8x48 section dimensions
The source content reports the overall depth, flange width, web thickness, flange thickness, and root fillet radius for this section. These features are important when checking clearances, framing intersections, connection detailing, coping, and fit-up with other steel members.
For related terminology, see the site’s references on W-shapes, steel section dimensions, and structural steel connections. Understanding the distinction between web, flange, and root fillet geometry can help prevent errors when transferring member data into drawings or analysis software.
Section area and unit weight
The listed sectional area and unit weight support material takeoffs and reference calculations. They should be kept separate from design checks such as strength, stability, deflection, vibration, and connection resistance, which depend on the governing project requirements and the complete structural system.
CAD and drafting reference
A DWG file is provided with this page for use as a drafting reference. Before incorporating downloaded geometry into a construction document, confirm the drawing scale, units, layer standards, revision status, and compatibility with the project’s CAD workflow. The DWG should not replace verification against the authoritative section data.
Frequently asked questions
What type of steel section is W8x48?
W8x48 is a W-shape, also called a wide-flange steel section. Its designation identifies the nominal series and listed unit weight.
Where can I find the W8x48 dimensions?
The dimensions are provided in the existing reference content on this page, including depth, width, web thickness, flange thickness, and root fillet radius.
What is the W8x48 used for?
It may be considered as part of a structural framing system, but whether it is appropriate for a particular beam, column, or other application depends on the project loads, supports, bracing, material requirements, connections, and applicable design checks.
Is the W8x48 DWG ready for construction documents?
The downloadable DWG is a CAD reference resource. Review its units, scale, geometry, layers, and revision before using it in project drawings, and verify the profile against the source data.
Which specification is referenced on this page?
The source content refers to the American Institute of Steel Construction specification identified there as AISC 360-16. Use the governing project requirements and current adopted references when performing design or compliance work.
