W14×90 vs W30×90

A side-by-side comparison of two AISC wide-flange beams, 16th Edition. Detailing dimensions to the nearest 1/16 in.

W14×90 and W30×90 both weigh 90 lb per foot, so the choice comes down to depth and stiffness rather than weight.

W30×90 is the deeper section at a nominal 30 in., versus 14 in.

W30×90 has the greater bending strength: section modulus Sx of 245 in³ versus 143, about 71% more.

PropertyW14×90W30×90
Weight90 lb/ft90 lb/ft
Depth (d)14"29 1/2"
Flange width (bf)14 1/2"10 3/8"
Web thickness (tw)7/16"1/2"
Flange thickness (tf)11/16"5/8"
Area (A)26.5 in²26.3 in²
Moment of inertia (Ix)999 in⁴3610 in⁴
Section modulus (Sx)143 in³245 in³
Plastic modulus (Zx)157 in³283 in³

Open W14×90 in the interactive size chart →

Full detail: W14×90 · W30×90. Verify critical dimensions against the current AISC Steel Construction Manual before fabrication.

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