W18×76 vs W24×76

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

W18×76 and W24×76 both weigh 76 lb per foot, so the choice comes down to depth and stiffness rather than weight.

W24×76 is the deeper section at a nominal 24 in., versus 18 in.

W24×76 has the greater bending strength: section modulus Sx of 176 in³ versus 146, about 21% more.

PropertyW18×76W24×76
Weight76 lb/ft76 lb/ft
Depth (d)18 1/4"23 7/8"
Flange width (bf)11"9"
Web thickness (tw)7/16"7/16"
Flange thickness (tf)11/16"11/16"
Area (A)22.3 in²22.4 in²
Moment of inertia (Ix)1330 in⁴2100 in⁴
Section modulus (Sx)146 in³176 in³
Plastic modulus (Zx)163 in³200 in³

Open W18×76 in the interactive size chart →

Full detail: W18×76 · W24×76. Verify critical dimensions against the current AISC Steel Construction Manual before fabrication.

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