W5×16 wide-flange beam
Detailing dimensions and section properties from the AISC Shapes Database, 16th Edition. Values are shown to the nearest 1/16 in. as they appear on a shop drawing.
W5×16 measures 5 in. deep with a 5 in. flange, on a 1/4 in. web and 3/8 in. flanges.
At 16 lb per foot it is the lightest of the 2 W5 sizes, which run from 16 to 19 lb/ft.
For strong-axis bending its section modulus is Sx = 8.55 in³ and its moment of inertia Ix = 21.4 in⁴, with a plastic modulus Zx = 9.63 in³.
Detailing dimensions
| Depth (d) | 5" |
|---|---|
| Flange width (bf) | 5" |
| Web thickness (tw) | 1/4" |
| Flange thickness (tf) | 3/8" |
| k (detailing) | 3/4" |
| Workable gage (g) | 2 3/4" |
Section properties
| Weight | 16 lb/ft |
|---|---|
| Area (A) | 4.71 in² |
| Ix | 21.4 in⁴ |
| Sx | 8.55 in³ |
| Zx | 9.63 in³ |
| rx | 2.13 in |
| Iy | 7.51 in⁴ |
| Sy | 3 in³ |
| Zy | 4.58 in³ |
| ry | 1.26 in |
| J | 0.192 in⁴ |
Other W5 sizes
Same nominal size, different weight — useful when you are checking a substitution or a lighter section.
Similar weight wide-flange beams
Comparable 16 lb/ft sections in other wide-flange beam sizes.
Compare W5×16 with a nearby size
Detailing values are rounded to the nearest 1/16 in. per the AISC Steel Construction Manual. Verify critical dimensions against the current Manual before fabrication. Need W5×16 cut, formed, or fabricated? Huntington Steel & Supply Co.
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