The Difference Between Universal Columns and Universal Beams

Compared to universal beams, the columns’ widths are approximately equal to their depths. The exact size of the steel column changes depending on the weight of it. The total weight of the universal column is easily calculated by multiplying this weight per meter by the total length in meters.

Universal columns are mainly used as exactly that – columns. However, due to their smaller depth, they also make very good load bearing members where height is limited. This is quite common with residential projects and small-scale building work where minimal structural work is required. Columns and beams function very differently under different loads. Where beams hold loads along the entire length of the beam, columns are designed to hold loads across the entire vertical axis. The column’s more square-shaped dimension enhances the sturdiness and prevents twisting.

UC – universal column or UB – universal beam. Unlike a universal beam, the UC’s width is roughly equal to their depth. For example, a 152 UC 23 is 152 mm wide and 152 mm deep and 152*89 UB 16 is 89mm wide and 152mm deep. The last number (23 in this example) is the weight per meter in kilograms.