Beam Analysis Calculator
Enter a symmetric I/H (W-shape) section's dimensions, its steel grade, the support condition, and the factored loads it carries, to check bending, shear, and deflection against CSA S16 factored resistances.
Standards used on this page:CSA S16-19 Clause 13.5 (factored moment resistance) · Clause 13.4 (factored shear
resistance) · Limit States Design throughout (resistance factor φ = 0.90).
Scope of this tool: covers Class 1, 2 and 3 sections only - Class 4
(slender) sections need an effective section this tool does not calculate. The beam is
assumed laterally supported: lateral-torsional buckling (CSA S16 Clause 13.6) is
not checked here, so the compression flange must be adequately braced.
Note on accuracy: this tool assumes sharp (unfilleted) corners, so
computed section properties run about 1-2% below the CISC published (filleted) values -
adequate for preliminary sizing. Self-weight, if included, uses a steel density of
7850 kg/m³ on the calculated area. Deflection is an indicative serviceability
check evaluated with the loads you enter; a rigorous check uses specified (unfactored) loads.
This calculator provides preliminary, indicative structural calculations only, intended to
assist with initial sizing and understanding. It is not a substitute for assessment by a
qualified structural engineer, and ca.cad-steel.com accepts no responsibility for its use
in any final design.