Balken

Balken is a term used in German-speaking construction to denote a structural member that carries loads and transfers them to supports. Typically installed horizontally, a Balken spans between supports and resists bending under load. The word is used for timber beams (Holzbalken), steel beams (Stahlbalken), and concrete beams (Betonbalken).

In timber construction, Balken are usually solid sections cut from logs or engineered wood products such as glulam or laminated veneer lumber. They come in rectangular or square cross-sections and are connected with traditional joinery, nails, screws, or metal brackets. Steel Balken commonly have I- or H-shaped cross-sections and are used to span long distances or to carry heavy loads; they are typically supported by columns or walls and connected with bolts or welds. Concrete Balken are cast in place or precast and are fundamental in reinforced concrete floors and bridges.

Design considerations include span length, load types (dead, live, environmental), support conditions, material properties, and allowable deflection. In engineering, bending moment M, shear force V, and deflection δ describe the beam's behavior. The cross-section's strength is expressed by the section modulus S or the moment of inertia I, and the stiffness by the modulus of elasticity E. Local building codes govern safety factors, connections, and fire resistance.

Historically, Balken have been central to timber frame and girder systems in many cultures. In everyday language, the term can also refer more generally to any long, straight supporting bar.