Mainbeams

Mainbeams, also known as primary beams or girders, are the principal load-bearing structural elements in a building or bridge. They are typically designed to span between columns or walls and carry the loads from secondary beams, floor slabs, or the deck of a bridge. The primary function of a mainbeam is to transfer these loads to the supporting vertical elements. The size, shape, and material of mainbeams are determined by the magnitude of the loads they must support, the span length, and the desired aesthetic or functional requirements. Common materials for mainbeams include steel, reinforced concrete, and timber. In steel structures, mainbeams are often I-beams or box girders, while in concrete construction, they are typically reinforced concrete beams. The design of mainbeams involves calculations to ensure they can withstand bending moments, shear forces, and deflection within acceptable limits. They are a critical component in ensuring the overall stability and integrity of a structure.