When you’re planning and designing a construction project, you have so many options for structural elements. Steel is a particularly sustainable and cost-effective option that many modern constructions opt for, but even the most fundamental types of steel beams feature important nuances to wrap your head around. One of those fundamental steel beam types is ‘Universal Steel’, which comes either as a ‘Beam’ (UB) or a ‘Column’ (UC). But what is the difference between UB and UC steel, and when should you use them?
The core difference between UB and UC steel is their shape and applications:
- UB steel is taller than it is wide
- UC steel is equal in width and height
- UB steel is mainly used for horizontal, spanning supports
- UC steel is mainly used for vertical, load-bearing supports
Keep reading to learn about the specific benefits and applications of UB and UC steel, and how STEELO can help you choose the right type for the job.
What is UB Steel?
‘Universal Beam’ (UB) steel refers to a shape of ‘open section’ steel beam that is taller than it is wide. UB steel is often also called I-Beam steel because of how it resembles a capitalised letter ‘i’.
What is UC Steel?
‘Universal Column’ (UC) steel refers to a shape of ‘open section’ steel beam that is approximately equal in width and height. UC steel might also be called an H-section because of how it resembles a capitalised letter ‘H’.
Shape and Load Differences Between UB and UC Steel
As mentioned, the core difference between UB steel and UC steel is their shape; Universal Beams are taller than wide, whereas Universal Columns are equal in height and width.
However, this variation in size and shape allows for each beam to have unique load-bearing qualities and uses. The load capacity of a steel beam depends on:
- Section size
- Orientation
- Loading conditions
UC sections are typically used for vertical load-bearing due to their more balanced geometry, whereas UB sections are more efficient in bending for spanning applications.
Typical Uses for UB vs. UC Steel Beams
UB steel and UC steel, while very similar in their uses as skeleton framing for buildings, do have their own specific applications in construction. Selecting the appropriate section is critical to ensure structural performance and efficiency.
It is always best to consult an expert during the drafting and planning stages of your project on whether UC or UB steel is better. Below, the experienced fabricators at STEELO have outlined some typical applications and benefits for UB and UC steel to highlight their differences.
| Application | Universal Beam | Universal Column |
| Structural support | UB steel is most commonly used to span large, open spaces, supporting floors and roofing. | UC steel is most commonly used as a structural skeleton, supporting floors, roofing, and horizontal beams. |
| Weight transfer | Supports horizontal load distribution across spans but is not primarily used for vertical weight transfer. | UC steel helps to transfer weight down a structure to the foundations, providing stability to skyscrapers and large commercial buildings. |
| Heavy-duty projects | Suitable for heavy-duty horizontal structures such as bridges, platforms, and large frameworks. | UC steel’s strength and environmental resistance make it essential for heavy-duty frames, bridges, and offshore construction. |
| Domestic projects | Commonly used in home extensions and renovations to support walls, floors, and openings. | UC sections are less common in domestic projects but may be used where vertical load-bearing capacity is required. |
| Withstand dynamic loads | UB sections can be designed to accommodate dynamic loads, depending on their application and structural design. | UC sections can be designed to accommodate dynamic loads, depending on their application and structural design. |
| Outdoor applications | UB steel offers particular support across large interior spaces, most applicable in warehouses and commercial buildings. | Used in external structural frameworks where vertical load-bearing support is required. |
Choosing Between UB and UC for Your Project
For builders, the decision is not just about UB vs UC steel, it’s also about load path, span and column spacing, and connection detailing. Ultimately, though, the final decision between UB and UC steel beams is engineer-led. Your engineers must consider:
- The steel’s function in the project
- UC and UB sizes and weights applications
- Project costs
To ensure that your project runs optimally, you need to work with engineers directly so that key decisions can be made and communicated to everyone involved. Quality communication with your engineers also ensures fabrication accuracy and correct section supply and delivery. An optimal design, fabrication, and installation process is the best way to avoid site issues down the road.
Function in the Project
Carefully consider how the beams are being used in your project, and alternate between UB and UC steel depending on their use in specific areas. Remember:
- Universal Beams are best for spanning applications and dynamic horizontal strength
- Universal Columns are best for balanced applications and providing vertical structural sturdiness
UC and UB Sizes & Weights
UC and UB steel have different size and weight ranges to consider. Use the table below to better understand the variations in how each beam scales.
| Beam Type | Weight (kg/m) | Height (mm) | Flange Thickness (mm) | |||
| Minimum | Maximum | Minimum | Maximum | Minimum | Maximum | |
| Universal Beam
|
13 | 388 | 127 | 921 | 7.6 | 36.6 |
| Universal Column
|
23 | 634 | 152.6 | 474.6 | 6.8 | 77.0 |
Project Costs
Universal Beams are particularly cost-effective because of their optimised cross-section, whereas Universal Columns can provide more value in their load-bearing application. Understanding the difference and designing your projects optimally saves on money, time, and labour.
At STEELO, our engineers work alongside you during the planning stage to ensure that your designs are correct, but also budgeted efficiently and provide the most bang for your buck.
UB and UC Steel Beam Fabrication at STEELO
If you’re looking for UC and UB steel beam fabrication, look no further than STEELO, the London-based fabricator and supplier of universal steel beams for you. We work with clients through all the stages of a project to ensure that our steel meets the exact specifications of their projects.
Get in touch with our team to discuss requirements and options for UB steel and UC steel fabrication today, or browse our full range of steel beams, prefab structures, and steel finishes online.
UB vs UC Steel Beams FAQs
Can a Universal Beam be Used as a Column?
A Universal Beam (UB) can be used as a column, but in almost all cases, a Universal Column (UC) is more suitable for use as a column.
This is because the shape of UC steel—equal width and depth of cross-section—allows for superior weight distribution than UB steel.
What is the Difference Between an I-Beam and a Universal Beam?
The term “I-beam” is often used generically to describe UB sections, although UB refers specifically to standard UK rolled sections.
What is the Difference Between an H-Beam and a Universal Column?
The term “H-beam” is often used generically to describe UC sections, although UC refers specifically to standard UK rolled sections.
Where Can I Get UB or UC Steel Beams Fabricated?
STEELO is London’s top structural steel fabricator and supplier for construction projects of any scale and scope. Our expert engineers work alongside clients to ensure that our products meet your specifications, no matter how bespoke. Get in touch with our team for a quote on Universal Beam and UC steel fabrication.
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