Types of Beams in Construction

Structural beams are horizontal components within a building's framework which bear the weight of walls and distribute vertical loads. Unlike the general definition of a beam, which is any structural member that can support vertical loads by bending with the applied load, a beam in construction has additional criteria- it serves as an axial support that takes symmetric lateral loads around its neutral axis. The construction beams are categorized into different groups based on the materials used, support conditions, and construction type.
Based on Support Conditions:
1. Simply Supported Beam
A Simply Supported Beam or Relatively Simple Beam is where the loads are applied at different locations of the structure. Every single load acts in such a way that it tends to turn the beam in one direction and there is a mixture of forces trying to do a clockwise and anticlockwise rotations through the beam's center point and thus the bending moment at the centre of beam section doesn't always tell the same story. This is the most common form of foundations used in residential buildings and household construction.
2. Cantilever Beam
Cantilever beam is one of the common form of cantilever beams. A cantilever beam is a structural member anchored at one end but has no restriction of movement at the other. Statically determinate beam model is where a determinate construction structure is devoid of bending moments, torsion, and shear up to the section between one of the structures supporting is ideally posing.
3. Fixed Beam
Both ends of fixed beams are attached and do not allow movement vertically as well as rotation. This allows them to withstand moments at the supports because of decreased bending in the midsection of the beam. Beams that are fixed are more stable but more rigid which makes construction harder.
4. Continuous Beam
More than two supports a continuous beam extends over. This beam type is better at load distribution than the simply supported beam because it results in lower bending moments and deflections. Large buildings and bridges that require multiple supports tend to use continuous beams.
5. Overhanging Beam
One or both ends of an overhanging beam extend beyond its support. It features a blend of both simply supported and cantilever beams. Overhanging beams are ideal where the extreme ends of the beam have no support as in balconies and verandas.

Types of Beams Based on Material

1. Wooden Beams
Wooden beams are believed to have been some of the earliest structural beams used and are still in use today. They are mainly utilized in homes and light commercial buildings. Wood beams are low in price, easy to cut, and offer decent thermal insulation. On the other hand, they are also vulnerable to fire, moisture, and insect damage.
2. Steel Beams
Due to their strength-to-weight ratio, steel beams are one of the most popular types of beams used in modern day construction. They can support significant weight, cover great distances, and exhibit a high degree of durability. These include I-beams, which are also known as H-beams, T-beams, and channel beams. Steel beams are perfect for use in skyscrapers, industrial factories, and even bridges.

3. Concrete Beams
Reinforced concrete structures often make use of concrete beams. Depending on how construction is planned, these beams can be either precast, or cast in situ. Its ability to withstand compression makes it optimal with the tensile strength of steel reinforcement, and therefore these are widely used for many types of structures.
4. Composite Beams
Composite beams are formed out of different materials and therefore exhibit different characteristics which enable them to better withstand forces. A common example is a steel beam encased in concrete. Such composite construction improves performance, minimizes deflection, improves fire-resistance, and protects the vulnerable structures from fire. Bridges and commercial structures often use composite beams.
5. FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymers) Beams
FRP beams are lightweight, High in performance and have greater strength than steel, which makes them more functional for construction
Beam Types according to Construction Method
1. Beams cast in place
These beams of concrete were poured and allowed to cure on the building site. Although they take longer to build, they enable monolithic construction using slabs and columns.

2. Beams made of precast
Beams of precast concrete are made off-site and delivered to the construction site. They provide lower labour costs, shorter building times, and superior quality control.
3. Beams with pre-stress

Steel tendons are tensioned prior to the concrete being poured in pre-stressed beams, a type of reinforced concrete beam. Bridges and other large-span constructions benefit greatly from this technique because it increases the beam's ability to support heavier loads with less deflection.
Conclusion
Beams are fundamental components in the structural integrity of any building or infrastructure. The choice of beam type depends on various factors including load requirements, span length, material properties, and design preferences. Understanding the different types of beams helps engineers and architects select the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for structural support. From simple wooden beams in residential homes to advanced pre stressed concrete in highway overpasses, beams continue to shape the built environment in critical ways.