What is the "d" dimension measurement for a W14x730 beam?

The "d" dimension of a W14x730 beam refers to the overall depth of the beam in inches. In the designation "W14x730," the "14" indicates the nominal depth of the beam, which generally corresponds to a depth of approximately 14 inches. However, the "730" in the designation specifies the weight of the beam per foot, which indicates that this is a heavy section that can have additional dimensions impacting its design.

For wide-flange beams, the depth is typically more than just the nominal value due to the geometry and additional specifications of the design. The "d" dimension for a W14x730 beam is indeed 22-3/8 inches. This can be verified against standard steel design tables, which provide the details for wide-flange shapes. Therefore, this depth measurement aligns with the structural dimensions that engineers use, ensuring that it meets safety and design criteria in construction applications.

Understanding the importance of the "d" dimension is crucial in structural engineering, as it influences factors such as load-bearing capacity and overall stability of the steel structure.