RC beam definition - standard

[lolobau]

Hi in a structural layout plan we can call the RC beams for example 220x550mm
why must the width actually be alwyas in the front? Is there a rule for?

 

[Ingenuity]

Depends on what country you practice.

In Australia, for example, in a framing plan a RC beam is shown width first, followed by depth - because in plan view you see the "width".

However, in the USA and Canada they call out the depth followed by width on a framing plan. I guess because the depth is the structurally critical dimension.

What ever way you use, place a note in your drawing notes describing your method of tagging etc.

 

[jayrod12]

90% of the stuff I have worked with (canada solely) has been width x depth

 

[BAretired]

I'm in Canada and have always called width by depth on framing plans but I agree with Ingenuity that it is best to spell it out on the drawings.

BA

 

[lolobau]

Yes Ingenuity: lets just make it rather sure and have a note on the drawings although I also think that in most cases the width is indicated first. Your explanation that this is because you see the width first on the layout plan makes totaly sensse

 

[msquared48]

Always better if in compliance with the local standard, and always defined on the drawings.

Mike McCann, PE, SE

 

[BAretired]

Usually there are cross sections which remove all doubt as to which comes first.

BA