Overview
ISO 657-15:1980 is an International Standard that defines hot-rolled sloping flange beam sections (metric series). The document specifies the designation method and provides the dimensions and sectional properties (in a figure and a table) needed for design, fabrication and procurement of this family of steel profiles. Example designation format: SB 160 x 18 (SB followed by depth and mass per metre).
Key topics
- Designation system: Profiles are labelled with the prefix “SB” plus depth and mass per metre (e.g., SB 160 x 18).
- Dimensional data: Metric dimensions for depth, flange and web geometry, and the fillet/toe radii (radii are given for information and for computing section properties).
- Sectional properties: Tabulated engineering properties such as cross-sectional area, mass per metre, moments of inertia about the principal axes (x-x, y-y), section moduli, and related geometric values needed for structural calculations.
- Units and presentation: Values are presented in metric units and organized by designation; figures and a comprehensive table support consistent interpretation.
- Scope limitation: Applies to hot-rolled sloping flange beam sections in the metric series - the standard supplies geometry/property data rather than material specifications or load capacity provisions.
Applications
ISO 657-15 is useful for engineers and professionals who need standardized geometric and sectional data for sloping flange beams in metric units. Typical applications include:
- Structural design and analysis (beam selection, bending and deflection checks)
- Steelwork detailing and fabrication drawings
- Structural modelling and BIM families where accurate profile geometry and inertial properties are required
- Procurement and specification of hot-rolled steel beam sections
- Cross-checking manufacturer catalogs and calculating section properties for custom checks
Users who commonly apply this standard:
- Structural and civil engineers
- Steel fabricators and manufacturers
- Architects and detailers working with steel structures
- Procurement specialists and standards compliance teams
Related standards
- This document is Part 15 of the ISO 657 series covering hot-rolled steel sections; other parts of ISO 657 address different beam and section types.
- For material mechanical properties and load design rules, consult national design codes and other ISO/EN standards covering steel grades and structural design methods.
Keywords: ISO 657-15, sloping flange beam sections, hot-rolled steel sections, dimensions, sectional properties, metric series, beam designation, structural steel profiles.
Open preview (PDF)Hot-rolled steel sections — Part 15: Sloping flange beam sections (Metric series) — Dimensions and sectional properties
