Selecting the correct FRP beam is a critical step in achieving safe structural performance, long service life, and cost efficiency. Unlike steel beams, FRP beams are composite structural members whose behavior depends on load characteristics, span length, environmental exposure, and connection details. This guide outlines the key engineering considerations involved in FRP beam selection and presents a practical workflow used in industrial and infrastructure projects.
FRP I-beams and steel I-beams are both widely used in structural applications, but their performance characteristics and long-term economic behavior differ significantly. Steel I-beams offer high stiffness and traditional design familiarity, while FRP I-beams provide corrosion resistance, lightweight handling, and reduced maintenance. This article compares FRP and steel I-beams from both structural and economic perspectives, supporting informed material selection for industrial and infrastructure projects.
FRP beams are increasingly used in industrial and infrastructure projects where corrosion resistance, lightweight handling, and long-term structural reliability are required. Their pultruded composite structure allows stable load performance while minimizing maintenance and lifecycle cost. This article reviews the most common application scenarios for FRP beams and explains why they are often selected over traditional steel beams in demanding environments.