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Universal Beams (UB) are I-shaped structural steel sections designed to carry heavy loads across spans. Featuring a wide flange profile, UBs are the most commonly used steel beam in UK construction for floor joists, lintels, and structural frameworks. Available in sizes from 127x76 to 203x133 with various kg/m weights, all beams are cut to your exact length requirements. Choose from self-colour (unpainted) or shotblast painted finish for enhanced corrosion protection. Supplied to BS EN 10025 S275JR specification. Contact Next Day Steel on 020 8079 7719 for technical advice and next-day UK delivery (subject to stock and location).
Product Specifications
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Type
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Universal Beam (UB) - I-Section
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Material
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Mild Steel - S275JR to BS EN 10025
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Available Sizes
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127x76, 152x89, 178x102, 203x102, 203x133
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Weight Options
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Various kg/m depending on size (13kg to 30kg)
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Finish Options
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Self Colour (No Paint) or Shotblast Painted (Red Oxide)
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Cut to Length
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Yes - Custom lengths available
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Applications
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Floor joists, lintels, roof beams, structural frames, mezzanine floors
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Available Sizes & Weights
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Size (mm)
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Weight (kg/m)
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127x76
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13
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152x89
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16
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178x102
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19
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203x102
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23
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203x133
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25, 30
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Key Features
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Cut to your exact length requirements - no waste, precise fit.
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I-beam profile provides excellent load-bearing capacity with minimal weight.
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Optional shotblast paint finish for improved corrosion resistance.
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Compliant with BS EN 10025 S275JR structural steel specification.
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Suitable for welding, drilling, bolting, and further fabrication.
Common Uses for Universal Beams
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Floor joists - Supporting floor loads in residential and commercial buildings
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Lintels - Spanning openings above doors, windows, and structural openings
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Roof beams - Primary structural support for roof systems
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Mezzanine floors - Main beams for raised floor platforms
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Structural frames - Portal frames, goalposts, and building skeletons
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RSJ replacements - Modern equivalent of traditional rolled steel joists
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Universal Beam and an RSJ?
RSJ (Rolled Steel Joist) is an older term for steel beams with tapered flanges. Universal Beams (UB) have parallel flanges, making them easier to connect and more efficient structurally. In everyday use, RSJ and UB are often used interchangeably, but UBs are the modern standard section used in UK construction.
What do the numbers mean (e.g., 203x133)?
The first number is the approximate depth in millimetres, and the second is the flange width. So a 203x133 UB is approximately 203mm deep with 133mm wide flanges. The kg/m weight indicates how heavy the beam is per metre length.
How do I choose the right size Universal Beam?
Beam selection depends on span length, load requirements, and deflection limits. For structural applications, you'll need calculations from a structural engineer. For general guidance, call us on 020 8079 7719 and we can help point you in the right direction.
What is the difference between self colour and shotblast painted?
Self colour (no paint) is the natural mill finish - ideal if you plan to paint, galvanise, or weld the steel yourself. Shotblast painted includes a red oxide primer coating applied after shot blasting, providing temporary corrosion protection and a clean surface ready for top coating.
What steel grade are the Universal Beams?
Our Universal Beams are supplied to BS EN 10025 S275JR specification, which is the standard structural steel grade used throughout the UK construction industry. S275JR offers excellent weldability and is suitable for all general structural applications.
Can Universal Beams be cut to any length?
Yes, we cut Universal Beams to your specified length. Simply enter your required length in millimetres when ordering. Minimum order length is 100mm.
Do I need Building Regulations approval to install a steel beam?
Yes, structural alterations involving steel beams typically require Building Regulations approval. You'll need structural calculations from a qualified engineer specifying the correct beam size for your application. Your local Building Control office will need to inspect the installation.
How is the weight of a Universal Beam calculated?
Universal Beam weight is calculated as: Length (m) × kg/m weight. For example, a 3-metre length of 203x133x30 UB weighs 3 × 30 = 90kg. Our online calculator automatically works this out based on your selected size and length.
Can Universal Beams be welded?
Yes, S275JR Universal Beams are fully weldable using standard MIG, TIG, or arc welding methods. For site welding, ensure proper preparation and consider using a qualified welder for structural connections.
Do you offer next day delivery on Universal Beams?
Yes, we offer next day delivery across mainland UK on orders placed before our cut-off time, subject to stock availability and delivery location. Contact us for delivery to Scotland, highlands, and islands. Note that longer or heavier beams may require specific transport arrangements.
