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IPE vs HEA vs HEB beams: which one should you choose?
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Short answer
IPE has narrow flanges (flange width about half the depth) and suits members working in bending, such as roof and floor beams and rafters. HEA and HEB have wide flanges (width close to the depth), so they are favoured for columns and heavy loads. HEB is heavier and thicker than HEA of the same number.
The numbers
| Section | Depth (mm) | Flange width (mm) | Mass (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPE 200 | 200 | 100 | 22.4 |
| HEA 200 | 190 | 200 | 42.3 |
| HEB 200 | 200 | 200 | 61.3 |
The same number is not the same section: an HEB 200 weighs roughly two and a half times an IPE 200, and an HEA 200 is actually 190 mm deep. Always write the series with the number in any order.
When to use each
- IPE: roof and floor beams and rafters on medium spans, giving high bending resistance for little weight
- HEA: medium-load columns, or beams where available depth is limited
- HEB: heavily loaded columns and structures with heavy loads or cranes
The final section is set by the structural engineer's design; this comparison is for general understanding only.
FAQ
Can I replace an IPE with an HEA of the same number?
Not necessarily. Properties differ about both axes and so does weight, so any substitution must go back to the structural engineer.
What is the difference between HEB and IPN?
IPN is an older section with tapered inner flanges; HEB has wide parallel flanges. Most modern designs use IPE and HE sections.
General guidance — not an offer or commitment by BUILDORA.