What is the Difference Between HEA and HEB Profiles?

What is the Difference Between HEA and HEB Profiles?

When it comes to construction and structural engineering, choosing the right type of steel profile is crucial. Steel profiles, also known as beams or girders, come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to fulfill specific structural needs. Two commonly used profiles in the industry are HEA and HEB profiles. Although they might seem similar at first glance, they have distinct characteristics and applications. In this article we prepared as Ayba Metal, we will explore what HEA and HEB profiles are, their respective properties, and the key differences between them.

What is HEA Profile?

One of the light steel frames, HEA profiles are a type of structural steel beam used primarily in construction and engineering projects. The "HEA" designation comes from the European standard for wide flange beams, indicating their shape and dimensions. These profiles are known for their wide flanges and relatively lightweight structure, making them suitable for a variety of applications where weight considerations are important.

Characteristics of HEA Profiles

Dimensions and Weight: HEA profiles have a specific set of dimensions that define their width, height, and weight. They come in various sizes, typically ranging from HEA 100 to HEA 1000. The number indicates the height of the profile in millimeters. HEA profiles are designed to be lighter than HEB profiles, which makes them advantageous in applications where reducing the overall weight of the structure is critical.

Flange and Web Thickness: The flanges of HEA profiles are wider and thinner compared to HEB profiles. This design feature helps in distributing loads more evenly across the beam, reducing the stress on any single point. The web (the vertical section connecting the flanges) is also thinner, contributing to the lighter weight of the HEA profile.

Material and Strength: HEA profiles are typically made from high-quality structural steel, providing excellent strength and durability. They are designed to withstand significant loads and stresses, making them suitable for a range of structural applications.

Applications: Due to their lightweight nature, HEA profiles are commonly used in construction projects where reducing the overall weight of the structure is essential. They are frequently employed in building frameworks, bridges, and various load-bearing applications.

What is HEB Profile?

HEB profiles are another type of structural steel beam commonly used in construction and engineering. The "HEB" designation also comes from the European standard for wide flange beams, but these profiles have distinct characteristics that set them apart from HEA profiles.

Characteristics of HEB Profiles

Dimensions and Weight: HEB profiles are similar in height to HEA profiles, with sizes typically ranging from HEB 100 to HEB 1000. However, HEB profiles are designed to be heavier, with thicker flanges and webs. The increased weight provides greater strength and load-bearing capacity, making HEB profiles suitable for applications requiring higher structural integrity.

Flange and Web Thickness: The flanges of HEB profiles are both wider and thicker compared to HEA profiles. This design feature enhances the profile's ability to bear heavy loads and resist bending. The thicker web also contributes to the overall strength and stability of the profile.

Material and Strength: Like HEA profiles, HEB profiles are made from high-quality structural steel, ensuring excellent strength and durability. The increased material in HEB profiles provides higher load-bearing capacity, making them ideal for demanding structural applications.

Applications: Due to their enhanced strength and load-bearing capacity, HEB profiles are used in construction projects where high structural integrity is crucial. They are commonly found in heavy-duty frameworks, industrial buildings, and structures subjected to significant loads and stresses.

What are the Differences Between HEA and HEB Profiles?

While HEA and HEB profiles share some similarities, their differences make them suitable for specific applications. Here are the key distinctions between these two types of steel profiles:

1. Weight and Dimensions

HEA Profiles: These are designed to be lighter with thinner flanges and webs. The reduced weight makes HEA profiles suitable for applications where minimizing the overall weight of the structure is essential.

HEB Profiles: These are heavier with thicker flanges and webs. The additional weight provides greater strength and load-bearing capacity, making HEB profiles ideal for applications requiring higher structural integrity.

2. Flange and Web Thickness

HEA Profiles: The flanges and webs of HEA profiles are thinner, contributing to their lighter weight. This design helps in evenly distributing loads and reducing stress on any single point.

HEB Profiles: The flanges and webs of HEB profiles are thicker, enhancing their ability to bear heavy loads and resist bending. The increased thickness provides additional strength and stability.

3. Load-Bearing Capacity

HEA Profiles: Due to their lighter weight and thinner structure, HEA profiles have a lower load-bearing capacity compared to HEB profiles. They are suitable for applications where reducing weight is more critical than bearing heavy loads.

HEB Profiles: With their heavier weight and thicker structure, HEB profiles offer a higher load-bearing capacity. They are ideal for demanding structural applications where high strength and stability are required.

4. Applications

HEA Profiles: These profiles are commonly used in construction projects where reducing the overall weight of the structure is important. Typical applications include building frameworks, bridges, and various load-bearing applications.

HEB Profiles: These profiles are used in construction projects where high structural integrity and load-bearing capacity are essential. Typical applications include heavy-duty frameworks, industrial buildings, and structures subjected to significant loads and stresses.

5. Cost

HEA Profiles: Generally, HEA profiles are less expensive than HEB profiles due to their lighter weight and reduced material usage. This can be a significant advantage in projects where budget constraints are a concern.

HEB Profiles: The increased material in HEB profiles results in a higher cost compared to HEA profiles. However, the additional expense is justified by their enhanced strength and load-bearing capacity, making them a worthwhile investment for demanding applications.

6. Availability

HEA Profiles: Both HEA and HEB profiles are widely available in the market, but the specific availability can vary depending on the region and supplier. HEA profiles are generally easier to source due to their common use in a variety of construction projects.

HEB Profiles: While HEB profiles are also readily available, their use in specialized applications might affect their availability in certain markets. It is essential to check with suppliers to ensure the required sizes and specifications are in stock.

7. Structural Design Considerations

HEA Profiles: When designing structures with HEA profiles, engineers must consider the reduced load-bearing capacity and ensure that the profile's weight advantage is fully utilized. Proper load distribution and stress analysis are crucial to ensure structural integrity.

HEB Profiles: Designing structures with HEB profiles involves taking advantage of their higher load-bearing capacity. Engineers can design more robust and stable structures, but they must also account for the increased weight and material usage.

8. Flexibility and Adaptability

HEA Profiles: Due to their lighter weight, HEA profiles offer greater flexibility and adaptability in construction projects. They can be easily modified and adjusted on-site, making them suitable for dynamic and evolving construction environments.

HEB Profiles: While HEB profiles provide superior strength, their increased weight can limit flexibility and adaptability. Precise planning and design are essential to ensure that the profiles fit seamlessly into the construction project.

In summary, both HEA and HEB profiles play vital roles in the construction and engineering industry, each offering distinct advantages and characteristics. HEA profiles are lighter and more suitable for projects where reducing weight is critical, while HEB profiles provide greater strength and load-bearing capacity for demanding structural applications. Understanding the differences between these profiles is essential for selecting the right type of steel beam for your specific project needs.


Whether you are constructing a building framework, a bridge, or an industrial structure, choosing the appropriate steel profile can significantly impact the overall success and stability of the project. By carefully considering the unique properties and applications of HEA and HEB profiles, you can ensure that your construction project meets its structural and load-bearing requirements efficiently and effectively.