I-beams, whether standard or lightweight, due to their relatively high and narrow cross-sectional dimensions, have significantly different inertia moments for their two principal axes. As a result, they can only be directly used in components that bend within the plane of their web or as components of trussed structures. They are not suitable for components under axial compression or for those that bend perpendicular to the plane of the web, which greatly limits their application range. I-beams are widely used in construction and other metal structures.

Common I-beams and light I-beams have a relatively high and narrow cross-section, resulting in a significant difference in the inertia moments of the two main axes, which greatly limits their application range. The selection of I-beams should be based on the requirements of the design drawings.

When selecting I-beams for structural design, choose based on their mechanical properties, chemical properties, weldability, and structural dimensions to utilize a suitable I-beam.