Difference Between Beam And Column

A structure built up by various components, and those all are designed to stabilize the structure.

As you know, the load transfer process as slab > Beam > Column > Foundation. In all these areas, we use the same type of rods for the entire structure. It only differs from its orientation.

Contents of the Article show

Difference Between Beam and Column

What is Beam? – A horizontal member of the structure that transfers the bending load is called a “Beam.” According to the requirement, there are different types of beams used in construction.

What is Column? – A vertical member of the structure that transfers the compression load is called “Column.”

The column and beam both are transferring the stress to the foundation but only differ in orientation.

Take an example,

Take a rod and support it on two edges. Now place the load on top of it. It is known as a beam. It transfers the bending load created by the load placed on it.
Take the same rod. Hold it vertically and place a load on top of it. It is known as a column. It transfers the compressive load created by the load placed on it.

The column and beam both are transferring the stress to the foundation but there is a difference between beam and column by the way of the load transfer.

Beam and Column – Comparison Table

Spec	Beam	Column
Load Transferring	A Beam transferring the load perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.	A Column transferring the load parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Way of Load Resistance	Basically, Beam resists the transverse load of the structure.	Columns are resisting the compression load of the structure.
Shape	Beam Shape can be square, rectangular, T /I shape.	Column Shape can be square, rectangular, Circular, and T /L shape.
Steel Consumption	Minimum and maximum steel usage of a beam is 0.25% to 2.5% respectively.	Minimum and maximum steel usage of a column is 0.8% to 5% respectively.
Support	Beams are supported by the column at both ends or one end.	Columns are directly built from the foundation.
Classification	The Beam is classified based on its support.	Columns are classified as short columns and long columns based on the Slenderness Ratio.
Failure	As above said the beam has received transverse load and it should not fail suddenly. The failure of the beam will show symptoms like crack or deflection.	The failure of a column will not show any symptoms and it happens suddenly without any warning. The column failure will make fatal damages.