About the Steel Section Selector Online Free Tool

The Steel Section Selector Online Free Tool estimates required section modulus and indicative moment of inertia from bending moment, allowable stress, span, modulus, and deflection limit.

How to Use the Steel Section Selector Online

1. Enter design moment, allowable bending stress, span, elastic modulus, and deflection limit denominator.
2. Run the calculation to get required Z and indicative I values.
3. Select the next higher standard steel section from your section table.
4. Verify strength, deflection, lateral stability, shear, and code requirements separately.

Choosing Options Correctly

Deflection limit:
Enter the denominator only, such as 360 for L/360.

Material values:
Use MPa for allowable stress and GPa for elastic modulus.

Common Use Cases

• Estimate section demand before checking a steel table.
• Compare deflection criteria for preliminary member selection.
• Screen whether bending strength or stiffness may control.

Quick FAQ

What does this selector estimate?
It suggests a section based on simplified demand and section modulus assumptions.

Does it check buckling?
No. Lateral torsional buckling, local buckling, compression, shear, deflection, and connections need separate checks.

Can I use any available section?
No. Availability, grade, fabrication, fire protection, and project standards still matter.

Is this final steel design?
No. Use it for early sizing and verify with code-compliant structural design.