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Steel Section Properties

AISC W-Shapes · A, Ix, Sx, Zx, Iy, ry

When to use: Look up cross-sectional properties for common AISC W-shapes when sizing beams and columns. Select a shape to read its area A, moment of inertia Ix, section moduli Sx / Zx, weak-axis Iy, and radius of gyration ry. The plastic modulus Zx drives flexural strength for compact members (LRFD φMn = 0.9·Fy·Zx).

Shape Selection
Key Relations
Sx = Ix / (d/2) (elastic modulus)
Zx = plastic section modulus
ry = √(Iy / A) (weak axis)
φMn = 0.9·Fy·Zx (compact)
Mn = Fy·Zx (plastic moment)
W12x26
Plastic Section Modulus Zx
37.2
in³
Results
Area A7.65 in²
Depth d12.2 in
Moment of Inertia Ix204 in⁴
Elastic Modulus Sx33.4 in³
Plastic Modulus Zx37.2 in³
Moment of Inertia Iy17.3 in⁴
Radius of Gyration ry1.51 in
Weight26 lb/ft
φMn (compact, Fy=50)139.5 kip·ft
Derived Note

Bending capacity (compact, Fy=50): φMn = 0.9·Fy·Zx/12 = 139.5 kip·ft

References
AISC Steel Construction Manual v15
AISC Shapes Database v15.0
ASTM A992 — Fy=50 ksi typical