What does the designation (S 10x50) indicate?

The designation (S 10x50) represents a structural steel shape, specifically a standard S-beam or wide flange beam. The "S" indicates that the shape is a structural steel S-beam. The first number, 10, refers to the nominal height of the beam in inches; in this case, it means the beam is 10 inches tall. The second number, 50, indicates the weight of the beam per linear foot, which means it weighs 50 pounds for each foot of length.

Understanding this designation is crucial in construction and engineering contexts, as it provides essential information about the size and strength of the beam necessary for structural applications. An awareness of the dimensions and weight helps engineers and builders make informed decisions regarding structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.