IPN vs IPE Beam: Key Differences
The IPN vs IPE beam comparison is fundamental when selecting European I-beams for structural applications. Both are standardized under EN 10034 and hot-rolled from grades S235, S275, or S355 per EN 10025, but they differ in flange geometry, weight, and structural efficiency. IPE beams have parallel flanges, while IPN beams (also called INP) have tapered flanges that slope inward at approximately 14%.
IPN vs IPE Beam Comparison Table
| Parameter | IPN (Standard I-Beam) | IPE (European I-Beam) |
|---|---|---|
| Flange type | Tapered (14% slope) | Parallel |
| Flange inner surface | Inclined | Flat |
| Web-to-flange transition | Larger fillet radius | Smaller fillet radius |
| Weight (same depth) | Heavier | Lighter |
| Section modulus (same depth) | Lower | Higher |
| Moment of inertia (same depth) | Lower | Higher |
| Bolt connections | Require tapered washers | Direct bolting |
| Standard | EN 10024 | EN 10034 |
| Size range | IPN 80 to IPN 600 | IPE 80 to IPE 750 |
| Modern availability | Declining | Widely available |
Dimensional Comparison (200 mm Depth)
| Property | IPN 200 | IPE 200 |
|---|---|---|
| Height (h) | 200 mm | 200 mm |
| Flange width (b) | 90 mm | 100 mm |
| Web thickness (tw) | 7.5 mm | 5.6 mm |
| Flange thickness (tf) | 11.3 mm | 8.5 mm |
| Weight | 26.2 kg/m | 22.4 kg/m |
| Moment of inertia (Iy) | 2,140 cm4 | 1,943 cm4 |
| Section modulus (Wy) | 214 cm3 | 194 cm3 |
| Cross-sectional area | 33.4 cm2 | 28.5 cm2 |
Despite the IPN 200 being 17% heavier, its moment of inertia is only 10% higher than the IPE 200. This demonstrates the superior strength-to-weight ratio of the IPE series.
Key Differences
Structural efficiency: IPE beams deliver more load capacity per kilogram of steel. The parallel flange geometry concentrates material in the flanges where bending stresses are highest, resulting in a better strength-to-weight ratio than IPN sections.
Connection simplicity: IPE parallel flanges allow direct bolted connections without tapered washers. IPN tapered flanges require special washers (per EN 14399-6) to ensure even bolt load distribution, increasing fabrication time and cost.
Availability: IPE sections have largely replaced IPN in new construction across Europe. IPN beams are still specified for replacement projects in older structures or in regions where legacy standards apply.
Cost: IPE beams are generally less expensive per meter because they use less steel for comparable performance. IPN beams may carry a price premium due to lower production volumes.
For applications requiring wider flanges and higher load capacity than IPE beams, consider HEA or HEB wide-flange beams, which provide significantly greater moment of inertia for the same nominal depth.
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