The beam is a structural element in which one of the overall dimensions is much larger than the other two. The beam can resist load in all directions, which distinguishes it from the rod, which can only resist load along its longitudinal axis.

Beams are widely used in construction, being present in most buildings with some specific exceptions (for example, buildings with beamless slabs or vaulted structures).

Depending on the way of fastening, the beams have different static schemes – simple beam (with articulated supports at both ends), bracket (one end is clamped and the other free), continuous beam (with more than two articulated supports), gerber beam (with more than two joint supports and intermediate joints), etc. The beam can be made of any construction material (reinforced concrete, steel, wood, aluminum, etc.), as well as have a combined cross section, including different materials (steel and wood, steel and reinforced concrete, etc.).

Beams can be solid and rod (trusses). The cross section of solid reinforced concrete beams is most often rectangular, T-shaped or L-shaped. In the case of solid steel beams, it depends on the steel profile from which it is made.