I-BEAM JOIST HAVING OPENINGS FORMED THEREIN FOR MECHANICAL ACCESS

摘要

The I-beam of this invention is formed from a pair of parallel flange members and a continuous web material affixed to and joining the flange members. The web material is formed so as to define a plurality of differently shaped holes therein that provide access for mechanical elements without compromising the compressive and tensile load capability of the I-beam. The web material is preferably formed from OSB and even more preferably 5/8 inch thick OSB. In addition, the I-beam of this invention preferably has one end where the web material is continuous and does not define any openings therein. This portion of the I-beam thus allows the I-beam to be trimmed so standard lengths of the I-beam can be cut to the desired length for a particular application.