In steel beam behavior, the dispersion of load from the flange into the web is commonly assumed to spread uniformly at what angle θ to the flange plane?

Introduction / Context:
When loads are applied to a steel beam flange (e.g., via floor systems or brackets), they transfer into the web through a dispersion mechanism. For simplified design checks—such as bearing, web crippling, and local web compressive checks—an assumed uniform dispersion angle is used to estimate load distribution from flange to web.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Member: rolled or built-up I-section.
• Load path: from loaded flange into web.
• Assumption: uniform dispersion at a standard angle θ to the flange plane.

Concept / Approach:
Design aids often take a conservative, codified dispersion angle to convert concentrated flange loads into an equivalent bearing width in the web, simplifying local checks. A commonly adopted value in traditional exam literature is θ = 20°, which leads to manageable bearing lengths without overestimating web capacity. This is an approximation for preliminary or code-aligned checks rather than a substitute for detailed finite element modeling.

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