European Standard Beams IPN (INP) – Stainless Steel
IPN beams (also designated INP in older European conventions) are the classical European narrow-flange I-sections with tapered inner flanges, predating the IPE series. Although the IPE series has largely superseded IPN for new structural design, IPN beams remain in active use for replacement and refurbishment projects, as well as in certain markets where they are the specified section. The characteristic tapered flanges distinguish them from the parallel-flange IPE. Montanstahl produces stainless steel IPN beams across the standard range, primarily by laser welding with inclined internal surface of the flanges and dimensions according to EN 10365, product tolerances are characterized through EN 10024: 1995 enabling supply in a wide range of corrosion-resistant grades.
Key Applications & Use Cases
- Replacement of existing IPN beams in refurbishment and upgrade projects requiring stainless steel for corrosion resistance
- Secondary structural members in chemical plant buildings and process facilities
- Framing for tank covers, access platforms, and inspection walkways in water treatment
- Structural elements in heritage restoration projects where IPN geometry must be maintained
- Machine tool bases and precision equipment frames where the IPN section geometry is advantageous
- Custom crane and lifting beam designs built to older national standards
- Export projects to markets where IPN / INP sections remain the standard specification
Available Stainless Steel Grades
1.4301 (AISI 304) and 1.4404 (AISI 316L) as standard. Other austenitic and duplex grades available on request.
We can manufacture custom-made IPN profiles with tailored dimensions and lengths
IPN Standard Beams Product Catalog – Stainless Steel Only
| Description | Execution | G kg/m | h | b | tw | tf | r1 | r2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPN 80 | Extruded | 6.1 | 80 | 42 | 3.9 | 5.9 | 3.9 | 2.3 |
| IPN 80 | Laser | 6.1 | 80 | 42 | 3.9 | 5.9 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 100 | Extruded | 8.48 | 100 | 50 | 4.5 | 6.8 | 4.5 | 2.7 |
| IPN 100 | Laser | 8.6 | 100 | 50 | 4.5 | 6.8 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 120 | Extruded | 11.36 | 120 | 58 | 5.1 | 7.7 | 5.1 | 3.1 |
| IPN 120 | Laser | 11.4 | 120 | 58 | 5.1 | 7.7 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 140 | Extruded | 14.56 | 140 | 66 | 5.7 | 8.6 | 5.7 | 3.4 |
| IPN 140 | Laser | 14.7 | 140 | 66 | 5.7 | 8.6 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 160 | Extruded | 18.24 | 160 | 74 | 6.3 | 9.5 | 6.3 | 3.8 |
| IPN 160 | Laser | 18.4 | 160 | 74 | 6.3 | 9.5 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 180 | Extruded | 22.32 | 180 | 82 | 6.9 | 10.4 | 6.9 | 4.1 |
| IPN 180 | Laser | 22.5 | 180 | 82 | 6.9 | 10.4 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 200 | Extruded | 26.72 | 200 | 90 | 7.5 | 11.3 | 7.5 | 4.5 |
| IPN 200 | Laser | 26.9 | 200 | 90 | 7.5 | 11.3 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 220 | Laser | 31.8 | 220 | 98 | 8.1 | 12.2 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 240 | Laser | 37.1 | 240 | 106 | 8.7 | 13.1 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 260 | Laser | 43 | 260 | 113 | 9.4 | 14.1 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 280 | Laser | 49.1 | 280 | 119 | 10.1 | 15.2 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 300 | Laser | 55.5 | 300 | 125 | 10.8 | 16.2 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 320 | Laser | 62.5 | 320 | 131 | 11.5 | 17.3 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 340 | Laser | 69.8 | 340 | 137 | 12.2 | 18.3 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 360 | Laser | 78 | 360 | 143 | 13 | 19.5 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 380 | Laser | 86.1 | 380 | 149 | 13.7 | 20.5 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 400 | Laser | 94.7 | 400 | 155 | 14.4 | 21.6 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 450 | Laser | 118.1 | 450 | 170 | 16.2 | 24.3 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 500 | Laser | 144.2 | 500 | 185 | 18 | 27 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 550 | Laser | 170.5 | 550 | 200 | 19 | 30 | 2 | <1 |
| IPN 600 | Laser | 204 | 600 | 215 | 21.6 | 32.4 | 2 | <1 |
INP Standard Beams FAQ
What is the flange taper angle of an IPN beam?
IPN beams have a flange taper of approximately 14% on the inner face, more pronounced than the 8% taper found in UPN channels. This results in a thicker flange at the web root than at the tip, which is a legacy of historical hot rolling practice.
Is IPN still used in new structural designs?
For new-build structures, the IPE series is generally preferred due to its parallel flanges and higher structural efficiency. IPN sections remain relevant for replacement components in existing structures, for projects following older national standards, and in markets where IPN-based section tables are still in common use.
Can Montanstahl supply stainless IPN beams from stock?
Selected sizes are held in stock. Less common sizes are produced to order. Given Montanstahl’s laser welding capability, any size in the standard range can be manufactured with relatively short lead times.
What tolerances apply to stainless steel IPN beams?
Dimensional tolerances for IPN beams are defined in EN 10034. As laser welded profiles, dimensional consistency is generally very good, with the laser process allowing precise control of web and flange geometry.
Are IPN beams suitable for use in food-grade applications?
Yes, when manufactured in grade 1.4301 or 1.4404 and supplied with appropriate surface treatment (pickled, passivated, or polished), IPN beams can be used in food processing environments. The EN 10088 material standard and EN 1672-2 food machinery safety standards are relevant references.