What are the different types of construction beams available in the market?

Beams are structural elements that resist loads applied laterally to their axis. They naturally transfer loads imposed along their length to their end points where the loads are transferred to walls, columns, foundations, etc.

Beams may be:

1. Simply supported: that is they are supported at both ends but are free to rotate.
2. Fixed: supported at both ends and fixed to resist rotation.
3. Overhanging: overhanging their supports at one or both ends.
4. Continuous: extending over more than two supports.
5. Cantilevered: supported only at one end

They may be statistically determinate, that is, their reactions can be solved utilizing equilibrium conditions, or they can be statistically indeterminate. Historically, beams were formed from timber, but they may also be manufactured from steel, or concrete, or they may be composite constructions. A wide variety of cross-section shapes are commonly available, including; square, rectangle, circular, I-shaped, T-shaped, C-shaped, tubular, etc. Beams may be straight, curved or tapered.  

Universal beam: this is a beam with an ‘I’ or ‘H’ -shaped cross-section, available in a variety of standard sizes. It is a very efficient form for carrying bending and shear loads in the plane of the web
Trussed beam: trussed beams are strengthened by the addition of cables or rods to form a truss
Hip beam: common in roofs, where they form the angled, inclined hip of the roof, supporting other load-bearing beams which branch away from them on either side and slope down to the eaves
Composite beam: these are formed from 2 or more dissimilar materials, such as concrete-steel beams. Down-stand beams, flitch beams and shallow floors are examples of composite beams.