How do I know whether I should choose a standard H-beam or a box beam for my budget?

The general rule: for spans under 65 feet and up to approximately 15 to 20 tons, an H-beam does the job very well at a lower cost, whether single or double beam. Beyond that, a box girder often becomes necessary—not to make things more complicated, but because structural rigidity requires it to prevent excessive deflection and ensure the equipment's lifespan. At Protech, we manufacture our box girders in-house using precision robotic welding, giving us tight control over quality without the outsourcing costs. Before deciding on the type of girder, we always recommend consulting our professionals—it's a technical detail that has a real impact on your long-term budget.