In structural engineering, beams and columns form a fundamental part of many building frames. Columns are vertical supports, while beams are horizontal elements that carry loads and transfer them to the columns. Within a structural frame, beams can be connected in different ways, creating a hierarchy of load transfer.

Some beams are designed to connect directly to the main vertical supports, which are the columns. These beams are crucial because they act as the primary load-carrying elements for other structural components like slabs or smaller beams. The question asks specifically for the name of the beams that have this direct connection to the columns.

Beams Connected to Columns

The term used to describe the main beams that connect directly into the columns of a structure is 'Girders'. Girders are typically the principal beams in a structural system, spanning between columns and supporting the secondary beams or floor slabs. They play a vital role in transferring the vertical loads down through the columns to the foundation.

Let's look at the options provided:

• Girders: These are the main beams connecting directly to columns, supporting other beams or loads. This matches our understanding.
• Grid beams: These are beams arranged in a grid pattern, often supporting slabs. They may connect to girders or columns depending on the specific design, but the term 'Girder' is specifically for beams directly connected to columns as the primary supports.
• Column heads: These are enlargements at the top of columns, often used in flat slab construction, not a type of beam.
• Secondary beams: These beams typically frame into other beams (like girders) rather than directly into columns. They carry loads from the floor or roof to the main beams.

Based on standard structural terminology, the beams that are directly connected to the columns are known as Girders.