📐 Beam Load Calculator
Quickly calculate bending moment, shear force, deflection, and stress checks for beams
📊 Result Chart
❓ FAQ
How do you calculate the maximum bending moment for a simply supported beam?
For a uniformly loaded simply supported beam, the maximum bending moment M = wL²/8, where w is the load per unit length and L is the beam span. The maximum moment occurs at midspan.
What are the deflection formulas for cantilever and fixed beams?
For a uniformly loaded cantilever beam, the maximum deflection δ = wL⁴/(8EI) occurs at the free end. For a fixed-fixed beam, the maximum deflection δ = wL⁴/(384EI) occurs at midspan. E is the elastic modulus and I is the moment of inertia.
How do you select a beam section size?
Select based on the maximum bending moment and allowable stress: the required section modulus S = M/σ_allow. Then find a section from steel or lumber tables that meets this S value. Also verify that shear and deflection satisfy code requirements.