Enter your Beam Length, Modulus of Elasticity, Moment of Inertia, and up to two Point Loads with their positions along the beam, and this Beam Load Calculator returns the Left and Right Support Reactions (Ra, Rb), Maximum Bending Moment, Maximum Shear Force, and Maximum Deflection.
Left Support Reaction (Ra)
--
Right Support Reaction (Rb)
--
Maximum Bending Moment
--
Maximum Shear Force
--
Maximum Deflection
--
A support reaction is the force exerted by a support on a beam to maintain equilibrium. According to Newton's third law, these reactions are equal and opposite to the applied loads.
A simply supported beam is a structural element that rests on two supports - typically one pinned support and one roller support - allowing for rotation but preventing vertical movement at the support points.
Support reactions are calculated using equilibrium equations: sum of vertical forces equals zero and sum of moments about any point equals zero. These equations solve for the unknown reaction forces.
Support reactions are crucial for structural design as they determine the forces transferred to foundations, help in calculating internal forces (shear and moment), and ensure the beam can safely carry the applied loads.
This calculator provides accurate results for simply supported beams with point loads and distributed loads using standard engineering formulas. For complex loading or beam configurations, consult a structural engineer.
The calculator can handle point loads up to 10,000 kN and distributed loads up to 1,000 kN/m. For beams with larger loads, professional structural analysis software is recommended.
Yes, by adjusting the modulus of elasticity input, you can analyze beams made of different materials like steel (200 GPa), concrete (30 GPa), or wood (12 GPa).