Structural calculator

Beam Bending Calculator

Check simply supported center-load and cantilever end-load beams.

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Calculator

Enter structural values

Select units beside each input. Results update automatically.

Structural

Result

About this calculator

How it works

This calculator uses common closed-form beam equations for quick screening checks.

Formulas

Formulas used

Simply supported moment

Mmax = P L / 4

Cantilever moment

Mmax = P L

Bending stress

sigma = M c / I

Worked example

Example calculation

Deflection

Simply supported 1 kN, 2 m beam: delta = P L^3 / (48 E I)

Guide

How to use this calculator

Enter the relevant load, stress, geometry, material, or member values.
Select units beside each input where unit menus are shown.
Use the highlighted result for screening, then check assumptions before design use.

Reference

What the results mean

Bending stress

Normal stress from bending moment.

Deflection

Estimated maximum elastic displacement.

Assumptions and limits

Before using the result

These are simplified elastic or empirical checks for early-stage engineering review.
Final structural design requires correct boundary conditions, load paths, code checks, material data, factors of safety, and professional review.
Complex tools here provide key values or simplified estimates rather than a full structural analysis model.

FAQ

Beam Bending Calculator questions

Are these results suitable for final structural design?

Use these calculators for education, screening, and early checks only. Final structural design must follow applicable codes, load combinations, safety factors, material data, and qualified engineering review.

Why can real structures differ from these results?

Real structures include boundary conditions, imperfections, connection behavior, load eccentricity, dynamics, residual stress, buckling modes, fatigue, and code-specific requirements.

Can I use different units?

Yes. Select units beside inputs where menus are shown. Values are converted internally before solving.