1. What is Bending Moment?

Bending Moment is the reaction induced in a structural element when an external force or moment is applied to the element, causing the element to bend. It is a crucial parameter in structural engineering for designing beams and other load-bearing elements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( M \) — Bending Moment (N·m)
• \( P \) — Point Load acting on a beam (N)
• \( x \) — Distance from Support to the point on the beam (m)

Explanation: This formula calculates the bending moment at any point along a simply supported beam subjected to a point load at the mid-point.

3. Importance of Bending Moment Calculation

Details: Accurate bending moment calculation is essential for structural design, ensuring that beams and other structural elements can safely support applied loads without excessive deformation or failure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter point load in Newtons (N) and distance from support in meters (m). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a simply supported beam?
A: A simply supported beam is a structural element that rests on supports at both ends, allowing rotation at the supports but preventing translation.

Q2: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula is specifically for simply supported beams with a point load applied at the mid-point of the beam span.

Q3: What are typical units for bending moment?
A: Bending moment is typically measured in Newton-meters (N·m) or pound-feet (lb·ft) in engineering applications.

Q4: How does bending moment affect beam design?
A: Bending moment determines the required strength and size of a beam. Higher bending moments require stronger, larger beam sections to prevent failure.

Q5: Can this formula be used for distributed loads?
A: No, this formula is specifically for point loads. Different formulas are used for uniformly distributed loads or other load types.