Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Central Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Side Top Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Side Bottom Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Side Top Bending Moment

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Central Bending Moment

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 θ = slope of member, radians
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Side UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Roller) - Outward Side UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Top Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or mm

Three Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Top Horizontal Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Three Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Side Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 y = vertical distance from reaction point, in or mm

Three Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Three Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Side UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Fixed) - Central Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Fixed) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C, D & E = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Fixed) - Side UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:33

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Free End Horizontal Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Free End Vertical Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Side Top Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

Three Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Free End Bending Moment

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Top Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Pin / Pin) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Fixed) - Top Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Fixed) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Pin) - Top Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Pin) - Side Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B, C & D = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 y = vertical distance from reaction point, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Pin) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Pin) - Side UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:33

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Free End Vertical Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 θ = slope of member, radians

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Free End Horizontal Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or N
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Free End Bending Moment

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm

Two Member Frame (Fixed / Free) - Top UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:32

The above frame formulas may be used with both imperial and metric units. As with all
calculations care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout with examples of units which
should be adopted listed below:

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 A, B & C = points of interest on frame
 h = height of frame, in or mm
 H = horizontal reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 Ih = horizontal member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 Iv = vertical member second moment of area, in4 or mm4
 L = span length under consideration, in or mm
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or Nmm
 R = vertical reaction load at bearing point, lbf or N
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or N/mm
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or mm
 Simply Supported Beam - With UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Uniformly Increasing Load to One End

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 W = total load or wL/2, lbf or kN
 w = highest load per unit length of UIL, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Uniformly Increasing Load to Centre

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 W = total load or wL/2, lbf or kN
 w = highest load per unit length of UIL, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - UDL at Any Point

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a, b & c = position and length of UDL, in or m
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - UDL at One End

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - UDL at Each End

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a, b & c = width and seperation of UDLs, in or m
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Simple Beam - Point Load at Centre

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Point Load at Any Point

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = distance to point load, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Two Point Loads Equally Spaced

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a = distance to point load, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Two Equal Point Loads Unequally Spaced

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = distance to point load, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Two Unequal Point Loads Unequally Spaced

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = distances to point loads, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m
 Simple Beam - Uniformly Distributed Load and Variable End Moments

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Simple Beam - Central Point Load and Variable End Moments

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Fixed End Beam - UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Fixed End Beam - Central Point Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Fixed End Beam - Point Load at Any Point

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:30

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = distance to point load, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Fixed Both Ends Beam - UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

ixed Both Ends Beam - Point Load at Centre

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Fixed Both Ends Beam - Point Load at Any Point

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = span length under consideration, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Cantilever Beam - UIL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 W = total load or wL/2, lbf or kN
 w = highest load per unit length of UIL, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Cantilever Beam - Uniformly Distributed Load

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Cantilever Beam - UDL with Vertical Deflection but no Rotation

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Cantilever Beam - Point Load at Any Point

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Cantilever Beam - Point Load at Free End

More Beams

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Cantilever Beam - Point Load Free to Deflect Vertically with No Rotation

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Overhanging Beam - UDL

Notation
 FBD = free body diagram
 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Overhanging Beam - UDL on Overhang

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31
 The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Overhanging Beam - Point Load on Beam End

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31
 The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Overhanging Beam - UDL Over Supported Span

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:
 Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Overhanging Beam - Point Load Between Supports at Any Point

Notation and Units

 Metric and Imperial Units
Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Overhanging Beam - Overhang Both Supports with a UDL

Notation and Units

 Metric and Imperial Units
Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a, b & c = span length under consideration, in or m
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = overall length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Continuous Beam - Two Span with One Span UDL

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31
 The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagramE = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Continuous Beam - Two Span with Central Point Load Over One Span

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31
 The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m

Continuous Beam - Two Span with Point Load Over One Span at Any Point

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31
 The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b= distance to point load, in or m
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN

Continuous Beams – Two Equal Spans with UDL

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 E = modulus of elasticity, psi or MPa
 I = second moment of area, in4 or m4
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 ∆ = deflection or deformation, in or m

Continuous Beam – Two Equal Spans with Central Point Loads

Notation and Units

 Metric and Imperial Units
Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 L = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Continuous Beam - Two Unequal Span With UDL

 Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN
 w = load per unit length, lbf/in or kN/m
 x = horizontal distance from reaction point, in or m

Continuous Beam - Two Unequal Spans with Point Loads Central to Each Span

Notation and Units

Metric and Imperial Units

 Page last modified on: 03/10/2022 11:47:31

The above beam design and deflection equations may be used with both imperial and metric
units. As with all calculations/formulas care must be taken to keep consistent units throughout
with examples of units which should be adopted listed below:

Notation

 FBD = free body diagram

 SFD = shear force diagram
 BMD = bending moment diagram
 a & b = span length under consideration, in or m
 M = maximum bending moment, lbf.in or kNm
 P = total concentrated load, lbf or kN
 R = reaction load at bearing point, lbf or kN
 V = maximum shear force, lbf or kN