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Maximum Deflection Formula:
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The maximum deflection formula for a simply supported aluminum beam under uniform load calculates the maximum vertical displacement at the center of the beam. This is crucial for structural engineering applications to ensure beams meet design requirements.
The calculator uses the beam deflection formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum deflection at the center of a simply supported beam subjected to a uniformly distributed load.
Details: Calculating beam deflection is essential for structural design to ensure that beams don't deflect beyond acceptable limits, which could lead to structural failure or serviceability issues.
Tips: Enter the uniform load in N/m, beam length in meters, aluminum modulus in Pa (typically 69 GPa for aluminum), and moment of inertia in m⁴. All values must be positive.
Q1: What is the typical modulus of elasticity for aluminum?
A: The modulus of elasticity for aluminum is typically around 69 GPa (69,000,000,000 Pa), though it can vary slightly depending on the specific aluminum alloy.
Q2: How do I calculate moment of inertia?
A: Moment of inertia depends on the cross-sectional shape of the beam. For common shapes like rectangular or I-beams, standard formulas are available in engineering handbooks.
Q3: What are acceptable deflection limits?
A: Deflection limits vary by application but are often specified as a fraction of the span length (e.g., L/360 for floors, L/240 for roofs).
Q4: Does this formula work for other materials?
A: Yes, the formula is valid for any linearly elastic material. You would just need to use the appropriate modulus of elasticity for the material.
Q5: What if the load is not uniform?
A: Different formulas are needed for concentrated loads or varying load distributions. This calculator specifically handles uniformly distributed loads.