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Reaction Force Formula:
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A simply supported beam is a structural element that rests on two supports, one at each end, allowing rotation but not translation. It's one of the most common structural elements in engineering, used in bridges, buildings, and various mechanical systems.
The calculator uses the reaction force formula:
Where:
Explanation: For a simply supported beam with a uniformly distributed load, the reaction forces at both supports are equal, each carrying half of the total load.
Details: Calculating reaction forces is essential for structural analysis, ensuring beams are properly supported, and determining the internal forces (shear and bending moment) that will develop in the beam.
Tips: Enter the uniform load in N/m and beam length in meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the reaction force at each support.
Q1: What if the load is not uniform?
A: Different formulas apply for point loads, triangular loads, or other load distributions. The reaction forces would not be equal in those cases.
Q2: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula applies only to statically determinate beams with uniform loads. For complex loading conditions or indeterminate structures, more advanced methods are needed.
Q3: What units should I use?
A: While we've used N and m in this calculator, you can use any consistent unit system (e.g., kN and m, or lb and ft).
Q4: How does beam material affect the calculation?
A: The reaction force calculation depends only on the loading and geometry, not the material. However, material properties determine whether the beam can withstand these forces.
Q5: What about safety factors?
A: Engineering design typically applies safety factors to calculated loads. This calculator provides theoretical values that should be multiplied by appropriate safety factors for design purposes.