Wide Flange Beam Span Calculator

Maximum Span Formula:

\[ L_{max} = \sqrt{ \frac{360 \cdot \delta_{allow} \cdot E \cdot I}{w} } \]

Allowable Deflection (δ_allow):

Modulus of Elasticity (E):

Moment of Inertia (I):

m⁴

Uniform Load (w):

N/m

Maximum Span (L_max):

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1. What is the Maximum Span Formula?

The maximum span formula calculates the longest allowable span for a wide flange beam based on deflection limitations. It determines the maximum distance between supports while maintaining structural integrity under a uniform load.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the maximum span formula:

\[ L_{max} = \sqrt{ \frac{360 \cdot \delta_{allow} \cdot E \cdot I}{w} } \]

Where:

\( L_{max} \) — Maximum span (m)
\( \delta_{allow} \) — Allowable deflection (m)
\( E \) — Modulus of elasticity (Pa)
\( I \) — Moment of inertia (m⁴)
\( w \) — Uniform load (N/m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum beam span that will not exceed the allowable deflection under a given uniform load, considering the beam's material properties and cross-sectional characteristics.

3. Importance of Maximum Span Calculation

Details: Accurate span calculation is crucial for structural design, ensuring beams can safely support intended loads without excessive deflection that could compromise structural integrity or serviceability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter allowable deflection in meters, modulus of elasticity in Pascals, moment of inertia in meters to the fourth power, and uniform load in Newtons per meter. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a wide flange beam?
A: A wide flange beam is an I-beam with wider flanges than standard I-beams, providing better resistance to bending in both directions.

Q2: How is allowable deflection determined?
A: Allowable deflection is typically specified by building codes and varies based on the structure's purpose, usually ranging from L/180 to L/360 of the span.

Q3: What are typical values for modulus of elasticity?
A: For structural steel, E is typically 200 GPa (200 × 10⁹ Pa). For aluminum, it's about 69 GPa (69 × 10⁹ Pa).

Q4: Where can I find moment of inertia values for specific beams?
A: Moment of inertia values are provided in steel manufacturer catalogs and engineering handbooks for standard beam sizes.

Q5: Does this formula account for other types of loading?
A: This specific formula is for uniform loads. Different formulas are needed for concentrated loads or other load configurations.