Wood Beam Size Calculator Canada

Canadian Wood Beam Deflection Formula:

\[ d_{req} = \left( \frac{w L^4 \times 384}{5 E I_{allow}} \right)^{1/3} \]

Uniform Load (w):

N/mm

Span Length (L):

Modulus of Elasticity (E):

MPa

Allowable Moment of Inertia (I_allow):

mm⁴

Required Depth (d_req):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Canadian Wood Beam Deflection Formula?

The Canadian wood beam deflection formula calculates the required depth of a wood beam based on deflection limits. This formula ensures that beams meet Canadian building code requirements for structural performance and safety.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Canadian wood beam formula:

\[ d_{req} = \left( \frac{w L^4 \times 384}{5 E I_{allow}} \right)^{1/3} \]

Where:

\( d_{req} \) — Required beam depth (mm)
\( w \) — Uniform load (N/mm)
\( L \) — Span length (mm)
\( E \) — Modulus of elasticity (MPa)
\( I_{allow} \) — Allowable moment of inertia (mm⁴)

Explanation: The formula calculates the minimum beam depth required to limit deflection under the specified load conditions according to Canadian engineering standards.

3. Importance of Beam Depth Calculation

Details: Proper beam depth calculation is essential for structural integrity, ensuring beams can support intended loads without excessive deflection that could compromise safety and serviceability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter uniform load in N/mm, span length in mm, modulus of elasticity in MPa, and allowable moment of inertia in mm⁴. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical modulus of elasticity for Canadian wood?
A: Modulus of elasticity varies by wood species. Common values range from 8,000-14,000 MPa for softwoods and 10,000-16,000 MPa for hardwoods used in Canadian construction.

Q2: How is allowable moment of inertia determined?
A: Allowable moment of inertia is based on the wood species, grade, and Canadian building code requirements for the specific application and load conditions.

Q3: What deflection limits are used in Canadian building codes?
A: Canadian codes typically specify deflection limits of L/360 for live loads and L/240 for total loads, where L is the span length.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for all wood beam types?
A: This calculator is designed for simple rectangular wood beams. Different formulas may be needed for engineered wood products or complex beam configurations.

Q5: Are safety factors included in this calculation?
A: The formula incorporates appropriate safety factors as per Canadian engineering standards and building code requirements.