1. What is Beam Deflection?

Beam deflection refers to the displacement of a structural element under load. For wood beams with simply supported ends and uniform load, the maximum deflection occurs at the center of the span and can be calculated using the standard formula.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the deflection formula:

Where:

• \( \delta \) — Deflection (in)
• \( w \) — Uniform load (lb/in)
• \( L \) — Length of beam (in)
• \( E \) — Modulus of elasticity (psi)
• \( I \) — Moment of inertia (in⁴)

Explanation: This formula calculates the maximum deflection at the center of a simply supported beam with a uniformly distributed load.

3. Importance of Deflection Calculation

Details: Calculating deflection is crucial in structural design to ensure beams don't sag excessively under load, which could affect functionality, aesthetics, and structural integrity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in the specified units. Ensure all inputs are positive numbers. For accurate results, use consistent units throughout.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical acceptable deflection limit?
A: For most applications, deflection is limited to L/240 to L/360 of the span length, depending on the structure's purpose.

Q2: Does this formula work for other materials?
A: Yes, the formula applies to any homogeneous, isotropic material behaving elastically, though E values differ between materials.

Q3: What if the load is not uniform?
A: Different formulas are needed for concentrated loads or varying load distributions.

Q4: How do I find the moment of inertia for my beam?
A: For rectangular beams, I = (b × h³)/12, where b is width and h is height. Standard values are available for common lumber sizes.

Q5: What are typical E values for wood?
A: E values vary by species: ~1,000,000-1,800,000 psi for softwoods, ~1,400,000-2,000,000 psi for hardwoods.