Enter the load in pounds and the span in feet into the calculator to determine the required beam size in inches. This calculator assumes a uniformly distributed load and a rectangular beam cross-section.
Beam Size Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the beam size.
h = (6 * M)^{(1/3)}Variables:
- M is the maximum bending moment (pound-feet)
- h is the required beam height (inches)
To calculate the beam size, first calculate the maximum bending moment using the formula M = wL^2 / 8, where w is the load in pounds and L is the span in feet. Then, calculate the required beam height (h) using the formula h = (6 * M)^(1/3).
What is Beam Size?
Beam size refers to the cross-sectional dimensions of a beam that are required to support a given load over a span without exceeding the material’s allowable stress. The size is typically described by the beam’s height and width, which directly relate to the beam’s strength and ability to resist bending. Proper beam sizing is crucial in construction and engineering to ensure the safety and integrity of structures.
How to Calculate Beam Size?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Beam Size.
- First, determine the load (w) in pounds that the beam will support.
- Next, determine the span (L) in feet over which the beam will support the load.
- Calculate the maximum bending moment (M) using the formula M = wL^2 / 8.
- Finally, calculate the required beam height (h) in inches using the formula h = (6 * M)^(1/3).
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Load (w) = 1000 pounds
Span (L) = 10 feet
