Enter the shear force, first moment of area, and section modulus into the calculator to determine the shear flow. This calculator helps in assessing the shear flow in beams and other structural elements.

Shear Flow Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the shear flow.

q = (V * Q) / I

Variables:

  • q is the shear flow (N/mm)
  • V is the shear force (N)
  • Q is the first moment of area (mm4)
  • I is the section modulus (mm3)

To calculate the shear flow, multiply the shear force by the first moment of area, then divide by the section modulus.

What is Shear Flow?

Shear flow is a measure of how a shear force is distributed over a cross-section of a beam. It is a critical parameter in the design and analysis of beams and other structural components, as it helps to determine the shear stress distribution within the material. Understanding shear flow is essential for ensuring that structures can withstand the forces they are subjected to without failing.

How to Calculate Shear Flow?

The following steps outline how to calculate the shear flow.

  1. First, determine the shear force (V) in Newtons (N).
  2. Next, determine the first moment of area (Q) in millimeters to the fourth power (mm4).
  3. Next, determine the section modulus (I) in millimeters cubed (mm3).
  4. Next, gather the formula from above = q = (V * Q) / I.
  5. Finally, calculate the shear flow (q) in Newtons per millimeter (N/mm).
  6. 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.

shear force (V) = 5000 N

first moment of area (Q) = 200 mm4

section modulus (I) = 10000 mm3