Beam Stress and Deflection Calculator
Calculate bending stress, shear, and deflection for common beam scenarios.
Determine the structural integrity of your design. This tool calculates the Max Deflection (δ) and Bending Stress (σ) based on the beam’s material, cross-section, and loading conditions.
1. Beam Configuration
mm
N
2. Cross Section & Material
mm
mm
MPa
Diagram is representative only
Analysis Results
Max Deflection (δ)
—
Span / —
Max Bending Stress (σ)
—
Section Properties
Moment of Inertia (I)
— mm⁴
Neutral Axis Dist (c)
— mm
Calculated Moment (M)
— N·mm
Formulas & Engineering Context
Bending Stress (σ)
c = Dist to Neutral Axis
I = Moment of Inertia
σ = (M · c) / I
M = Bending Momentc = Dist to Neutral Axis
I = Moment of Inertia
Deflection (δ)
Fn(Load, Length, E, I)
Depends on support type (see below). E = Young’s Modulus.Simply Supported vs. Cantilever Beams
Simply Supported: A beam resting on two supports at its ends. Common in bridges and floor joists. The maximum deflection occurs at the center.
Cantilever: A beam fixed at one end and free at the other. Common in balconies and crane arms. Deflection is significantly higher for the same load compared to supported beams.
Cantilever: A beam fixed at one end and free at the other. Common in balconies and crane arms. Deflection is significantly higher for the same load compared to supported beams.
How is Moment of Inertia (I) calculated?
The Moment of Inertia measures a beam’s resistance to bending based on its shape.
- Rectangle:
I = (b × h³) / 12 - Solid Circle:
I = (π × D⁴) / 64 - Hollow Tube:
I = π × (D⁴ - d⁴) / 64
Common Deflection Formulas
- SS Center Load:
δ = (P × L³) / (48 × E × I) - SS Uniform Load:
δ = (5 × w × L⁴) / (384 × E × I) - Cantilever End Load:
δ = (P × L³) / (3 × E × I)
