Beam Load, Reaction Force & Bending Moment Calculator
Structural beam load analysis evaluates support reaction forces, shear force diagrams (SFD), and bending moment diagrams (BMD).
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📐 Formula
💡 Practical Example
16 ft simply supported beam with 3,000 lb point load at 6 ft from left support + 100 lbs/ft UDL: Point Load: a = 6 ft, b = 10 ft. R1_p = 3,000 × 10 / 16 = 1,875 lbs. R2_p = 1,125 lbs. UDL: R1_u = R2_u = 100 × 16 / 2 = 800 lbs. Total R1 = 2,675 lbs | Total R2 = 1,925 lbs | Max Moment = 11,250 + 3,200 = 14,450 lb-ft.
📖 About Beam Load, Reaction Force & Bending Moment Calculator
Structural beam load analysis evaluates support reaction forces, shear force diagrams (SFD), and bending moment diagrams (BMD). Determining maximum shear and bending moment ensures beam cross-sections meet AISC / NDS material strength limits.
To use the Beam Load, Reaction Force & Bending Moment Calculator, enter your Beam Span Length (L), Point Load (P), Point Load Distance from Left Support (a) and other values. The calculator instantly computes Left Support Reaction Force (R1), Right Support Reaction Force (R2) and more. Results update in real time as you change any input — no submit button needed.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter your Beam Span Length (L) (e.g. 16 in ft / m), Point Load (P) (e.g. 3000 in lbs / kN), Point Load Distance from Left Support (a) (e.g. 6 in ft / m), and Uniformly Distributed Load (w) (e.g. 100 in lbs/ft / kN/m). Results update instantly as you type — adjust any value to compare scenarios.
The Formula
Left Reaction R1 = (P × b / L) + (w × L / 2)
Right Reaction R2 = (P × a / L) + (w × L / 2)
Max Point Load Moment = (P × a × b) / L | Max UDL Moment = (w × L²) / 8
Worked Example
16 ft simply supported beam with 3,000 lb point load at 6 ft from left support + 100 lbs/ft UDL:
Point Load: a = 6 ft, b = 10 ft. R1_p = 3,000 × 10 / 16 = 1,875 lbs. R2_p = 1,125 lbs.
UDL: R1_u = R2_u = 100 × 16 / 2 = 800 lbs.
Total R1 = 2,675 lbs | Total R2 = 1,925 lbs | Max Moment = 11,250 + 3,200 = 14,450 lb-ft.
Understanding Your Result
Evaluate your result in the context of your specific use case and relevant industry standards or reference values. A single calculated result is a starting point — test two to three scenarios to understand how sensitive the outcome is to your key input assumptions. For high-stakes decisions, verify your result against a secondary source or subject-matter expert before acting.
💡 Methodological Standards & Calculation Accuracy
- All calculations are performed client-side in your browser using verified, standards-compliant mathematical algorithms.
- Results are provided for educational and informational analysis; verify critical applications with certified domain specialists.
- Ensure input values are entered in consistent units matching the selector options to guarantee accurate outputs.
- Periodic recalibration is recommended whenever baseline assumptions, operating parameters, or external conditions change.
Results are for informational and educational purposes only. Always verify critical decisions with a qualified professional.