L1A: THREE MOMENTS THEOREM

 A beam which is supported on more than two supports is called a

continuous beam.
Such a beam when loaded will be deflected with convexity upwards, over
the intermediate supports and with concavity downwards over the mid of
the spans.
 The intermediate supports of a continuous beam are always subjected to
some bending moments.
But the end supports, if fixed, will be subjected to fixing moments and the
slope of the beam, at the fixed ends will be zero.

Bending moment diagrams for continuous beams

 The analysis of a continuous beam is similar to that of a fixed beam.
The bending moment for a continuous beam, under any system of loading
may be drawn in the following two stages:
i. By considering the beam as a series of discontinuous beams from support
to support and drawing the usual u-diagram due to vertical loads.
ii. By superimposing the usual u-diagram, due to end moment over u-diagram.

Clapeyron’s theorem of three moments

 ‘’If a beam has N-supports, the end one being fixed the same number of
equations required to determine the support moments may be obtained
from the consecutive pair of spans i.e. AB-BC, BC-CD, CD-DE and so on’’.
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 Proof of Clapeyron’s theorem of three moments

 Consider a continuous beam ABC, fixed at A and C and supported at B as

shown in figure above.
 Let:
L1 = span AB of beam.
L2 = span BC of beam.
I1 = M.o.I. of the beam in span AB.
I2 = M.o.I. of beam in span BC
MA = support moment at A
MB = support moment at B, and
MC = support moment at C.
ux = bending moment at any section X considering the beam between two
supports as simply supported; and
u’x = fixing moments at any section X of the beam.
 In the span AB, the B.M. at any section X at a distance x from A;
Mx = ux + u’x
M d2 y
Therefore EI1d2y/dx2 = ux + u’x (Therefore EI = dx 2
)

 Multiplying the above equation by x, and integrating the same for the
2
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whole span AB i.e. from 0 to L.

 2
EI 1 x d y
2 = x. uxdx + x. u’xdx - EI1[x. dy
dx
–y] = a1x-1 + a1’x1-‘
dx

Or EI1 [(L1iB – yB) – 0(iA – yA)] = a1x-1 + a1’x1-‘

EI (L1iB – yB) = a1x-1 + a1’x1-‘ …………………………………………………(i)

 Since yB is equal to zero, therefore

EI1L1iB = a1x-1 + a1’x1-‘………………………………………………………….(ii)
Where:
a1 = Area of the u-diagram in the span AB.
x-1 =Distance of centre of gravity of u-diagram from A in the span AB.
a1’ = Area of the u’-diagram in the span AB.
x1-‘= Distance of centre of gravity of u’-diagram from A, and
iB = Slope of the beam AB at B.

 We know that the shape of the u-diagram is trapezoidal, having end

ordinates equal to MA and MB.
Therefore, splitting up the u-diagram into two triangles;
2
L1 L1 L1 2L1 L1
a1x 1 = (MA x
-
2 x 3 ) + (M Bx
2 x 3 ) = (MA + 2MB) 6

Substituting this value of a1x-1 in equation (i)

2

EI1L1iB = a1x 1 + (MA + 2MB) L16

-

a1 X 1 L1
EI1iB = L1 + (MA + 2MB) 6 ……………………………….(iii)

a1 X 1 L1
Or E.iB = I L + (MA + 2MB) 6 I
1 1 1

 Similarly, in the span BC, taking C as the origin and x positive to the
3

left, we get;
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 a2 X 2 L2
E.i;B = I L + (MC + 2MB) 6 I ………………….………………..(iv)
2 2 2

Where:
a2 = Area of the u-diagram in the span BC.
x-2 = Distance of centre of gravity of u-diagram from C in the span BC
a’2 = Area of the u’-diagram in the span BC.
x-’2 = Distance of centre of gravity of u’-diagram from C in the span BC
i’B = Slope of the beam BC at B.

 Since iB is equal to –I’B, therefore E.iB is equal to –E. i’B.

a1 X 1 L1 a2 X 2 L2
Or I L + (MA + 2MB) 6 I =¿ I L + (MC + 2MB) 6 I
1 1 1 2 2 2

 Therefore,
L1 L2 a1 X 1 a2 X 2
(MA + 2MB) I + (MC + 2MB) I =-6 I L -6 I L
1 2 1 1 2 2

L1 L1 L2 L2 a1 X 1 a2 X 2
 MA I + 2MB I + MC I + 2MB I = - (6 I 1 L1
+ 6 I 2 L2
)
1 1 2 2

 Therefore,
L1 L1 L2 L2 a1 X 1 a2 X 2
MA( I ) + 2MB( I + I ) + MC( I ) = - (6 I L + 6 I L )
1 1 2 2 1 1 2 2

Required equation for three moment theorems

4

Note:
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 1) For the sake of Simplicity, we have considered a continuous beam with two
spans only. But this equation can be extended for any number of spans.
2) If the moment of inertia of the beam is constant, then
a1 X 1 a2 X 2
MA L1+ 2MB ( L1 + L2) + MC ( L2) = - (6 L + 6 L )
1 2

3) The shear force diagram for the beam may be drawn as usual.
4) The elastic curve of the beam may be drawn as usual as shown in figure c.
Application of clapeyron’s theorem of three moments to various types
of continuous beams
 We shall discuss clapeyron’s theorem of three moments and its application
to the following types of continuous beams:
i. Continuous beams with simply supported ends.
ii. Continuous beams with fixed end support
iii. Continuous beams with the end span overhanging
A. CONTINUOUS BEAMS WITH SIMPLY SUPPORTED ENDS.
 Sometimes abeam is simply supported on its one or both the end supports.
In such a case, the fixing moment on the simply supported end is zero.

Example 1
A continuous beam ABC 10m long rests on supports A,B and C at the same
level and is loaded as shown in figure below. Determine the moment over
the beam, and draw the bending moment diagram. Also calculate the
reactions at the supports and draw the shear force diagram.
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Solution
  Given:
Span BC =L2 = 4m
Span AB = L1 = 6m
Load in AB W = 3KN
Distance AD a= 2m
Distance DB b= 4m
Load in BC w = 1KN/m

(i). Moments over the beam

 Let MA = fixing moments at A.
MB = fixing moments at B.
MC = fixing moments at C
 First of all, let us consider the beam AB as a simply supported beam.
Therefore, the moment at D:
3x 2x 4
MD = Wab/L1 = 6
= 4KNm.
2 2
WL 1x 4
 Similarly bending moment at mid of span BC = = = 2KNm
8 8
Draw the u-diagram.
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Find the a1x-1 s

 4
a1x-1 = {(½ x 2 x 4 x 2 x ⅔) + (½ x 4 x 4) x (2 + 3 )} = 32
32
And a2x-2 = (⅔ x 2 x 4 x 2) = 3 = 10.67

 Now using three moment equations

a1 X 1 a2 X 2
MA L1+ 2MB( L1 + L2) + MC( L2) = - (6 L + 6 L )
1 2

32 10.67
0 + 2MB (6 + 4) + 0 = -(6 x 6 + 6 x 4
)
20MB = -(32 + 16) = -48
48
Or MB = - 20 = 2.4KNm.
 Now complete the bending moment diagram.
7

(ii). S.F. diagram

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 Let RA = reactions at A
 RB = reactions at B
RC = reactions at C
 Taking moments about B,
8

 Draw the B.M. and S.F. diagrams.

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 Example
A continuous bean ABCD, simply supported at A, B, C and D, is loaded as
shown in figure below. Find the moment over the beam and draw the
bending moment and shear force diagrams.
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Solution
 Given:
Span AB = L1 = 6m.
Span AB = L2 = 5m.
Span AB = L3 = 4m.
Load in AB =W1 = 9KN
Distance AE = a1 = 2m.
Distance AE = b1 = 4m.
Load in BC =W2 = 9KN
Distance BF = a2 = 2m.
Distance FC = b2 = 2m.
Load in AB =w = 3KN/m.
(i). moments over the beam
Let:
MA = fixing moment at A
MB= fixing moment at B.
MC = fixing moment at C, and
MD = fixing moment at D.
 First of all, let us consider the beam ABCD as a simply supported beam.
 Therefore, the moment at E:
w 1 a1 b1 9 x 2 x 4
ME = L1
= 6 = 12KNm.

 Similarly,
W 2 a2 b2 8 x 2 x 3
MF = L2
= 5
= 9.6KNm.

2 2
W L3 3X4
and bending moment at mid of the span CD = = = 6KNm
8 8
10

 Now draw the u-diagram with the help of above bending moments.
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  Calculate the a x-1 s for the respective spans

For the span AB and BC

[ 3
]
a1x-1 = [ ( ½ x 2 x 12 x 2 x ⅔)] + (½ x 4 x 12) x (2+ 3 ) = 96.0

a2x-2 = [ ( ½ x 3 x 9.6 x 2 x 3/3) ] + [ ( ½ x 2 x 9.6)(3 x ⅔) ]= 64.0

 Similarly, for the span BC and CD.

[ 3
]
a2x-2 = [ ( ½ x 2 x 9.6 x 2 x ⅔) ]+ (½ x 3 x 9.6) x (2+ 3 ) = 56.0

 And,

a3x-3 = (⅔x 6 x 4 x 2) = 32.0

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 Now using three moments equations for the spans BC and CD

 a1 X 1 a2 X 2
 MA L1+ 2MB ( L1 + L2) + MC ( L2) = - (6L1
+ 6 L2
)
6 x 96 6 x 64
0 + 2MB (6 + 5) + MC x 5 = - ( 6 + 5 )

22 M B + 5 M C = -172.8 ………………………………………………….(i)

 Again, using the three moment theorem equations for the spans BC and
CD.
a2 X 2 a3 X 3
MBL2 + 2MC (L2 + L3) + MD L3 = = - (6 L + 6 L )
2 3

56 32
MB x 5 + 2MC (5+4) + 0 =- (6 x 5 +6x 4 )
5MB + 18MC = 115.2 ………………………………………..(ii)

 Solving equations (i) and (ii).

5MC
From equation (i) MB =-172.8 –
22

Substituting this value of MB in equation (ii)

5(-7.855 – 0.227MC) + 18MC = -115.2

-39.275 – 1.135MC + 18MC = -115.2

+16.865MC = -115.2 + 39.275

75.925
MC = - 16.865 = 4.5KNm.

 Substitute for MB in equation (i)

22MB + 5(- 4.5) = -172.8

22MB – 22.5 = 172.8

(−172.8+22.5)
12

MB = = -6.83KNm.
22
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 Now complete the bending moment diagram.

 (ii). Reactions at the supports

 Let,

RA = reaction at A

RB = reaction at B

RC = reaction at C, and

RD = reaction at D
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Page14
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 Now draw the shear force and bending moment diagram
15
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 L1B: CONTINUOUS BEAMS WITH FIXED END SUPPORTS
 Sometimes a continuous beam is fixed at its one or both ends. If the beam
is fixed at the left end A, then an imaginary zero span is taken to the left of
A and the three-moment theorem is applied as usual.
 Similarly, if the beam is fixed at the right end, then an imaginary zero span
is taken to the right end support and the three-moment theorem is applied
as usual.
Note: The fixing moment at O i.e. at the imaginary support of the zero
span, is always equal to zero.

Example
A continuous beam ABC of uniform section with span AB 8m and BC as 6m
is fixed at A and simply supported at B and C. The beam is carrying a
uniformly distributed load of 1KN/M throughout its length. Find the
moments along the beam and the reactions at the supports. Also draw the
bending moment diagram.

Solution
Given:
Span AB L1 = 8m
Span BC L2 = 6m
Load ω = 1KN/M
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Moment along the beam

 Since the beam is fixed at A, therefore assume a zero span to the left of A.
Let: Mo = Fixing moment at the left-hand support of zero span.
MA = Fixing moment at A
MB = Fixing moment at B and,
MC = Fixing moment at C
First consider the beam AB as a simply supported beam.

2 2
ωL 1 1x 8
 B.M. at the mid of the span AB = 8
= 8
= 8KNM
2 2
ωL 2 1x 6
 Similarly, the B.M. at the mid of the span BC= 8
= 8
= 4.5KNM
 Now draw the u-diagram with the help of the above B.M.

 Calculate aẋ’s for the span OA and AB

a0 ẋ0 =0
2 512
a1 ẋ1 = 3x8x8x4= 3 = 170.67
 Similarly, for the span AB and BC
17

2 512
a1 ẋ1 = 3x8x8x4= = 170.67
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 2
¿ a1 ẋ1 = 3 x 4.5 x 6 x 3 = 54
 Now using the three-moment equation for the spans OA and AB.
a0 ẋ 0 a1 ẋ 1
M 0 L 0 + 2 M A ¿ + L1) + M B L1 = -6( + L ¿
L0 1

170.67
0 + 2 M A ¿ + 8 ¿ + M B x 8 = -6(0 + ¿
8
16 M A+ 8 M B = -128 ………………………………………………………….(i)

 Again, using the three-moment equation for the spans AB and BC

a1 ẋ 1 a2 ẋ2
M A L1 + 2 M B ¿ + L2) + M C L2 = -6( + L ¿
L1 2

170.67 54
M A X 8 + 2 M B ¿ + 6 ) + 0 = -6( + 6¿
8
8 M A + 28 M B = -182 ……………………………………………………………..(ii)

 Solving the equations (i) and (ii)

16 M A+ 8 M B = -128 ……………………………………(i)
8 M A + 28 M B = -182 ………………………………………(ii)
−128−16 MA
 From equation (i) MB = 8
= -16 – 2MA
Substituting in equation (ii)
8MA +28(-16 – 2MA) = -182
8MA – 448 – 56MA = -182
−182+ 448
MA = 48
= - 5.54KNM
 In equation (i)
16(-5.54) + 8MA = -128
-88.64 +8MB = -128
−128+88.64
MB = 8
= - 4.92KNM
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 Now complete the B.M. diagram.
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  Ii. Reactions at supports

 In span AB
Taking moments about B
RA x 8 – 5.54 – 8 x 1 x 4 +4.92 = 0
8RA = 37.54 –4.92 =32.62
32.62
RA = 8
= 4.0775 = 4.08 KN
RA + RB1 = 8 X 1 = 8
RB1 = 8 – 4.08 =3.92 KN
 In span BC
Taking moments about C
RB2 x 6 – 4.92 – 6 x 1 x 3 +0 = 0
6RB2 = 22.92
22.92
RB2 = 6
= 3.82KN
RB2 + RC = 6 X 1 = 6
RC = 6 – 3.82 = 2.18KN
20
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Now draw the shear force diagram.

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EXAMPLE 2
 Use three moment theorems to analyze the beam shown below hence
draw the bending moment and shear force diagram and indicate the values
at all the critical points (points of loading).

SOLUTION
1. Assume the spans to be simply supported and calculate the free bending
moments (B.M).

Wab 60 x 3 x 4
Span AB B.M = L = 7
= 102.86KNM
2 2
WL 20 x 5
Span BC B.M =
8
= 8
= 62.5KNM
Wab 40 x 1.5 x 2.5
Span CD B.M = L = 4 = 37.5KNM
Span DE B.M = -WL = - 10 x 1.5 = - 15KNM
 Also, bending moment at D = 15KNM.
Also introduce a zero span at the fixed end at A.
22

2. Draw the FBM diagram.

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 Calculate aẋ’s for the respective span i.e. span A’A – AB, AB – BC, BC - CD
Span A”A – AB
a0 ẋ0 = 0

a1 ẋ1 =
[ 1
2
2
3 ][1
2
1
x 120.86 x 4 x ( x 4) + x 102.86 x 3 x (4 + x 3)
3 ]
= 1320.04

 Span AB - BC
a1 ẋ1 =
[ 1
2
2
3 ][1
2
1
x 120.86 x 3 x ( x 3) + x 102.86 x 4 x (3+ x 4)
3 ]
= 1200.03
2
a2 ẋ2 = x 5 x 62.5 x 2.5 = 520.83
3
 Span BC - CD
2
a2 ẋ2 = x 5 x 62.5 x 2.5 = 520.83
3
1
[ 2
3
1
2 ][ 1
a 3 ẋ 3 = x 37.5 x 2.5 x ( x 2.5) + x 37.5 x 1.5 x (2.5+ x 1.5)
2 3 ]
= 162.5
 Apply the three-moment theorem for respective spans.
 Span A’A –AB
L1 L1 a0 ẋ 0 a1 ẋ 1
M 0 L0 + 2M ¿ + ) +M = -6( L + ¿
23

A B
I1 I1 0 Io L1 Io
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7 7 1320.04
Page

0 + 2 MA¿ + ¿ + M B ( ) = - 6(0 + ¿
3I 3I 7 x3 I
 MA MB 377.15
4.67
I
+ 2.33 I
= - I
4.67 M A + 2.33 M B = -377.15 ………………………………………………………….(i)

 NB: The purpose of division is to make I constant throughout the beam.

 Span AB -BC
L1 L L2 a1 ẋ 1 a 2 ẋ 2
MA
I1
+ 2 MB¿ + 2 ) + MC
I2
= - 6( +
L1 I 1 L 2 I 2
¿
I2
7 5 5 1200.3 520.83
M A ( ) + 2 M B ¿+ ) + M C = - 6( + 2I x5 ¿
3I 2I 2I 3I x7
MA MB 2.5 655.36
2.33
I
+ 9.67 I
+ I
M C= -
I
2.33 M A+ 9.67 M B + 2.5 M C= -655 , 36 ………………………………………….(ii)

Span BC - CD
L2 L3 L3 a2 ẋ 2 a3 ẋ 3
MB
I2 + 2M ¿ +
C
I3
) +M D
I3 = - 6( L2 I 2 + L3 I 3
¿

5
M B(
2I
) + 2 M ¿+ 4I ) + M 4I = - 6( 520.83
C D
2I x5
+ 162.5
I x4
¿

MB
2.5
I
+ 13 MC
I
- 15( 4
I
¿= -
556.25
I
2.5 M B + 13 M C – 60 = -556.25
2.5 M B + 13 M C – 60 = -496.25 …………….…………………………………….(Iii)
 Solve the three simultaneous equations.
4.67 M A + 2.33 M B = -377.15 …………………………………………………….(i)
2.33 M A+ 9.67 M B + 2.5 M C= -655.36 …………………………………….(ii)
2.5 M B + 13 M C – 60 = -496.25 …………….…………………………………….(Iii)
 From equation (i) 4.67MA = - 377.15 – 2.33MB
−377.15 – 2.33 MB
MA = 4.67
MA = - 80.82 – 0.4996MB
Substitute MA in equation (ii)
2.33(-80.86 – 0.4996MA) + 9.67MB + 2.5MC = - 655.36
-188.31 – 1.16MB + 9.67MB + 2.5MC = - 655.36
24

8.51MB + 2.5MC = - 467.05 ……………………………………………………….(iv)

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 Solve equations (iii) and (iv)

 [ 8.51 MB+2.5 MC=−467.05 ] x 5.2
[ 2.5 M B +13 M C – 60=−496.25 ] x 1
↓

44.252MB +13MC = - 2428.66

2.5MB +13MC = -496.25
↓

41.752MB = - 1932.41
−1932.41
MB = 41.752 = - 46.28
Therefore MB = -46.28KNM

 MA = -80.82 – 0.4996 x (-46.28) = -57.70KNM

From equation (iii)

13MC = -496.25 – 2.5MB
−496.25 – 2.5(−46.28)
MC = = - 29.27KNM
13

Now draw the bending moment diagram

25
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 Calculate the reactions and draw the shear force diagram.
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Span AB
 Σ RB1 = 0
7RA – 60 x 4 -57.70 + 46.28 = 0
7RA = 251.42
251.42
RA = 7
= 35.92KN
ΣF ↑ = 0
RA - 60 + RB1=¿0
35.92 – 60 + RB1 = 0
Therefore RB1 = - 24.08KN
 Span BC
Σ RC 1 = 0
2
20 x 5
5 RB2−¿ – - 46.28 + 29.27 = 0
2
5 RB2 = 267.01
267.01
RB2 = = 53.40KN
5
ΣF ↑ = 0
RB2 - (20 x 5) + RC 1=¿0
RC 1 = 53.40 – 100 = - 46.60KN
Therefore RC 1 = - 46.60KN
 Span CD
Σ RD 1 = 0
4 RC 2−¿ 29.27– 40 x 2.5 + 15 = 0
4 RC 2 = 129.27 – 15 = 114.27
114.27
RC 2 = = 28.57KN
4
ΣF ↑ = 0
RC 2 + RD 1=4 0
RD 1 = 40 – 28.57 = 11.43KN
Therefore RD 1 = 11.43KN

 Span DE
27

Σ ME = 0
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1.5 RD 2−15= 0
 1.5 RD 2 = 15
15
RD 2 = = 10KN
1.5
 Now draw the shear force diagram indicating the critical or salient values.
28
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 Example
Using three moment theorems analyze the beam shown below and hence
plot the shear force and bending moment diagrams.

Solution
Introduce zero span at both ends A and C.
Assume the spans to be simply supported and calculate their free bending
moments.

Span A’A = 0KNM

2 2
WL 2x 6
Span AB =
8
= 8
= 9KNM
Wab
Span BC = L = 12 x63 x 3 = 18KNM
29

Span CC’ = 0KNM

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ii. Draw the free bending moment diagram (FBM).

 iii. Calculate the respective aẋ’s for the respective spans.
 Span A’A – AB
a0 ẋ0 = 0
2
a1 ẋ1 =
3 x9x6x3=
108

 Span AB -BC
2
a1 ẋ1 =
3 x9x6x3=
108

[ 1 2
3 ][ 1
2
1
]
a 2 ẋ 2 = x 18 x 3 x ( x 3) + x 18 x 3 x (3+ x 3) = 162
2 3
 Span BC – CC’

[
a2 ẋ2 =
1
2
2
3 ][ 1
2
1
x 18 x 3 x ( x 3) + x 18 x 3 x (3+ x 3)
3 ]= 162
a0 ẋ0 = 0

iv. Apply the three-moment equation for the respective spans.

 Span A’A -AB
a0 ẋ 0 a1 ẋ 1
M 0 L 0 + 2 M A ¿ + L1) + M B L1 = -6( + L ¿
L0 1

108
0 + 2 M A ¿ + 6 ¿ + M B x 6 = -6(0 + ¿
6
12 M A + 6 M B = -108
2 M A+ M B = -18 ………………………………………………………….(i)
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  Span AB –BC
a1 ẋ 1 a2 ẋ2
M A L1 + 2 M B ¿ + L2) + M C L2 = -6( + L ¿
L1 2

108 162
6 M A + 2 M B ¿ + 6 ) + M C (6) = -6( + 6 ¿
6
6 M A + 24 M B + 6 M C = -270
M A + 4 M B + M C = - 45 ……………………………………………………………. (ii)

 Span BC – CC’
a2 ẋ2 a0 ẋ 0
M B L2 + 2 M C ¿ + L0) + M O L0 = -6( + L ¿
L2 0

162
6 M B + 2 M C ¿ + 0 ) + 0 = -6( + 0¿
6
6 M B + 12 M C = -162
M B + 2 M C = -27 ……………………………………………………………………. (iii)

 Solve the equations (i), (ii) and (iii).

2 M A+ M B = -18 ………………………………………………………….(i)
M A + 4 M B + M C = - 45 ……………………………………..…………..(ii)
M B + 2 M C = -27 …………………………………………………………….(iii)

−18 – MB
 From equation (i) MA = 2
= -9 – 0.5 MB
Substitute MA in equation (ii)
-9 – 0.5 MB + 4MB + MC = - 45
3.5MB + MC = - 36 ……………………………………………………….(iv)
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  Solve equations (iii) and (iv)
[ M B +2 M C=−27 ] x 1
[ 3.5 MB+ MC=−36 ] x 2
↓

MB +2MC = - 27
7MB +2MC = -72
↓

-6MB = 45
45
MB = −6 = - 7.5KNM
Therefore MB = -7.5KNM
 MA = -9 – 0.5MB
MA = -9 – 0.5 x (-7.5) = -5.25KNM
MA From equation (iii)
−27 – MB
MC = 2
−27 – (−7.5)
MC = = −9.75 KNM
2
Now draw the bending moment diagram
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  Calculate the reactions and draw the shear force diagram.

Span AB
Σ MRB1 = 0
6RA – 5.25 -2 x 6 x 3 + 7.5 = 0
6RA = 33.75
33.75
RA = 6
= 5.625KN
ΣF ↑ = 0
RA – 2 x 6 + RB1=¿0
RB1 =- 5.625 + 12 = +6.375
Therefore RB1 = +6.375KN
 Span BC
Σ MRC = 0
6 RB2−¿ 7.5– 12 x 3 + 9.75 = 0
6 RB2 = 33.75
33.75
RB2 = = 5.625KN
6
ΣF ↑ = 0
RB2 - 12 + RC =¿0
RC = - (R B2 – 12)
¿−5,625+12 = +6.375KN
Therefore RC 1 = +6.375KN
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 Now draw the shear force diagram
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 L2C: CONTINUOUS BEAMS WITH END SPAN OVERHANGING
 Sometimes a beam is overhanging on its one or both ends. in such a case,
the overhanging part of the beam behaves as a cantilever.
 The fixing moment on the end support may be found out by the cantilever
action of the overhanging part of the beam.

Example
A beam ABCD 9M long is simply supported at A, B and C, such that the span
AB is 3M, span BC is 4.5M and the overhanging CD is 1.5M. It carries a
uniformly distributed load of 1.5KN/M in span AB and a point load of 1KN
at the free end D. The moment of inertia of the beam in span AB is I and
that in span BC is 2I. Draw the shear force and bending moment diagram
for the beam.

Solution
 Given:
Span AB L1 = 4M
Span BC L2 = 4.5M
Span CD L3 = 1.5M
M.O.I. of span AB = I
M.O.I. of span BC =2II
M.O.I. of span CD = I
Load in AB ω = 1.5KN/M
Load at D = 1KN
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 (i) Bending moment diagram
Let MA = Fixing moment at A
MB = Fixing moment at B
MC = Fixing moment at C
First of all, consider the beam as simply supported beam.

2 2
ω L1 1.5 x 3
Therefore B.M. at the mid span of AB =
8
= 8
= 1.69KNM
And the fixing moment at C, MC = - WL = - 1 x 1.5 = - 1.5KNM
Now draw the u-diagram with the help of above bending moments.

Calculate aẋ’s for the span AB and BC

2
a1 ẋ1 = 3 x 1.69 x 3 x 1.5 = 5.07
Now using three moment equations for the spans AB and BC.
L1 L L a ẋ a ẋ
MA + 2 M B ¿ + 2 ) + M C 2 = -6( 1 1 + 0 0 ¿
36

I1 I2 I2 I 1 L1 I 0 L0
Page36

4.5 4.5 5.07

0 + 2 MB¿ +
Page

¿ – 1.5 x = - 6( ¿
2I 2I Ix3
 10.5 M B 6.75 10.14
I
– 2I =- I

Or 10.5MB – 3.375 = - 10.14

−10.14+3.375 6.765
Therefore MB = 10.5 =- 10.5 = - 0.65KNM

Now complete the bending moment diagram.

ii. Calculate the reactions and draw the shear force diagram.

Let RA = Reaction at A
RB = Reaction at B, and
RC = Reaction at C
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  Span AB
Σ RB1 = 0
RA x 3 – 1.5 x 3 x 1.5 – 0 + 0.65 = 0
3RA = 6.75 – 0.65
6.1
RA = 3 = 2.03KN
ΣF ↑ = 0
RA + RB1=¿1.5 x 3 = 4.5
RB1 = 4.5 – 2.03 = 2.47
Therefore RB1 = - 2.47KN

 Span BC
Σ RC 1 = 0
4.5 RB2−¿ –0.65 + 1.5 = 0
4.5 RB2 = - 0.85
−0.85
RB2 = = - 0.1889 = - 0.19KN
4.5
ΣF ↑ = 0
RB2 + RC 1=¿0
RC 1 = 0 – 0.19 = - 0.19
Therefore RC 1 = - 0.19KNM

 Span CD
Σ RD 1 = 0
1.5 RC 2−¿ 1.5−1.5 x 0= 0
1.5 RC 2 = 1.5
1.5
RC 2 = = 1KN
1.5
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Now complete the shear force diagram.

Page39
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Example
 A continuous beam ABCD is pinned at A and simply supported at B and C,
these points being at the same level, CD is an overhang. AB = 3M, BC =
3.6M and CD = 1.8M. it carries a point load of 10 KN at the midpoint of BC
and uniformly distributed load of 1.6KN/M run from A to D as shown in the
figure below.

Solution
 Given:
Span AB L1 = 3M
Span BC L2 = 3.6M
Span CD L3 = 1.8M
Load in AD ω = 1.6KN/M
Load at E = 10KN

 Bending moment diagram

Let MA = Fixing moment at A
MB = Fixing moment at B and
MC = Fixing moment at C
 Since the beam is simply supported at A, therefore the fixing moment MA
will be zero.
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i. First of all, consider the beam as simply supported beam.

Page
 2 2
ω L1 1.6 x 3
 Therefore B.M. at the mid span of AB =
8
= 8
= 1.8KNM
 Similarly, the B.M. at the mid of span BC due to point load:
WL 10 x 3.6
M1 = = = 9.0KNM
4 4
And B.M. due to the uniformly distributed load
2 2
M 2 = WL = 1.6 x 3.6
= 2.6KNM
8 8
Therefore total B.M. at the mid of span BC = 9.0 + 2.6 = 11.6KNM

Fixing moment at C
2 2
W L3 1.6 x 1.8
MC =
2
= 2
= 2.6KNM
Now draw the u-diagram with the help of the above bending moments.

ii. Calculate aẋ’s for the respective span i.e. span AB – BC.
Span AB – BC

2
a1 ẋ1 = x 3 x 1.8 x 1.5 = 5.4
3

a2 ẋ2 =
[ 1
2
2
][ ]
x 9 x 3.6 x 1.8 + x 3.6 x 2.6 x 1.8 = 40.39
3
41

iii. Now using three moment equations for the spans AB and BC.
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 a1 ẋ 1 a2 ẋ2
M A L1 + 2 M B ¿ + L2) + M C L2 = - 6( + L ¿
L1 2

5.4 40.39
0 + 2 M B ¿+ 3.6 ¿ + ( 2.6 x 3.6 ¿= -6( ¿
3 + 3.6
13.2MB + 9.36 = - (10.8 + 67.32)
13.2MB = - 78.12
78.12
MB = - 13.2 = - 5.92KNM
iv. Now complete the B.M. diagram.

v. Calculate the reactions and draw the shear force diagram.

Let RA = Reaction at A
RB = Reaction at B, and
RC = Reaction at C

Span AB
Σ M RB1 = 0
RA x 3 – 1.6 x 3 x 1.5 – 0 + 5.92 = 0
3RA = 7.2 – 5.92 = 1.28
1.28
RA = 3 = 0.43KN
ΣF ↑ = 0
RA + RB1=¿1.6 x 3 = 4.8
RB1 = 4.8 – 0.43 = 4.37
Therefore RB1 = - 4.37KN

 Span BC
Σ MRC 1 = 0
3.6 RB2−¿ 5.92−(10 X 1.8)−(1.6 X 3.6 X 1.8)+ 2.6 = 0
3.6 RB2 = 34.288 – 2.6 = 31.688
31.688
RB2 = = 8.802 KN
3.6
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 ΣF ↑ = 0
RB2 + RC 1=¿10 + (1.6 x 3.6) = 15.76
RC 1 = 15.76 – 8.802 = 6.958 KN
Therefore RC 1 = 6.958 KN

 Span CD
Σ MRD1 = 0
1.8 RC 2−¿ 2.6= 0
1.8 RC 2 = 2.6
2.6
RC 2 = = 1.444 KN
1.8
Now complete the shear force diagram.
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 Example
Abeam ABCDE has a built-in support at A and roller supports at B, C and D,
DE being an overhung. AB = 7m, BC = 5m, CD = 4m and DE = 1.5m. The
values of moment of inertia of the section over each of these lengths are 3I,
2I, I and I respectively. The beam carries a point load of 10KN at a point 3m
from A, a uniformly distributed load of 4.5KN/m over whole of BC and
concentrated load of 9KN in CD 1.5m from C and another point load of 3KN
at E, the top of overhung as shown in figure below

Solution
 Given:

Span AB = L1 = 7m and M.I. of span AB =3I

Span BC =L2 = 5m and M.I. of span BC = 2I

Span CD = L3 = 4m and M.I. of span CD = I

Span DE = L4 = 1.5m and M.I. of span DE = I

Load in AB W1 = 10KN

Load in BC w = 4.5KN/m

Load in CD W2= 9KN

Load in DE W3= 9KN

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  Bending moment diagram

Let:

MA = fixing moment at A

MB = fixing moment at B, and

MC= fixing moment at C

MD= fixing moment at D

 Since the beam is fixed at A, therefore assume a zero span to the left of A.

 Therefore B.M. under 10KN load in span AB = W1ab/L1 = (10 x 3 x 4)/7

= 120/7 = 17.14KNm

 Similarly, bending moment at the mid of span BC:

M1= -wL22/8 = -4.5 x 52/8 =112.5/8 = 14.06KNm

 And B.M. under the 9KN load in span CD

= W2ab/L3 = (9 x 1.5 x 2.5)/4 = 33.75/4 = 8.44KNm

 Similarly, bending moment at D:

MD= -WL4 = -3 x 1.5 = -4.5KNm
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 NB: Now draw the u-diagram with the help of above bending moments.
  Calculate a x-1s

 Find a x-1s for the spans 0A and AB.

a0x-0 = 0

And a1x-1 = {(1/2 x 3 x 17.14 x 2 x 4/3) + (1/2 x 3 x 17.14) (4 + 3/3)} = 220

 Similarly, for the spans AB and BC

a1x-1 = {(1/2 x 3 x 17.14 x 3 x 2/3) + (1/2 x 4 x 17.14) (3 + 4/3)} = 200

and a2x-2 = {(2/3 x 5 x 14.06 x 2.5)} = 117.2

 Similarly, for the spans BC and CD

a2x-2 = {(2/3 x 5 x 14.06 x 2.5)} = 117.2

 and a3x-3 = {(1/2 x 2.5 x 8.44 x 2 x 2.5/3) + (1/2 x 1.5 x 8.44) (2.5 x 1.5/3)}

= 36.9

 Now using three moments’ equations for the spans 0A and AB i.e.

M0 (L0/I0) + 2MA (L0/I0 + L1/I1) + MB(L1/I1) = -(6 a0x-0/ I0L0 + 6 a1x-1/I1L1)

0 + 2MA(7/3I) + MB (7/3I) = -{(0 + (6 x 220)/3I x 7}

2MA + MB = - -26.96 ……………………………………………………(i)

 Again, using three moments’ equations for the spans AB and BC i.e.

 MA (L1/I1) + 2MB (L1/I1 + L2/I2) + MC(L2/I2) = -(6 a1x-1/ I1L1 + 6 a2x-2/I2L2)

 MA(7/3I) +2 MB (7/3I + 5/2I) + MC(5/2I) = -{(6 x 200)/3I x 7 + (6 x 117.2)/2I x
5}

 7MA/3I + 29MB/3I + 5MC/2I = -(171.4/3I + 140.6/2I)

46

14MA + 58MB + 15MC = – 764.5 …………………………………………(ii)

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  Again, using three moments’ equations for the spans BC and CD i.e.

MB (L2/I2) + 2MC (L2/I2 + L3/I3) + MD(L3/I3) = -(6 a2x-2/ I2L2 + 6 a3x-3/I3L3)

MB(5/2I) +2 MC (5/2I + 4/I) – 4.5 x 4/I) = -{(6 x 117.2)/2I x 5 + (6 x 36.6)/ I x 4}

5MB/2I + 26MC/2I – 18/I = -(140.6/I + 54.9/I)

5MB + 26MC = -214.4 …………………………………………(iii)

 Now solving equations i, ii, and iii, we get;

2MA + MB = - -26.96 ……………………………………………………(i)

14MA + 58MB + 15MC = – 764.5 ………………………………(ii)

5MB + 26MC= -214.4 ………………………………………………(iii)

−26.96 – MB
 From equation (i) MA = 2
MA = - 13.48 – 0.5MB
Substitute MA in equation (ii)
14(-13.48 – 0.5MA) + 58MB + 15MC = - 764.5
-188.72 – 7MB + 58MB + 15MC = - 764.5
51MB + 15MC = - 575.78 ……………………………………………………….(iv)

 Solve equations (iii) and (iv)

[ 5 MB+26 MC=−214.4 ] x 10.2
47

[ 51 M B +15 M C=−575.78 ] x 1
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↓
Page
 51 M B +265.2 M C =¿ = - 2186.88
51 M B +15 M C =¿ = - 575.78
↓

250.2 MB = - 1611.1
−1611.1
MC = 250.2 = - 6.439 KNM
Therefore MC = - 6.439 KNM

From equation (iii)

5MB + 26MC= -214.4
5MB + 26(-6.439) = -214.4
−214.4 – 26 (−6.439)
MB = = - 9.397 KNM
5
Therefore MB = - 9.397 KNM

From equation (i)

2MA + MB= -26.94
2MA = -26.94 + 9.397 = -17.543
−17.543
MB = 2
= - 8.772 KNM
Therefore MA = - 8.772 KNM

Draw the B.M. diagram

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