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Beam Complete

A beam is a horizontal structural element that carries loads perpendicular to its axis, essential in construction and mechanical systems. It transfers loads to vertical elements, with various types classified by support conditions, and experiences internal forces like shear and bending moments. Beams can be made from materials such as steel, concrete, and wood, with different cross-sectional shapes affecting their performance.

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5 views5 pages

Beam Complete

A beam is a horizontal structural element that carries loads perpendicular to its axis, essential in construction and mechanical systems. It transfers loads to vertical elements, with various types classified by support conditions, and experiences internal forces like shear and bending moments. Beams can be made from materials such as steel, concrete, and wood, with different cross-sectional shapes affecting their performance.

Uploaded by

leadervenus12
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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1. What Is a Beam?

A beam is a horizontal structural element designed to carry loads that act perpendicular to its

longitudinal axis. These loads cause the beam to bend, and as a result, internal stresses such as

bending moments and shear forces develop within it. Beams are essential components in

construction and mechanical systems, used in everything from bridges and buildings to machines

and vehicles.
2. Structural Purpose of a Beam
The main purpose of a beam is to transfer loads from slabs, roofs, or other structural components to

vertical elements such as columns or walls. Beams help distribute weight evenly and reduce stress

concentrations. When a load is applied, the top of the beam is typically in compression and the

bottom in tension, due to the bending action. This dual-stress nature makes beam design critical in

structural integrity.
3. Types of Beams by Support Conditions
Beams are classified based on how they are supported:

- Simply Supported Beam: Resting freely on two supports at each end.

- Cantilever Beam: Fixed at one end and free at the other.

- Fixed Beam: Both ends are fixed; resists rotation and provides greater stability.

- Overhanging Beam: Extends beyond one or both supports.

- Continuous Beam: Spans across more than two supports.

Each type behaves differently under load, and engineers choose the type based on structural needs

and constraints.
4. Internal Forces in Beams
When a beam carries a load, it experiences internal forces:

- Shear Force (V): A force that acts perpendicular to the beam axis, trying to slide one part of the

beam over the other.

- Bending Moment (M): A measure of the bending effect due to external forces.

- Deflection: The vertical displacement of the beam under load, which must be within safe limits.

Engineers calculate these internal forces to ensure the beam can withstand applied loads without

failing.
5. Materials and Cross-Section Shapes
Beams can be made from various materials including:

- Steel: Strong and widely used in construction.

- Concrete: Often reinforced with steel bars.

- Wood: Common in residential structures.

- Composite: Combines materials like concrete and steel.

The cross-sectional shape of a beam affects its performance:

- I-beams: High strength with minimal material.

- Rectangular beams: Simple and functional.

- Box beams and circular beams: For specific design needs.

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