Calculate support reactions, total load, maximum shear, maximum bending moment, estimated deflection, and span ratio for a simply supported beam. Use this calculator for uniform loads, off-center point loads, center point loads, and combined beam loading.
Uniform load:
The calculator estimates total load, equal support reactions, maximum shear, maximum bending moment, and midspan deflection.
Point load:
The calculator estimates left and right reactions based on where the point load is placed on the span.
Combined load:
The calculator combines the uniform load and point load reactions, then estimates total shear, bending moment, and deflection.
Deflection check:
The calculator compares estimated deflection to the selected limit, such as L/360 or L/480.
A simply supported beam calculator helps estimate basic beam behavior before choosing a beam size, comparing loads, or reviewing a framing layout.
It can help compare reactions, shear, bending moment, total load, point load position, deflection, span ratio, and basic load path assumptions.
Your result shows estimated left reaction, right reaction, total load, maximum shear, maximum bending moment, maximum deflection, allowable deflection, and span ratio. These values are simplified estimates and do not replace structural design.
A simply supported beam is supported at both ends and is free to bend between those supports. Common examples include basic floor beams, deck beams, joists, rafters, and headers.
Support reactions are calculated by balancing vertical forces and moments. For a centered uniform load, each support carries half the total load.
For a full uniform load, maximum moment occurs near midspan. For a single point load, maximum moment occurs under the point load.
No. This calculator estimates basic beam forces and deflection. Final beam sizing depends on material, grade, section properties, shear, bending, bearing, deflection, connections, code requirements, and professional review.