Beam Deflection Calculator

Beams bend under load. This bending is called deflection. Too much deflection can weaken a structure. To keep buildings, bridges, and machines safe, engineers need fast and accurate tools. That’s why we built our Beam Deflection Calculator.

This calculator helps you find beam deflection in seconds. It works for cantilever beams and simply supported beams. It uses standard beam deflection formulas so you can trust the results. Whether you’re a student, engineer, or builder, you’ll find it easy to use.

What Is Beam Deflection?

Beam deflection is the amount a beam bends when you apply a load. Imagine a steel ruler held on a table edge. Press down on the free end. You’ll see it bend. That bend is deflection.

The size of deflection depends on:

• Beam length
• Load applied
• Young’s modulus (E)
• Moment of inertia (I)

Beam Deflection Formulas

Here are the common formulas used in beam deflection.

For a cantilever beam with point load at free end:

δ = PL³ / (3EI)

For a cantilever beam with uniform load:

δ = wL⁴ / (8EI)

For a simply supported beam with point load at midspan:

δ = PL³ / (48EI)

For a simply supported beam with uniform load:

δ = 5wL⁴ / (384EI)

Where:

• δ = deflection
• P = point load
• w = uniform load
• L = span length
• E = Young’s modulus
• I = moment of inertia

How to Use the Beam Deflection Calculator

1. Choose beam type (cantilever or simply supported).
2. Pick load type (point or uniform).
3. Enter beam length.
4. Add load value.
5. Enter Young’s modulus and moment of inertia.
6. Hit calculate and see instant results.

The calculator shows the formula used, the steps, and the exact deflection. You’ll also see where the maximum deflection happens, like at midspan or at the free end.

Why Use Our Beam Calculator?

Our tool makes tough math simple. You don’t need to open Excel or hunt for tables. The calculator is ready to use online anytime. It’s a free beam calculator that saves time for engineers, students, and DIY builders.

Think of it as your digital ruler. Just enter values, and you’ll see how much the beam bends.

Final Verdict

Beam deflection is key in safe design. With our Beam Deflection Calculator, you’ll never struggle with long formulas again. It’s fast, accurate, and simple. From steel beams to small DIY projects, this tool gives you the numbers you need.

FAQs

What is a Beam Deflection Calculator?

It’s a tool that finds how much a beam bends under load.

Can it work for steel beams?

Yes, just enter the right values for E (Young’s modulus) and I.

Do I need engineering software?

No. This free calculator gives you quick results online.

Can I use it like Excel?

Yes, but faster. Instead of making formulas in Excel, you can calculate beam deflection here in one step.