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Support Force Calculator

Easily calculate support force with our free Support Force Calculator. Learn the formula, steps, and examples for beams, levers, and structures in simple words.

Formula
SF = (M₁ + M₂) × g
SF
Support Force (N)
M₁, M₂
Object Masses (kg)
g
Gravity (m/s²)
Standard Earth gravity: 9.81 m/s² or 32.17 ft/s²

When a beam or lever holds weight, it needs support. The push or pull that keeps it in balance is called the support force. Our Support Force Calculator helps you find this value in seconds. You don’t need to be an engineer to use it. Just enter the masses and gravity, and you’ll get the result.

This tool works for beams, steel supports, and even simple classroom examples. It’s quick, simple, and accurate.

What is a Support Force?

A support force is the total upward push at a point that holds a beam or lever in balance. Think of a seesaw in a park. When two kids sit on it, the ground under the pivot provides the support force.

Mathematically, the support force is:

SF = (M1 + M2) × g

Where:

  • M1 = mass of object 1 (kg)
  • M2 = mass of object 2 (kg)
  • g = gravity (9.81 m/s² on Earth)
  • SF = support force (N)

How to Use the Support Force Calculator

  1. Enter the mass of object 1 and select its unit.
  2. Enter the mass of object 2 and select its unit.
  3. Enter the gravity value or keep the default 9.81 m/s².
  4. Click calculate.
  5. Get your support force in Newtons, kilonewtons, or meganewtons.

Example Problem

Let’s say object 1 is 30 kg and object 2 is 10 kg. Gravity is 9.81 m/s².

SF = (M1 + M2) × g

SF = (30 + 10) × 9.81

SF = 40 × 9.81

SF = 392.4 N

The support force is 392.4 Newtons.

Why Does Support Force Matter?

Support force shows if a beam or structure can stay balanced. In construction, engineers use it to design safe bridges and steel beams. In classrooms, students use it to learn physics. Even in daily life, like when you lean on a table, the support force keeps it steady.

Support Force and Beam Calculations

The calculator works best when the beam is in equilibrium. For more complex problems, you may also need to check bending moment and shear force. That’s where tools like a bending moment diagram calculator or a shear and moment diagram calculator come in. But for basic support reaction, this calculator is enough.

Final Verdict

The Support Force Calculator makes physics simple. You’ll save time, avoid errors, and understand real-world balance better. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or engineer, this tool helps you work out support forces with ease.

FAQs

How to work out support force?

Add the masses on the beam and multiply by gravity.

Can I calculate support force for steel beams?

Yes, you can. The formula is the same.

Is there a free online beam calculator?

Yes, our tool is free and works instantly.

How to calculate SF and BM?

SF is support force. BM is bending moment. You calculate SF with the formula above. BM needs distances and torque values.

What’s an example of support force?

A chair pushing upward on you while you sit is a clear example.