Beam Load Calculator
Max bending moment & shear for a simple beam.
Amortization schedule
| # | Payment | Principal | Interest | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Showing first 12 of months.
Growth over time
| Year | Invested | Value |
|---|---|---|
Introduction
Beam Load Calculator — Max bending moment & shear for a simple beam. Enter Load (kN/m), Span (m) to get an instant, accurate result.
Formula
For a simply-supported beam under uniform load: maximum bending moment M = w × L² ÷ 8, and maximum shear = w × L ÷ 2, where w is load per meter and L is span length.
Step-by-step
- Enter the Load (kN/m).
- Enter the Span (m).
- Click Calculate to see your result instantly.
Real-world example
Example: With Load (kN/m) = 5, Span (m) = 4, the Beam Load Calculator gives Max Moment Knm: 10, Max Shear Kn: 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to any beam support condition?
No, this formula assumes a simply-supported beam with a uniformly distributed load — different support and load conditions (cantilever, fixed-end, point loads) require different equations.
Can I use this result to select a beam size?
This is a simplified structural approximation for estimating purposes only — final beam sizing and load-bearing calculations should always be verified and stamped by a licensed structural engineer.
What inputs does the Beam Load Calculator need?
You'll need to provide: Load (kN/m), Span (m). All fields use sensible defaults, so you can see a working example immediately and then adjust the values to match your own numbers.
How accurate is the Beam Load Calculator?
The Beam Load Calculator applies the formula exactly as calculated — For a simply-supported beam under uniform load: maximum bending moment M = w × L² ÷ 8, and maximum shear = w × L ÷ 2, where w is load per meter and L is span length. — so results are precise for the inputs you provide. Accuracy depends on entering correct, realistic input values.
Is the Beam Load Calculator free to use?
Yes, the Beam Load Calculator is completely free, requires no signup, and runs instantly in your browser.
About the Beam Load Calculator
The Beam Load Calculator uses a real, verifiable formula — For a simply-supported beam under uniform load: maximum bending moment M = w × L² ÷ 8, and maximum shear = w × L ÷ 2, where w is load per meter and L is span length. — so results are accurate every time, not an approximation.