Moment and Shear Calculator for Structural Beams
Shear force and bending moment are two of the most fundamental concepts in beam design. Whether you are designing beams for floors, roofs, decks, or lintels, accurate analysis of internal forces is essential to ensure structural integrity and code compliance. StruCalc’s moment and shear calculator helps engineers, architects, and builders analyze internal loads quickly, using real-world loading conditions and support configurations.
The Importance of Accurate Calculations
Inaccurate shear and moment calculations can lead to dangerous structural failures or overbuilt, expensive systems. By correctly evaluating internal forces, you ensure your beam selections meet the required strength and stiffness standards. StruCalc automates the calculation of internal shear and bending moment diagrams, helping you design safe, cost-effective structural elements that meet IBC and material-specific codes.
What Are Shear Force and Bending Moment?
- Shear Force (V): The internal force that resists sliding between two sections of a beam. High shear can cause web or material failure, especially near supports.
- Bending Moment (M): The internal moment that causes a beam to bend. Excessive moment leads to flexural failure and deflection issues.
Understanding how loads are distributed throughout a beam is critical in structural analysis. Shear force and bending moment vary along the span depending on the type of loading and support.
Primary Formulas for Shear and Moment
- Shear at support for uniform load:
- Maximum moment for uniform load (simply supported):
- Maximum moment for point load at center:
Where:
- w: uniform load per unit length
- P: point load
- L: span length
These equations change for cantilevers, overhangs, multiple loads, and other scenarios. StruCalc applies the correct formulas automatically.
Features of StruCalc’s Moment and Shear Calculator
StruCalc’s module includes:
- Automatic Shear and Moment Diagrams
- Support for Uniform Loads, Point Loads, and Combinations
- Multi-span Beam Analysis
- Code-based Capacity Checks (ASD and LRFD)
- Graphical Output and Report Generation
Whether analyzing steel, wood, concrete, or engineered lumber, StruCalc streamlines internal force evaluations.
Applications of Shear and Moment Analysis
Engineers and designers use moment and shear calculators for:
- Floor and roof beam sizing
- Deck framing design
- Header and lintel checks above windows and doors
- Identifying critical sections for reinforcement
These calculations inform the design process by ensuring members can resist applied forces without overstressing.
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Get Started with StruCalc
If you need fast, code-compliant bending and shear checks, the StruCalc moment and shear calculator is the solution. Input your span, loads, and materials, and receive detailed calculations and diagrams instantly. Built for engineers, architects, builders, and students, StruCalc brings clarity to your structural analysis.
Try it free for 30 days at StruCalc.com.