Calculating Reaction Forces in a Beam - Moment About Point B

In summary, when calculating the reaction forces in a beam and determining the moment of a uniformly distributed load (UDL) about a point, the UDL can be replaced with a resultant concentrated load acting at the center of gravity of the load distribution. In this scenario, the moment of the UDL becomes 15 kN/m * 7m * (2 + 3.5)m, where 2 + 3.5 = 5.5m is the distance from the point of reference to the center of the UDL.
  • #1
feedingjax
2
0
t5sivs.jpg


I am calculating the all reaction forces in this beam.
However, I want to ask:
By taking moment about point B, why does the moment of the UDL become 15*7*5.5 instead of 15*7*4.5

Thanks !
 
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  • #2
feedingjax said:
t5sivs.jpg


I am calculating the all reaction forces in this beam.
However, I want to ask:
By taking moment about point B, why does the moment of the UDL become 15*7*5.5 instead of 15*7*4.5

Thanks !

It's not clear where the 4.5 is measured from in the second expression.

The UDL is a constant 15 kN/m applied over a distance of 7 meters in total, therefore, the center of this load is 3.5 meters from either the LHS or the RHS of the UDL.
By taking point B as the moment reference, the moment of the UDL becomes 15 kN/m * 7 meters * (2 + 3.5) meters, where 2 + 3.5 = 5.5 meters is the distance from point B to the center of the UDL.
 
  • #3
When determining the moment of a distributed load about a point, you may find the moment by replacing the distributed load with a resultant concentrated load acting at the cg of the load distribution. Where is the cg of that load located along its 7 foot length?
 

FAQ: Calculating Reaction Forces in a Beam - Moment About Point B

How do you calculate the reaction force at point B in a beam?

The reaction force at point B in a beam can be calculated by taking the sum of moments about point B and setting it equal to zero. This method is known as the moment equilibrium equation and it takes into account the weight and any applied forces or moments acting on the beam.

What is the difference between a moment and a force in beam calculations?

A moment is a rotational force while a force is a linear force. In beam calculations, moments are measured in units of newton-meters (Nm) while forces are measured in units of newtons (N). Moments can cause a beam to bend or rotate while forces can cause a beam to move or deform.

Can the reaction force at point B ever be negative?

No, the reaction force at point B cannot be negative. This is because the reaction force is a result of the beam being supported at point B, which means it is pushing or pulling in the opposite direction of an applied force or moment. If the reaction force were negative, it would mean that the beam is pushing or pulling in the same direction as the applied force or moment, which is not possible.

What is the significance of calculating the reaction force at point B in beam analysis?

Calculating the reaction force at point B is important in beam analysis because it helps determine the stability and structural integrity of the beam. By knowing the reaction force, we can ensure that the beam can support the applied loads and moments without breaking or failing. It also allows for the proper design and placement of supports and connections for the beam.

Are there any assumptions made when calculating reaction forces in a beam?

Yes, there are some assumptions made when calculating reaction forces in a beam. One assumption is that the beam is in static equilibrium, meaning that the sum of forces and moments acting on the beam is equal to zero. Another assumption is that the beam is rigid and does not deform under the applied loads. Additionally, the beam is assumed to be homogeneous and the supports at point B are assumed to be fixed and not able to move or rotate.

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