2006-10-12 03:30:47 · 3 answers · asked by ? 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
First you have to understand what a moment it. It is force times distance. Leverage if you like. A load at mid span of a bend develops a moment (leverage force x distance) between the supports of the beam and the point where the load is applied.
That moment tried to bend the beam. (compress the top and stretch the bottom) The forces that cause bending could be the weight of the beam itself plus what ever applied load is being carried by the beam. Not much point in having a beam if its not carrying a load.
It really is easier to understand by looking at a diagram. There are different formulas for different loading and support conditions.
Good luck.
2006-10-12 06:38:36 · answer #1 · answered by Roadkill 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bending moment is a measure of force time distance. Consider a cantilever beam. If a force is placed on the beam, it will want to rotate about it's support. The more distance the force is away from the support, the more moment is produced.
Now, to resist the moment, the beam has to provide an equal and opposite moment. The beam does this typically through the flanges. The top flange and bottom flange produce equal and opposite forces. One is in compression, one is in tension. These are called bending stresses.
2006-10-12 14:20:49 · answer #2 · answered by daedgewood 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check out aisc.org if you want a diagram.
2006-10-12 10:35:24 · answer #3 · answered by himalayaplaya69 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋