Precision logistics calculator
Beam Capacity Calculator
Screen idealised simple-beam reactions, moment, shear, deflection, and engineer-supplied capacity criteria.
Schematic planning preview
Method, examples, and limitations
How to use the Beam Capacity Calculator
This beam tool is deliberately a mechanics-screening calculator. It separates an idealised simple-beam model from capacities supplied by a manufacturer or qualified engineer and never turns an incomplete check into a certification statement.
Calculation method
Define geometry and the idealised model
Enter span, elastic modulus, and second moment of area in their correct dimensions. Optional section modulus produces informational elastic bending stress only. The model assumes a simply supported, prismatic, small-deflection, linear-elastic Euler-Bernoulli beam.
Represent the real load pattern
Uniform load, a centre point load, or multiple positioned point loads can be combined. Asymmetric cases are solved piecewise rather than assuming maximum deflection always occurs at midspan. Mass inputs require an explicit gravity conversion.
Compare only supplied criteria
Moment, shear, deflection, and rated-load utilisation are calculated only when a positive allowable value is supplied. Beam-pair loads retain the visible analysed-beam share. Missing criteria produce partial screening, not a full-pass claim.
Worked planning example
For a 2.7 m span carrying a 4 kN/m uniform load with E = 200 GPa and I = 8×10⁻⁶ m⁴, the idealised model gives 3.645 kN·m maximum moment, 5.4 kN maximum shear, and approximately 1.729951 mm maximum deflection.
What this result does not replace
Mechanics screening only. This is not rack engineering certification, structural design approval, or proof of system integrity. Final capacity requires manufacturer data and qualified engineering review.
Review the formula trace and the assumptions returned with each result. Project documents, supplier data, contracts, local rules, and qualified professional review take priority over a generic planning calculation.
Frequently asked questions
What does this beam calculator assess?
It screens an idealised simply supported, prismatic, linear-elastic beam for reactions, moment, shear, and deflection.
Does an L/180 deflection result prove a rack is safe?
No. A selected deflection criterion does not certify connectors, uprights, system stability, impact damage, load placement, or code compliance.
Why are mass and force separate?
Kilograms and pounds are mass units. They become force only through an explicit mass-load conversion using the displayed gravity value.
Why does beam-pair load share need confirmation?
Real pallet contact and placement may not divide load equally between front and rear beams, so the assumed share must remain visible.
What is rated-capacity comparison mode?
It compares the entered load arrangement with a capacity supplied by a manufacturer or engineer without claiming to derive that certified capacity.