Beam Calculator Dialog Box

The Beam Calculator dialog box performs deflection and stress calculations on structural steel cross sections.

To display this dialog box:

Click Beam Calculator (Toolbox toolbar) or Toolbox > Beam Calculator.

Load Type

Load Type Specifies the load type. Select a load type using the slider to the right of the preview window.

Fixed at one end, loaded at the other end

Fixed at one end, uniformly loaded

Supported at both ends, load in middle

Supported at both ends, uniformly loaded

Supported at both ends, unsymmetrical load

Supported at both ends, two symmetrical loads

Type of Calculation Specifies the calculation type. Select Deflection or Stress. The Input area updates to show the appropriate properties.

Input

Click Beams to select a beam from the Structural Steel dialog box. Some Input values update automatically when you select a beam.
Axis Determines the value for Moment of inertia or Section modulus.
Units Specifies the property units. Select Inch or Metric.
Deflection Deflection calculation only.
Modulus of elasticity Deflection calculation only.
Moment of inertia Deflection calculation only.
Length  
Load  
Offset  
Stress Stress calculation only.
Section Modulus Stress calculation only.