Compute the maximum bending moment:
A simply supported beam of 7 m length carries point loads 2 kN, 4 kN and 6 kN at distances of 1 m, 2 m & 4 m from the fixed end respectively. Draw BMD & SFD and also compute the maximum bending moment that will take place.
Solution
By taking moments around A to find RB,
RB × 7 - (6 × 4) - (4 × 2) - (2 × 1) = 0
Therefore, RB = 4.857 kN, and
RA = 12 - 4.857 = 7.143 kN
Shear Force (Starting from left end A)
SF at A, FA = + 7.143 kN
SF just left of C = + 7.143 kN
SF just right of C = + 7.143 - 2 = + 5.143 kN
SF just left of D = + 5.143 kN
SF just right of D = + 5.143 - 4 = + 1.143 kN
SF just left of E = + 1.143 kN
SF just right of E = + 1.143 - 6 = - 4.857 kN
SF just left of E = - 4.857 kN = Reaction at B
Bending Moment (Starting from right end B) BM at A, MA = 0
BM at E, ME = + 4.857 × 3 = + 14.571 kN m
BM at D, MD = + (4.857 × 5) - (6 × 2) = + 12.285 kN m
BM at C, MC = + (4.857 × 6) - (6 × 3) - (4 × 1) = + 7.142 kN m
Or MC = 7.143 × 1 = + 7.143 kN m (considering left side)
BM at A, MA = 0
Figure
Maximum bending moment shall occur at a point where the shear force changes sign. Here, SF alters from positive to negative at E. The Bending Moment at E shall be maximum bending moment.
Thus, Mmax = + 14.571 kN m