Deflection and Slope of a Simply Supported Beam

A simply supported beam is a type of beam that is supported on two ends and is free to rotate at those points. When a load is applied to the beam, it will deflect and bend due to the applied load. The amount of deflection and slope of the beam depends on various factors such as the type of load, the material properties, and the dimensions of the beam.

Deflection at Support

The deflection of a beam at any point can be calculated using the beam deflection formula. However, at the support of a simply supported beam, the deflection will always be zero. This is because the support provides a fixed point for the beam, which means that the beam cannot move or deflect at that point.

Slope at Maximum

The slope of a beam is the angle of rotation of the beam at a given point. The slope of a simply supported beam is maximum at the mid-span of the beam where the deflection is maximum. This is because the beam is subjected to maximum bending moment at the mid-span due to the load applied. As a result, the slope of the beam will be maximum at this point.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the deflection at the support of a simply supported beam is zero, while the slope is maximum at the mid-span of the beam where the deflection is maximum. Understanding the deflection and slope of a beam is important in designing and analyzing structures to ensure that they are safe and can withstand the loads applied to them.

At support