Beam Size Calculator

The Beam Size Calculator is a useful tool for determining the necessary cross-sectional area for a beam based on the load it must bear, the span length, and the type of material used.

Importance and Usage

Correctly sizing a beam is crucial for structural integrity in construction projects. An undersized beam could lead to failure, while an oversized beam can be inefficient and costly.

Formula Used

The calculator uses the formula: \[ \text{Beam Size} = \frac{\text{Load} \times \text{Span} \times \text{Material Factor}}{100} \] Different factors are used based on the material type:

• Steel: 12
• Wood: 20
• Concrete: 15

Example Calculation

For a steel beam with a load of 50 kN and a span of 4 meters: \[ \text{Beam Size} = \frac{50 \times 4 \times 12}{100} = 24 \text{ cm²}