Beam Load Calculator
Calculate bending moments, shear forces, and deflections for structural beams. Supports simply supported, cantilever, and fixed-end conditions with visual moment and shear diagrams.
Steel: 200,000 MPa, Concrete: ~25,000 MPa
Required for deflection calculation
Max Moment
90.00
Max Shear
60.00
Deflection
16.88
Positive moment = tension at bottom (sagging)
Positive shear = upward force on left of section
Left Reaction (R₁)
60.00 kN
Right Reaction (R₂)
60.00 kN
Notes:
- Moments, shears and reactions only - this tool does not size or check a member. Section selection needs bending, shear, lateral-torsional buckling and deflection checks by a qualified engineer.
- Cantilever and fixed-pinned: fixed support at the left end; point-load position measured from the left support
- Verify with detailed structural calculations
- Consider load combinations per applicable code
- Deflection limit typically L/360 for floors, L/240 for roofs
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This calculator provides PRELIMINARY ESTIMATES ONLY and is intended for planning and budgeting purposes. Results should NOT be used for final structural design or construction without verification by a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).
By using this tool, you acknowledge that:
1. All calculations are indicative and may not account for site-specific conditions, load combinations, or local code requirements.
About This Calculator
The Beam Load Calculator helps structural engineers analyze and design beams for buildings and infrastructure across the UAE and Gulf. Calculate bending moments, shear forces, and deflections for various support conditions and load types. Essential for preliminary beam sizing, checking existing designs, and understanding load distribution in concrete and steel structures.
When to Use This Calculator
- Preliminary sizing of reinforced concrete beams
- Analyzing load effects for steel beam selection
- Checking deflection limits against serviceability requirements
- Understanding moment and shear distribution for complex loads
- Verifying hand calculations before detailed analysis
How to Use This Calculator
Select Support Conditions
Choose beam type: simply supported, cantilever, fixed both ends, or fixed-pinned (propped cantilever).
Enter Beam Geometry
Input the span length and, optionally, the section's second moment of area (I) for deflection.
Define Loads
Enter a uniformly distributed load (UDL) or a single point load at mid-span or at any position.
Specify Material
Select material properties (E modulus) for deflection calculations.
View Results
Get maximum moment, shear, deflection, and visual diagrams for the beam.
Typical Scenarios in UAE & Gulf Projects
A 6m span floor beam carries 45 kN/m UDL from slabs and partitions. The calculator shows maximum moment 202.5 kNm at mid-span, maximum shear 135 kN at supports, and deflection of 12mm. Results guide selection of 300×600mm RC beam with appropriate reinforcement.
A 12m simply supported steel beam carries a 15 kN/m UDL. The calculator gives a 270 kNm maximum moment at mid-span and 90 kN reactions. The structural engineer then selects and checks the steel section (bending, shear, lateral-torsional buckling and deflection); the tool does not size the member.
Frequently Asked Questions
Take Your Calculations Further
This calculator reflects the logic built into Arkan's construction management platform.
Last Updated: January 2026
Standards Reference: Elastic beam formulas (moments, shears, reactions); member design per ACI 318-19 or BS EN 1992 by a qualified engineer