Bending moment query re. uniformly distributed load and concentrated load(s)

In summary, a beam with a length of 8m, supported by two structures 1.5m from each end and 5m apart, is subjected to a uniformly distributed load of 25kN/m between the supports. There are also concentrated loads of 20kN at the left end, 30kN at the right end, and 40kN in the centre. The support forces are 99.5kN for the left support and 115.5kN for the right, and the shear force diagram has been drawn. To incorporate the centre load in the bending moment diagram, a "spike" is added on top of the normal curve for the uniformly distributed load. The bending moment diagram
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Homework Statement


A horizontal beam 8m long, resting on two supports 1.5m from each end (supports are 5m apart), carries a uniformly distributed load of 25kN/m between the supports, with concentrated loads of 20kN at the left end of the beam, 30kN at the right end, and 40kN in the centre.

1. Draw shear force diagram
2. Draw bending moment diagram
3. Determine magnitude and position of max bending moment
4. Determine size of beam section required to limit the max bending stress to 500MN/m2


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I have worked out the support forces to be 99.5kN for the left support and 115.5kN for the right, and have drawn the shear force diagram (vertical lines for forces, horizontal lines for no forces, and diagonal lines for uniformly distributed load).

If there was no concentrated load at the centre i could draw the bending moment diagram too, but i don't know how to incorporate the centre load.

Do i add the centre load to the centre-point of the uniformaly distributed load (resulting in a higher, steeper curve); do i do the normal curve for the uniformly distributed load with a "spike" of sorts on top for the centre load; or do i do something else entirely?

EDIT: Also, does the bending moment diagram start and end at zero, or is it zero at the supports?

Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
"Do the normal curve for the uniformly distributed load with a "spike" of sorts on top for the centre load". This is graphical integration, the result of which is a bent base line. Any vertical ordinate should give you the correct BM at that section. You could answer your own final question if you knew the definition of BM which says: The bending moment at a section is the algebraic sum of moments on one side of that section (or the other side - it doesn't matter - they should be the same) This is the same process you probably used to obtain the reactions, but you haven't shown those details.
 

1. What is a bending moment?

A bending moment is a measure of the internal forces within a structure that cause it to bend or twist under an applied load. It is typically represented by the symbol "M" and is measured in units of force multiplied by distance.

2. How is a bending moment affected by a uniformly distributed load?

A uniformly distributed load, also known as a UDL, is a load that is spread out evenly over the entire length of a structure. The bending moment caused by a UDL is directly proportional to the magnitude of the load and the distance from the support. This means that the bending moment will increase as the load or the distance from the support increases.

3. How is a bending moment affected by a concentrated load?

A concentrated load is a single, point load applied to a specific location on a structure. The bending moment caused by a concentrated load is directly proportional to the magnitude of the load and the distance from the support. However, unlike a UDL, the bending moment caused by a concentrated load will only affect the portion of the structure that is located between the load and the support.

4. How do you calculate the bending moment at a specific point on a structure?

To calculate the bending moment at a specific point, you will need to know the magnitude and location of all applied loads, as well as the properties of the structure (such as its length, material, and cross-sectional shape). You can then use equations and principles from mechanics and structural analysis to determine the bending moment at that point.

5. How does a bending moment affect the design of a structure?

The bending moment is an important factor to consider in the design of a structure because it can cause the structure to bend or twist, potentially leading to failure. Engineers and designers must carefully consider the magnitude and distribution of loads in order to ensure that the bending moment does not exceed the structural capacity of the materials being used.

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