Calculate Tip Deflection of Beam Under Applied Loads

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    Beam Deflection
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the tip deflection of a beam under various applied loads, including its own weight. The relevant equation for deflection due to a uniform load is provided, and the user has successfully calculated the deflection for a uniform load of 1000 lb/ft. Superposition is emphasized as necessary for combining the effects of multiple loads, including a 4000 lb load and a 5000 lb load, which are not evenly spaced. Guidance is given on using specific equations for different sections of the beam to find the total deflection. The conversation highlights the complexity of the calculations and the importance of correctly applying beam deflection formulas.
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Homework Statement


For the given beam (link), calculate the tip deflection for the given loadings. In addition to the applied load, the beam wt 2000 lbs/ ft.
E = 30 * 10^6 psi
I = 60 * 10^3 in^4

http://i52.tinypic.com/990xef.jpg


Homework Equations


deflection for the uniform load is: w= -p/ (24*E*I)* [(x^4) - (4*L*x^3) + (6*L^2*x^2)]

You use this to calculate the uniform load of 1000 lb/ft. I think you use this for the weight of the beam (2000 lb/ft) as well, but i am not too sure.
I have solved the deflection function by hand and have checked on sites and it is the correct case for uniform load.

The Attempt at a Solution


I know we have to use superposition, we have to separate them by uniform load of
1000 lb/ft, the 4000 lb load, 5000 lb load, and the weight of the beam itself... After I separate them, I solved for the deflection function for the uniform load of 1000 lb/ft.
I know that I need to do this for all four loads and then add them together at the end but I don't know how to calculate the deflection for the 4000 lb load, and 5000 lb load since they are not evenly spaced.
 
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Check your deflection tables for a cantilever beam with a single load applied away from the end. You can calculate the deflection of the 4000# load by itself, and the 5000# load by itself. The total deflection at the free end is obtained by superposition.
 
there are two equations for one load for 4000 and two equations for 5000, Do use all 4 of them.. The two equations have a limit, the first equation is from the left end to the Force/load and second is from the Force/load to the right end. Here is the link: Look at case 2:
http://www.advancepipeliner.com/Resources/Others/Beams/Beam_Deflection_Formulae.pdf

So i will have to use all 4 equations, 2 of each force, and add them?
 
If you look at Beam Type 2 and the equations for deflection y, note that each equation is applicable for a certain portion of the beam:

Eq. 1 - x is between the load P and the fixed end of the beam 0 < x < a
Eq. 2 - x is between the load P and the free end of the beam a < x < L

However, your problem asks you to calculate the tip deflection, so use the eq. in the right hand column (Max. deflection) of the table for dmax.
 
Thanks bro :)
Wasted about 4 hours trying to calculate the two load, lol.
 
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