MODULE 8: SHEAR FORCE AND BENDING MOMENT
LECTIRE 1: BEAMS
1.1 Definition
Members with support loadings applied perpendicular to their longitudinal axis are called beams.
• Beams classified according to the way they are supported.
1.2 Types of Supports
As a general rule, if a support prevents translation of a body in a given direction, then a force is
developed on the body in the opposite direction. Similarly, if rotation is prevented, a couple
moment is exerted on the body.
1.3 Types of beam
a) Determinate Beam
The force and moment of reactions at supports can be determined by using the 3 equilibrium
equations of statics i.e.
