In this chapter, we consider the deflection of statically determinate beams.

Because the design of beams is frequently governed by rigidity rather than strength, the computation of deflections is an integral component of beam analysis. For example, building codes specify limits on deflections as well as stresses. Excessive deflection of a beam not only is visually disturbing but also may cause damage to other parts of the building. For this reason, building codes limit the maximum deflection of a beam to about 1/360th of its span. Deflections can also govern the design of machinery, cars, and aircraft. In the design of a lathe, for example, the deflections must be kept below the dimensional tolerances of the parts being machined. Cars and aircraft must have su cient rigidity to control structural vibrations.