Maximum Moment in a Simple Span

Due a Set of Moving Loads

CE 331, Spring 2009

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A simple procedure exists for calculating the maximum moment in a simply supported span
due to a set of moving loads:
1) Calculate the centroid of the loads, x
2) Position the loads so that midspan of the beam is halfway between the centroid and
the nearest load to the centroid
3) Calculate the moment beneath the load nearest to the centroid
Example (Problem 8.39 in Text). Calculate the maximum moment in a 40-foot simply
supported beam due to the following axle loads:

24k
6

24k

12

16
X

1) Centroid of loads
The centroid can be found from the following formula: x Pi = xi Pi
x=

[(0' )(24 k ) + (16' )(24 k ) + (28' )(6 k )]

= 10.22'
(24 k + 24 k + 6 k )
Set up a reference axis aligned with the rear wheel and positive to the left (as shown
above).

2) Position the loads so that the midspan is halfway between the centroid and the load
closest to the centroid.
midspan
24k

6k

24k

10.22

2a + 10.22' = 16' , a = 2.89'

midspan

5.11

16

12
6k

24k

24k

10.22
2.89

6.89

2.89

CE 331, Spring 2009

Maximum Moment in a Simple Span

Due a Set of Moving Loads

3) Calculate the moment in the beam beneath the load closest to the centroid.
( R Right )(40' ) = (6 k )(5.11' ) + (24 k )(17.11' ) + (24 k )(33.11' ), R Right = 30.90 k
max M = (30.90 k )(20'+2.89' ) (24 k )(16' ),

max M = 323 k ft

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