Homework

A cantilever beam subjected to UDL and Point Loads is shown below:

Reaction Force
The reaction force applies on the fixed point i.e. A. In order to determine reaction force at A, take
equilibrium of forces along vertical axis i.e.

∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0

𝑅𝑎 − 10 − 20 − (30 × 1) − 40 − (50 × 2) = 0
Thus,

𝑅𝑎 = 200 𝑘𝑁

Bending Moment Equations

For any length of value x, bending moment can be derived at any point x on the beam using bending
moment equations. Such equations can be derived by taking a cross section at any point over the
length of the beam and then taking moment along the known points on the beam (i.e. points subjected
to loads). Bending moment equations for each section of the beam have been formulated as below,

i. Section between Point E and F

Create a section between E and F at a distance x from point F. Taking moment along that section from
the L.H.S, we get,

𝑀𝑥 = −10𝑥

ii. Section between Point D and E

Create a section between D and E at a distance x from point E. Taking moment along that section from
the L.H.S, we get,

𝑀𝑥 = −10(3 + 𝑥) − 20𝑥 = −30𝑥 − 30

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iii. Section between Point C and D
Create a section between C and D at a distance x from point D. Taking moment along that section from
the L.H.S, we get,

𝑥2
𝑀𝑥 = −10(4 + 𝑥) − 20(1 + 𝑥) − 30 ( ) = −15𝑥 2 − 30𝑥 − 60
2

iv. Section between Point B and C

Create a section between B and C at a distance x from point C. Taking moment along that section from
the L.H.S, we get,

𝑀𝑥 = −10(5 + 𝑥) − 20(2 + 𝑥) − 30(0.5 + 𝑥) = −60𝑥 − 105

v. Section between Point A and B

Create a section between A and B at a distance x from point B. Taking moment along that section from
the L.H.S, we get,

𝑥2
𝑀𝑥 = −10(8 + 𝑥) − 20(5 + 𝑥) − 30(0.5 + 3 + 𝑥) − 40𝑥 − 50 ( ) = −25𝑥 2 − 100𝑥 − 285
2

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