Module 6

Area Moment of Inertia

Defined as the capacity of a cross section to resist bending applied
primarily in mechanics to determine strength and deflection of beams
based on their cross-sectional area

Rectangular Moment of Inertia Polar Moment of Inertia

UNITS: 𝒎𝒎𝟒 , 𝒊𝒏𝟒 , 𝒇𝒕𝟒

measure of the distribution of the area/mass from the
axis in question
Ellipse
 BEAM
BENDING/FLEXURE
FORMULA
Used to find the moment
of inertia of an area about
any axis that is parallel to
an axis passing through
the centroid and about
which the moment of
inertia is known
STEP 1: Identify the reference axis or axes of
rotation.
STEP 2: Divide the area into its composite
parts of simpler shapes (i.e. rectangular,
triangles, circles, etc.).
Negative areas shall constitute to negative
moments of inertia.
STEP 3: Locate the centroids of each portion
with respect to all or the required reference
axis/axes of rotation.
STEP 4: Apply transfer formula. ( 𝑰 = 𝑰𝑪 +
𝑨𝒅𝟐 )
NOTE: The transfer formula shall only be applicable when there is a 𝒅 value. Meaning, if
the centroid of a certain shape coincides with the axis or point of reference then the second
term (𝑨𝒅𝟐 ) of the transfer formula shall be neglected since 𝒅 = 𝟎.
Find the moment of inertia of a rectangle 60mm wide and
120mm deep about Centroidal axis. Find also least radius of
gyration.
Find the radius of gyration of hollow circular sectors of external
diameter 300mm and internal dia 200mm.
Determine the position of centroid and calculate the moment
of inertia about its horizontal centroidal axis of a T – beam
shown in figure