5 - Moment-Area Method - R2.1

Structural Analysis III Chapter 5 – The Moment-Area Method
Chapter 5 - The Moment-Area Method
5.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................... 3

5.1.1 Background .................................................................................................... 3
5.1.2 Theoretical Basis ........................................................................................... 4
5.1.3 Mohr’s First Theorem (Mohr I) ..................................................................... 6
5.1.4 Example 1 ...................................................................................................... 8
5.1.5 Mohr’s Second Theorem (Mohr II) ............................................................... 9
5.1.6 Example 2 .................................................................................................... 11
5.1.7 Sign Convention .......................................................................................... 12
5.2 Application to Determinate Structures ........................................................... 13
5.2.1 Basic Examples ............................................................................................ 13
5.2.2 Finding Deflections ..................................................................................... 16
5.2.3 Problems ...................................................................................................... 23
5.3 Application to Indeterminate Structures ........................................................ 25
5.3.1 Basis of Approach........................................................................................ 25
5.3.2 Example 6: Propped Cantilever ................................................................... 26
5.3.3 Example 7: 2-Span Beam ............................................................................ 35
5.3.4 Example 8: Simple Frame ........................................................................... 42
5.3.5 Example 9: Complex Frame ........................................................................ 50
5.3.6 Problems ...................................................................................................... 60
5.4 Further Developments ...................................................................................... 64
5.4.1 Theorem of Three Moments ........................................................................ 64
5.4.2 Numerical Calculation of Deformation ....................................................... 73
1 Dr. C. Caprani
5.1.2 Theoretical Basis

We consider a length of beam AB in its undeformed and deformed state, as shown on
the next page. Studying this diagram carefully, we note:
1. AB is the original unloaded length of the beam and A’B’ is the deflected
position of AB when loaded.
2. The angle subtended at the centre of the arc A’OB’ is θ and is the change in
slope from A’ to B’.
3. PQ is a very short length of the beam, measured as ds along the curve and dx
along the x-axis.
4. dθ is the angle subtended at the centre of the arc ds .
5. dθ is the change in slope from P to Q.
6. M is the average bending moment over the portion dx between P and Q.
7. The distance ∆ is known as the vertical intercept and is the distance from B’ to
the produced tangent to the curve at A’ which crosses under B’ at C. It is
measured perpendicular to the undeformed neutral axis (i.e. the x-axis) and so
is ‘vertical’.
4 Dr. C. Caprani
Basis of Theory
5 Dr. C. Caprani
5.1.3 Mohr’s First Theorem (Mohr I)
Development
Noting that the angles are always measured in radians, we have:
ds= R ⋅ dθ
ds
∴R =
dθ
From the Euler-Bernoulli Theory of Bending, we know:
1 M
=
R EI
Hence:
M
θ
d= ⋅ ds
EI
But for small deflections, the chord and arc length are similar, i.e. ds ≈ dx , giving:
M
θ
d= ⋅ dx
EI
The total change in slope between A and B is thus:
B B
M
∫ dθ = ∫ EI dx
A A
6 Dr. C. Caprani
The term M EI is the curvature and the diagram of this term as it changes along a
beam is the curvature diagram (or more simply the M EI diagram). Thus we have:
B
M
dθ BA = θ B − θ A = ∫ dx
A
EI
This is interpreted as:
[Change in slope]AB =  Area of 

M
diagram 
 EI  AB
This is Mohr’s First Theorem (Mohr I):
The change in slope over any length of a member subjected to bending is equal
to the area of the curvature diagram over that length.
Usually the beam is prismatic and so E and I do not change over the length AB,
whereas the bending moment M will change. Thus:
B
1
EI ∫A
θ AB = M dx
[ Area of M diagram ]AB

[Change in slope]AB =
EI
7 Dr. C. Caprani
5.1.4 Example 1
For the cantilever beam shown, we can find the slope at B easily:
Thus, from Mohr I, we have:
[Change in slope]AB =  Area of 

M
diagram 
 EI  AB
1 PL
θB − θ A = ⋅ L ⋅
2 EI
Since the slope at A is zero (it is a fixed support), i.e. θ A = 0 , we have:
PL2
θB =
2 EI
8 Dr. C. Caprani
5.1.5 Mohr’s Second Theorem (Mohr II)
Development
From the main diagram, we can see that:
d ∆ = x ⋅ dθ
But, as we know from previous,
M
θ
d= ⋅ dx
EI
Thus:
M
d∆
= ⋅ x ⋅ dx
EI
And so for the portion AB, we have:
B B
M
∫ d=
A
∆ ∫A EI ⋅ x ⋅ dx
B M 
= ∫
∆ BA ⋅ dx  x
 A EI 
M
= First moment of diagram about B
EI
This is easily interpreted as:
9 Dr. C. Caprani
 Area of   Distance from B to centroid 

 Vertical 
=
 Intercept 
M  ×  M 

  BA  diagram   of   diagram 
 EI  BA   EI  BA 
This is Mohr’s Second Theorem (Mohr II):
For an originally straight beam, subject to bending moment, the vertical

intercept between one terminal and the tangent to the curve of another
terminal is the first moment of the curvature diagram about the terminal where
the intercept is measured.
There are two crucial things to note from this definition:
• Vertical intercept is not deflection; look again at the fundamental diagram – it

is the distance from the deformed position of the beam to the tangent of the
deformed shape of the beam at another location. That is:
∆ ≠δ
• The moment of the curvature diagram must be taken about the point where the
vertical intercept is required. That is:
∆ BA ≠ ∆ AB
10 Dr. C. Caprani
5.1.6 Example 2
For the cantilever beam, we can find the defection at B since the produced tangent at
A is horizontal, i.e. θ A = 0 . Thus it can be used to measure deflections from:
Thus, from Mohr II, we have:
1 PL   2 L 
∆ BA =  ⋅ L ⋅
2 EI   3 
And so the deflection at B is:
PL3
δB =
3EI
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5.1.7 Sign Convention

Though the sign convention for Mohr’s Theorems is below, it is usually easier to note
the sense of displacements instead.
Positive Values
If the net area of the BMD is positive (mostly sagging), then:
• the change in slope between two points is measured anti-clockwise from the
tangent of the first point (Mohr’s First Theorem);
• the deflected position of the member lies above the produced tangent (Mohr’s
Second Theorem).
Negative Values
If the net area of the BMD is negative (mostly hogging), then:
• the change in slope between two points is measured clockwise from the tangent of
the first point (Mohr’s First Theorem);
• the deflected position of the member lies below the produced tangent (Mohr’s
Second Theorem).
12 Dr. C. Caprani
5.2 Application to Determinate Structures
5.2.1 Basic Examples
Example 3
For the following beam, find δ B , δ C , θ B and θC given the section dimensions shown
and E = 10 kN/mm 2 .
To be done in class.
13 Dr. C. Caprani
Example 4
For the following simply-supported beam, we can find the slope at A using Mohr’s
Second Theorem. The deflected shape diagram is used to identify relationships
between vertical intercepts and slopes:
The key to the solution here is that we can calculate ∆ BA using Mohr II but from the
diagram we can see that we can use the formula S = Rθ for small angles:
∆ BA = L ⋅ θ A
Therefore once we know ∆ BA using Mohr II, we can find θ A = ∆ BA L .
To calculate ∆ BA using Mohr II we need the bending moment and curvature

diagrams:
14 Dr. C. Caprani
Thus, from Mohr II, we have:
1 PL   L 
∆ BA =  ⋅ L ⋅
2 4 EI   2 
PL3
=
16 EI
But, ∆ BA = L ⋅ θ A and so we have:
∆ BA
θA =
L
PL2
=
16 EI
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5.2.2 Finding Deflections
General Procedure
To find the deflection at any location x from a support use the following relationships
between slopes and vertical intercepts:
Thus we:
1. Find the slope at the support using Mohr II as before;
2. For the location x, and from the diagram we have:
δ x = x ⋅ θ B − ∆ xB
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Maximum Deflection
To find the maximum deflection we first need to find the location at which this
occurs. We know from beam theory that:
dθ
δ=
dx
Hence, from basic calculus, the maximum deflection occurs at a slope, θ = 0 :
To find where the slope is zero:

1. Calculate a slope at some point, say support A, using Mohr II say;
2. Using Mohr I, determine at what distance from the point of known slope (A)
the change in slope (Mohr I), dθ Ax equals the known slope (θ A ).
3. This is the point of maximum deflection since:
θ A − dθ Ax = θ A − θ A = 0
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Example 5
For the following beam of constant EI:
(a) Determineθ A , θ B and δ C ;
(b) What is the maximum deflection and where is it located?
Give your answers in terms of EI.
The first step is to determine the BMD and draw the deflected shape diagram with
slopes and tangents indicated:
18 Dr. C. Caprani
Slopes at A and B
To calculate the slopes, we need to calculate the vertical intercepts and use the fact
that the intercept is length times rotation (or slope). Thus, for the slope at B:
 2  1   4  1 
EI ∆ AB =  ⋅ 2  ⋅ 2 ⋅ 53.4  +  2 +  ⋅ 4 ⋅ 53.4 
 3  2   3  2 
 4 20 
= 53.4  + 
3 3 
= 427.2
427.2
∴∆ AB =
EI
6θ B . Hence:
But, we also know that ∆ AB =
427.2
6θ B =
EI
71.2
∴θ B =
EI
Similarly for the slope at A:
 2  1   1  1 
EI ∆ BA =  ⋅ 4  ⋅ 4 ⋅ 53.4  +  4 + ⋅ 2  ⋅ 2 ⋅ 53.4 
 3  2   3  2 
 16 14 
= 53.4  + 
 3 3
= 534
534
∴∆ BA =
EI
6θ A and so:
But, we also know that ∆ BA =
19 Dr. C. Caprani
534
6θ A =
EI
89.2
∴θ A =
EI
Deflection at C
To find the deflection at C, we use the vertical intercept ∆ CB and θ B :
From the figure, we see:
δ=
C
4θ B − ∆ CB
And so from the BMD and slope at B:
1  4 
δ C 4 (1.33 ⋅ 53.4 ) −  ⋅ 4 ⋅ 53.4  
EI=
2  3 
142.3
∴δ C =
EI
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Maximum Deflection
The first step in finding the maximum deflection is to locate it. We know two things:
1. Maximum deflection occurs where there is zero slope;
2. Maximum deflection is always close to the centre of the span.
Based on these facts, we work with Mohr I to find the point of zero slope, which will
be located between B and C, as follows:
Change in rotation = θ B − 0 = θ B
But since we know that the change in slope is also the area of the M EI diagram we
need to find the point x where the area of the M EI diagram is equal to θ B :
Thus:
)  53.4 ⋅  ⋅ ⋅ x
x 1
EI (θ B − 0=
 4 2
x2
EIθ B = 53.4
8
71.2
But we know that θ B = , hence:
EI
21 Dr. C. Caprani
 71.2 
2
x
EI   = 53.4
 EI  8
x 2 = 10.66
x = 3.265 m from B or 2.735 m from A
So we can see that the maximum deflection is 265 mm shifted from the centre of the
beam towards the load. Once we know where the maximum deflection is, we can
calculate is based on the following diagram:
Thus:
δ max
= xθ B − ∆ xB
 x2   x 
EI δ max = x (1.33 ⋅ 53.4 ) −  53.4   
 8  3 
= M ( 4.342 − 1.450 )
154.4
δ max =
EI
22 Dr. C. Caprani
5.2.3 Problems
Problem 1
For the beam of Example 4, using only Mohr’s First Theorem, show that the slope at
support B is equal in magnitude but not direction to that at A.
Problem 2
For the following beam, of dimensions b = 150 mm and d = 225 mm and
E = 10 kN/mm 2 , show that θ B = 7 × 10−4 rads and δ B = 9.36 mm .
Problem 3
For a cantilever AB of length L and stiffness EI, subjected to a UDL, show that:
wL3 wL4
=θB = ; δB
6 EI 8 EI
Problem 4
For a simply-supported beam AB with a point load at mid span (C), show that:
PL3
δC =
48 EI
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Problem 5
For a simply-supported beam AB of length L and stiffness EI, subjected to a UDL,
show that:
wL3 wL3 5wL4

θA =; θB =
− ; δC =
24 EI 24 EI 384 EI
Problem 6
For the following beam, determine the deflections at A, E and the maximum overall
deflection in the span. Take EI = 40 MNm 2
Ans. 6.00 mm, 2.67 mm, 8.00 mm
24 Dr. C. Caprani
5.3 Application to Indeterminate Structures
5.3.1 Basis of Approach

Using the principle of superposition we will separate indeterminate structures into a
primary and reactant structures.
For these structures we will calculate the deflections at a point for which the
deflection is known in the original structure.
We will then use compatibility of displacement to equate the two calculated

deflections to the known deflection in the original structure.
Doing so will yield the value of the redundant reaction chosen for the reactant
structure.
Once this is known all other load effects (bending, shear, deflections, slopes) can be
calculated.
See the chapter on the Basis for the Analysis of Indeterminate Structures for more on
this approach.
25 Dr. C. Caprani
5.3.2 Example 6: Propped Cantilever
Problem
For the following prismatic beam, find the maximum deflection in span AB and the
deflection at C in terms of EI.
26 Dr. C. Caprani
Solution
Find the reaction at B

Since this is an indeterminate structure, we first need to solve for one of the unknown
reactions. Choosing VB as our redundant reaction, using the principle of
superposition, we can split the structure up as shown:
Final = Primary + Reactant
In which R is the value of the chosen redundant.
In the final structure we know that the deflection at B, δ B , must be zero as it is a

roller support. So from the BMD that results from the superposition of the primary
and reactant structures we can calculate δ B in terms of R and solve since δ B = 0 .
27 Dr. C. Caprani
We have from Mohr II:
 1  2    1  2  
EI ∆ BA=  ⋅ 2 ⋅ 200  2 + ⋅ 2   +  −  ⋅ 4 ⋅ 4 R  ⋅ 4  
 2  3    2  3  
2000 64
= − R
3 3
1
= ( 2000 − 64 R )
3
But since θ A = 0 , δ B =∆ BA =0 and so we have:
EI ∆ BA =
0
1
( 2000 − 64 R ) =0
3
64 R = 2000
R = +31.25 kN
The positive sign for R means that the direction we originally assumed for it
(upwards) was correct.
28 Dr. C. Caprani
At this point the final BMD can be drawn but since its shape would be more complex
we continue to perform calculations using the primary and reactant structure BMDs.
Find the location of the maximum deflection

This is the next step in determining the maximum deflection in span AB. Using the
knowledge that the tangent at A is horizontal, i.e. θ A = 0 , we look for the distance x
from A that satisfies:
dθ Ax = θ A − θ x = 0
By inspection on the deflected shape, it is apparent that the maximum deflection

occurs to the right of the point load. Hence we have the following:
29 Dr. C. Caprani
So using Mohr I we calculate the change in slope by finding the area of the curvature
diagram between A and x. The diagram is split for ease:
The Area 1 is trivial:
1 200 200
A1 = ⋅2⋅ =
2 EI EI
For Area 2, we need the height first which is:
30 Dr. C. Caprani
4 − x 4 R 4 ⋅ 125 − 125 125 125

h2 = ⋅ = = − x
4 EI 4 EI EI EI
And so the area itself is:
125 125 
A2 =
x⋅ − x
 EI EI 
For Area 3 the height is:
125 125 125  125

h3 = − − x = x
EI  EI EI  EI
And so the area is:
1 125
A3 = ⋅x⋅ x
2 EI
Being careful of the signs for the curvatures, the total area is:
EIdθ Ax =− A1 + A2 + A3
 125  125 2
=−200 + x 125 − x + x
 4  8
 125 125  2
= −  x + 125 x − 200
 8 4 
Setting this equal to zero to find the location of the maximum deflection, we have:
125 2
− x + 125 x − 200 = 0
8
5 x 2 − 40 x + 64 =
0
31 Dr. C. Caprani
Thus, x = 5.89 m or x = 2.21 m . Since we are dealing with the portion AB,
x = 2.21 m .
Find the maximum deflection

Since the tangent at both A and x are horizontal, i.e. θ A = 0 and θ x = 0 , the deflection
is given by:
δ max = ∆ xA
Using Mohr II and Areas 1, 2 and 3 as previous, we have:
Area 1:
200
A1 x1 = − ⋅ 1.543
EI
308.67
= −
EI
Area 2:
4 − 2.21 4 R 55.94
=
h2 ⋅=
4 EI EI
55.94 2.21
A2 x2 =2.21 ⋅ ⋅
EI 2
136.61
=
EI
Area 3:
32 Dr. C. Caprani
125 69.06
h3 = 2.21 ⋅ =
EI EI
1 69.06 
A3 x3 = ⋅ 2.21 ⋅ ⋅ 1.473
2 EI 
112.43
=
EI
Thus:
EI ∆ xB =EI δ max =−308.67 + 136.61 + 112.43

−59.63
⇒ δ max =
EI
Since we already know the direction of the deflection (downwards) we neglect the
sign and focus only on the magnitude of the deflection:
59.63
δ max =
EI
Find the deflection at C

For the deflection at C we again use the fact that θ A = 0 with Mohr II to give:
δ C = ∆ CA
33 Dr. C. Caprani
From the diagram we have:
1  4  1  8
EI ∆ CA =−  ⋅ 2 ⋅ 200  + 4  +  ⋅ 4 ⋅ 125  2 + 
2  3  2  3
+100
δC =
EI
Again, since we already know the direction of the displacement (upwards) we will
neglect the sign and concentrate on the magnitude of the deflection:
100
δC =
EI
34 Dr. C. Caprani
5.3.3 Example 7: 2-Span Beam
Problem
For the following beam of constant EI, using Mohr’s theorems:
(a) Draw the bending moment diagram;
(b) Determine, δ D and δ E ;
Give your answers in terms of EI.
35 Dr. C. Caprani
Solution
In the last example we knew the slope at A and this made finding the deflection at the
redundant support relatively easy. Once again we will choose a redundant support, in
this case the support at B.
In the present example, we do not know the slope at A – it must be calculated – and
so finding the deflection at B is more involved. We can certainly use compatibility of
displacement at B, but in doing so we will have to calculate the vertical intercept
from B to A, ∆ BA , twice. Therefore, to save effort, we use ∆ BA as the measure which
we apply compatibility of displacement to. We will calculate ∆ BA through calculation
of θ A (and using the small angle approximation) and through direct calculation from
the bending moment diagram. We will then have an equation in R which can be
solved.
Slope at A
Breaking the structure up into primary and redundant structures:
So we can see that the final slope at A is:
θ=
A
θ AP + θ AR
36 Dr. C. Caprani
To find the slope at A in the primary structure, consider the following:
By Mohr II we have:
EI∆ CA= ( 240 ⋅ 9 )( 6=) 12960
12θ A , hence:
But we know, from the small angle approximation, ∆ CA =
∆ CA 12960
θ AP
EI= = = 1080
12 12
1080
∴θ AP =
EI
To find the slope at A for the reactant structure, we have:
37 Dr. C. Caprani
1 
EI ∆ CA =  ⋅ 12 ⋅ 3R  ( 6 ) = 108R
2 
∆ CA
R
12θ AR
=
∆ CA
R
108 R
θ
EI= R
A
= = 9R
12 12
9R
∴θ AR =
−
EI
Notice that we assign a negative sign to the reactant slope at A since it is in the
opposite sense to the primary slope (which we expect to dominate).
Thus, we have:
θ=
A
θ AP + θ AR
1080 9 R
= −
EI EI
38 Dr. C. Caprani
Vertical Intercept from B to A

The second part of the calculation is to find ∆ BA directly from calculation of the
curvature diagram:
Thus we have:
1  1  3 1  3
EI ∆ BA =−  ⋅ 6 ⋅ 3R  ⋅ 6  + ( 240 ⋅ 3)   +  ⋅ 3 ⋅ 240  3 + 
2  3  2 2  3
EI ∆ BA =−18 R + 1080 + 1440
2520 − 18 R
∴∆ BA =
EI
Solution for R
6θ A by compatibility of displacement, and so we can
Now we recognize that ∆ BA =
substitute the above relationships into the following equation to find R:
39 Dr. C. Caprani
6θ A
∆ BA =
2520 − 18 R  1080 9 R 
= 6 − 
EI  EI EI 
= 6 (1080 − 9 R )
2520 − 18 R
36 R = 3960
R = 110 kN
Solution to Part (a)

With this we can immediately solve for the final bending moment diagram by
superposition of the primary and reactant BMDs:
Solution to Part (b)

We are asked to calculate the deflection at D and E. However, since the beam is
symmetrical δ D = δ E and so we need only calculate one of them – say δ D . Using the
(now standard) diagram for the calculation of deflection:
40 Dr. C. Caprani
We find θ A from before using the value found for R:
1080 9 (110 ) 90
θA = − =
EI EI EI
And the vertical intercept above is found from the BMD as follows:
1  3 
EI ∆ DA =  ⋅ 3 ⋅ 75  = 112.5
2  3 
But δ=
D
3θ A − ∆ DA , thus:
=
EI δ D 3 ( 90 ) − 112.5
= 157.5
157.5
δ=
D
δ=
E
EI
41 Dr. C. Caprani
5.3.4 Example 8: Simple Frame
Problem
For the following frame of constant EI = 40 MNm 2 , using Mohr’s theorems:

(a) Draw the bending moment and shear force diagram;
(b) Determine the horizontal deflection at E.
42 Dr. C. Caprani
Solution - Part (a)
Solve for a Redundant

As with the beams, we split the structure into primary and reactant structures:
We also need to draw the deflected shape diagram of the original structure to identify
displacements that we can use:
43 Dr. C. Caprani
To solve for R we could use any known displacement. In this case we will use the
vertical intercept ∆ DB as shown, because:
• We can determine ∆ DB for the original structure in terms of R using Mohr’s
Second Theorem;
6θ B and so using Mohr’s First Theorem for the original
• We see that ∆ DB =
structure we will find θ B , again in terms of R;
• We equate the two methods of calculating ∆ DB (both are in terms of R) and

solve for R.
44 Dr. C. Caprani
Find ∆ DB by Mohr II
Looking at the combined bending moment diagram, we have:
1  2  1   2 
EI ∆ DB =  ⋅ 6 ⋅ 6 R  ⋅  ⋅ 6  −  ⋅ 3 ⋅ 120  ⋅ 3 + ⋅ 3
2  3  2   3 
= 72 R − 900
Find θ B by Mohr I
Since the tangent at A is vertical, the slope at B will be the change in slope from A to
B:
dθ BA
= θB − θ A
= θB − 0
= θB
M 
= Area of  
 EI  B to A
However, in this case we must be very careful. Looking at the net BMD and the
deflected shape of member AB we see that the negative area must be larger since the
member has tension on the left hand side (since, it is bending to the right):
45 Dr. C. Caprani
Thus the area is:
M 
Area of   =−120 ⋅ 6 + 6 ⋅ 6 R
 EI  B to A
=−720 + 36 R
However, we are interested in the magnitude of the area (not its sign) to find the
magnitude of the slope at B. Therefore, by Mohr I:
M 
EIθ B = Area of  
 EI  B to A
=
−720 + 36 R
= 720 − 36 R
This is so since we know the negative area (i.e. the 720) to be bigger than the positive
area (i.e. the 36R).
46 Dr. C. Caprani
Equate and Solve for R

As identified previously:
6θ B
∆ DB =
72 R − 900= 6 [ 720 − 36 R ]
R = 18.13 kN
Diagrams
Knowing R we can then solve for the reactions, bending moment and shear force
diagrams. The results are:
47 Dr. C. Caprani
Solution – Part (b)

The movement at E is comprised of δ Dx and 6θ D as shown in the deflection diagram.
These are found as:
• Since the length of member BD doesn’t change, δ Dx = δ Bx . Further, by Mohr II,
δ Bx = ∆ BA . Thus we have:
EI ∆ BA = [6 R ⋅ 6][3] − [120 ⋅ 6][3]

= −202.5
• By Mohr I, θ=
D θ B − dθ BD , that is, the slope at D is the slope at B minus the
change in slope from B to D:
And so we have:
1  1 
EIdθ BD =  ⋅ 6 R ⋅ 6  −  ⋅ 120 ⋅ 3
2  2 
= 146.25
Notice that we still use the primary and reactant diagrams even though we know R.
We do this because the shapes and distances are simpler to deal with.
48 Dr. C. Caprani
From before we know:
EIθ B = 36 R − 720 = 67.5
Thus, we have:
=
EI θ D EIθ B − dθ BD
= 67.5 − 146.25
= −78.75
The minus indicates that it is a slope in opposite direction to that of θ B which is clear
from the previous diagram. Since we have taken account of the sense of the slope, we
are only interested in its absolute value. A similar argument applies to the minus sign
for the deflection at B. Therefore:
δ=
Ex δ Bx + 6θ D
202.5 78.75
= + 6⋅
EI EI
675
=
EI
Using EI = 40 MNm 2 gives (showing the unit conversions first):
 kN ⋅ m3   kN ⋅ m3 
δ Ex = 2
= 3
=[ m ] = mm × 103  =
 MN ⋅ m   kN ⋅ m × 10 
2
675
=
40
= 16.9 mm
49 Dr. C. Caprani
5.3.5 Example 9: Complex Frame
Problem
For the following frame of constant EI = 40 MNm 2 , using Mohr’s theorems:

(a) Determine the reactions and draw the bending moment diagram;
(b) Determine the horizontal deflection at D.
50 Dr. C. Caprani
Solution
In this frame we have the following added complexities:
• There is a UDL and a point load which leads to a mix of parabolic, triangular
and rectangular BMDs;
• There is a different EI value for different parts of the frame – we must take this
into account when performing calculations and not just consider the M diagram
but the M EI diagram as per Mohr’s Theorems.
Solve for a Redundant

As is usual, we split the frame up:
Next we draw the deflected shape diagram of the original structure to identify
displacements that we can use:
51 Dr. C. Caprani
To solve for R we will use the vertical intercept ∆ DC as shown, because:
• We can determine ∆ DC for the original structure in terms of R using Mohr II;
6θC and so using Mohr I for the original structure we will

• We see that ∆ DC =
find θ B , again in terms of R;
• As usual, we equate the two methods of calculating ∆ DC (both are in terms of

R) and solve for R.
52 Dr. C. Caprani
The Slope at C
To find the slope at C, we must base our thoughts on the fact that we are only able to
calculate the change in slope from one point to another using Mohr I. Thus we
identify that we know the slope at A is zero – since it is a fixed support – and we can
find the change in slope from A to C, using Mohr I. Therefore:
dθ A to=
C
θC − θ A
= θC − 0
= θC
At this point we must recognize that since the frame is swaying to the right, the
bending moment on the outside ‘dominates’ (as we saw for the maximum deflection
calculation in Example 6). The change in slope is the difference of the absolute
values of the two diagrams, hence we have, from the figure, and from Mohr I:
53 Dr. C. Caprani
( 360 ⋅ 8) +  
1
EIdθ A to C= ⋅ 240 ⋅ 4  − ( 6 R ⋅ 8 )
2 
=
EI θC 3360 − 48 R
3360 − 48 R
∴θ C =
EI
The Vertical Intercept DC

Using Mohr II and from the figure we have:
 1  2    1  3  
1.5 EI ∆ DC=  ⋅ 6 ⋅ 6 R  ⋅ 6   −  ⋅ 6 ⋅ 360  ⋅ 6  
 2  3    3  4  
1.5 EI ∆ DC= 72 R − 3240
48 R − 2160
∴∆ DC =
EI
Note that to have neglected the different EI value for member CD would change the
result significantly.
Solve for R
6θ C and so:
By compatibility of displacement we have ∆ DC =
54 Dr. C. Caprani
48 R − 2160= 6 ( 3360 − 48R )

336 R = 22320
R = 66.43 kN
With R now known we can calculate the horizontal deflection at D.
Part (b) - Horizontal Deflection at D

From the deflected shape diagram of the final frame and by neglecting axial
deformation of member CD, we see that the horizontal displacement at D must be the
same as that at C. Note that it is easier at this stage to work with the simpler shape of
the separate primary and reactant BMDs. Using Mohr II we can find δ Cx as shown:
 1  2 
EI ∆= ( 6 R ⋅ 8 )( 4 )  − ( 360 ⋅ 8 )( 4 ) +  ⋅ 4 ⋅ 240  4 + ⋅ 4  
2  3 
CA

= 192 R − 14720
Now substituting R = 66.4 kN and δ Dx = δ Cx = ∆ BA :
55 Dr. C. Caprani
−1971.2
=δ Dx = 49.3 mm →
EI
Note that the negative sign indicates that the bending on the outside of the frame
dominates, pushing the frame to the right as we expected.
Part (a) – Reactions and Bending Moment Diagram

Reactions
Taking the whole frame, and showing the calculated value for R, we have:
∑=
F y 0 ∴ ( 20 ⋅ 6 ) − 66.4 −
= VA 0 ∴
=VA 53.6 kN ↑
∑=
F x 0 ∴HA −=
60 0 ∴ H=
A 60 kN ←
62
∑ M about A =0 ∴ M A + 66.4 ⋅ 6 − 20 ⋅ 2 − 60 ⋅ 4 =0 ∴ M A =+201.6 kNm
56 Dr. C. Caprani
Note that it is easier to use the superposition of the primary and reactant BMDs to
find the moment at A:
6 ( 66.4 ) − 600 =
MA = −201.6 kNm
The negative sign indicate the moment on the outside of the frame dominates and so
tension is on the left.
Bending Moment Diagram

We find the moments at salient points:
∑ M about C = 0
62
∴ M C + 20 ⋅ − 66.4 ⋅ 6 =0
2
∴MC = +38.4 kNm
And so tension is on the bottom at C.
The moment at B is most easily found from superposition of the BMDs as before:
M=
B
6 ( 66.4 ) − 360
= 38.4 kNm
And so tension is on the inside of the frame at B. Lastly we must find the value of
maximum moment in span CD. The position of zero shear is found as:
57 Dr. C. Caprani
53.6
=x = 2.68 m
20
And so the distance from D is:
6 − 2.68 =
3.32 m
The maximum moment is thus found from a free body diagram as follows:
∑ M about X = 0
3.322
∴ M max + 20 ⋅ − 66.4 ⋅ 3.32 =
0
2
∴MC = +110.2 kNm
And so tension is on the bottom as
expected.
Summary of Solution
In summary the final solution for this frame is:
58 Dr. C. Caprani
59 Dr. C. Caprani
5.3.6 Problems
Problem 1
For the following prismatic beam, find the bending moment diagram and the slope at
E in terms of EI.
=
Ans. VC 25kN ↑ , θ E = 130 EI
Problem 2
For the following prismatic beam, find the bending moment diagram and the slope at
C in terms of EI and the maximum deflection in the span AB.
=
Ans. VC 150kN ↑ , θ C = 1125 EI , δ max AB = 900 EI
60 Dr. C. Caprani
Problem 3
For the following prismatic frame, find the bending moment and shear force diagrams
and the horizontal deflection at E in terms of EI.
=
Ans. VC 27.5kN ↑ , δ Ex = 540 EI , θC = 45 EI
Problem 4
and the horizontal deflection at C and the rotation of joint B. Take
EI= 40 × 103 kNm 2 .
=
Ans. ↑ , δ Cx 12.8 mm → , θ B = 2.4 mrad
VC 32kN=
61 Dr. C. Caprani
Problem 5
and the horizontal and vertical deflections at D. Take EI= 40 × 103 kNm 2 .
=
Ans. VC 14.4kN ↓ , δ Dx = 0.865mm , δ Dy = 5.58 mm
Problem 6
and the horizontal deflection at D. Take EI= 40 × 103 kNm 2 .
Ans. VE 56.25kN ↑ , δ Dx = 19.5mm

=
62 Dr. C. Caprani
Problem 7
and the horizontal deflection at E. Take EI= 40 × 103 kNm 2 .
Ans.= =
VF 5kN ↓ , δ Ex 15.47 mm →
Problem 8
For the following prismatic frame, find the bending moment and shear force
diagrams, the vertical deflection at E, and the horizontal deflection at B. Take
EI= 40 × 103 kNm 2 .
=
Ans. H A 15.75kN → , δ Fy = 3.32 mm , δ Bx = 5.625 mm
63 Dr. C. Caprani
5.4 Further Developments
5.4.1 Theorem of Three Moments
Introduction
Continuous beams feature in many structures, and as such the ability to analyse them
is crucial to efficient design. Clapeyron derived the Three Moment Theorem in about
1857 for this purpose, thereby enabling the design of the previously ‘undesignable’.
He derived them using Mohr’s Theorems.
They were initially derived for the very general case of spans with different flexural
rigidities, span lengths and support levels. We will only consider the case of different
span lengths to keep the problem simple. Even so, the solution procedure is exactly
the same and the result is widely applicable.
64 Dr. C. Caprani
Development
We consider the following two internal spans of an arbitrary continuous beam:
65 Dr. C. Caprani
To solve the problem we will identify two relationships and join them to form an
equation that enables us to solve continuous beams.
First, we calculate the two vertical intercepts, ∆ AB and ∆ CB :
A1 x1
∆ AB= = θ B L1 (1)
EI
Ax
∆ CB = 2 2 =−θ B L2 (2)
EI
Note that ∆ CB is negative since it is upwards. We can solve these two equations for
θB :
A1 x1
= θB
EIL1
A2 x2
= −θ B
EIL2
And then add them to get:
A1 x1 A2 x2
+ =
0
EIL1 EIL2
And since EI is common we have our first relationship:
A1 x1 A2 x2
+ =
0 (3)
L1 L2
66 Dr. C. Caprani
The next step involves determining the first moment of area of the two final bending
moment diagrams in terms of the free and reactant bending moment diagrams. In
words, the first moment of the final BMD about A is equal to the sum of the first
moments of the free BMD and reactant BMDs about A. Mathematically, from the
figure, we thus have:
 L  1  2  
S1 x1 + ( M A L1 )  1  +  ( M B − M A ) L1  L1  
A1 x1 = (4)
  2  2  3  
In which the reactant BMD has been broken into a rectangular and triangular parts
(dotted in the figure). Similarly, we have:
 L  1  2  
S 2 x2 + ( M C L2 )  2  +  ( M B − M C ) L2  L2  
A2 x2 = (5)
  2  2  3  
Introducing equations (4) and (5) into equation (3) gives:
 S1 x1 M A L1 ( M B − M A ) L1   S 2 x2 M C L2 ( M B − M C ) L2 
 + + + + + =0
 L1 2 3   L2 2 3 
Carrying out the algebra:
 M A L1 M B L1 M A L1   M C L2 M B L2 M C L2  Sx S x 
 + − + + − =− 1 1 + 2 2 
 2 3 3   2 3 3   L1 L2 
 M A L1 2 M B L1   M C L2 2 M B L2  Sx S x 
 + + + =− 1 1 + 2 2 
 6 6   6 6   L1 L2 
67 Dr. C. Caprani
And finally we arrive at the Three Moment Equation:
Sx S x 
M A L1 + 2 M B ( L1 + L2 ) + M C L2 =
−6  1 1 + 2 2  (6)
 L1 L2 
This equation relates the unknown reactant moments to the free bending moment
diagram for each two spans of a continuous beam. By writing this equation for each
adjacent pair of spans, a sufficient number of equations to solve for the unknown
reactant moments result.
The term in brackets on the right of the equation represents the total angular
discontinuity ( EI (θ BA + θ BC ) ) at B if A, B and C were pinned supports.
As a further development, we can use equations (1) and (2) with Mohr’s First
Theorem to find:
1   x1  L1 
θA
=  S1 1 −  − ( 2 M A + M B ) 
EI   L1  6 
1  x L 
θ B =  − S1 1 + 1 ( M A + 2 M B ) 
EI  L1 6 
(7)
1 x2 L2 
= −
 2 S + ( M C
+ 2 M )
B 
EI L2 6 
1   x2  L2 
θC
=  S2 1 −  − ( 2M C + M B ) 
EI   L2  6 
With this information, all deflections along the beam can be found using the
numerical procedure to be explained later.
68 Dr. C. Caprani
Example 10
To illustrate the application of the Three Moment Theorem, and also to derive a
useful result, we will consider the general case of a four-span beam with equal spans,
L, subject to a UDL, w:
In the figure, the areas of the free BMDs are all:
2  wL2  wL3
= =
3  8 
S1,2,3,4 L
12
And the distances to the centroids are all L 2 . Thus we can write:
69 Dr. C. Caprani
Sx 1  wL3   L  wL3
= =  
L L  12   2  24
Next, we apply the Three Moment Equation to each pair of spans:
 wL3 wL3 
ABC: 2M B ( L + L ) + M C L =
−6  +
 24 24 
 wL3 wL3 
BCD: M B L + 2M C ( L + L ) + M D L =
−6  +
 24 24 
 wL3 wL3 
CDE: M C L + 2M D ( L + L ) =
−6  +
 24 24 
Simplifying:
wL2
4M B + M C =
−
2
wL2
M B + 4M C + M D =
−
2
wL2
M C + 4M D =
−
2
This is three equations with three unknowns and is thus readily solvable.
An algebraic approach is perfectly reasonable, but we can make better use of the tools
at our disposal if we rewrite this in matrix form:
4 1 0  M B  1

1 4 1  M = −  wL 2

   C  1
2
 0 1 4   M D  
1
70 Dr. C. Caprani
Now we can write can solve for the moment vector suing matrix inversion:
−1
M B   4 1 0  1
  wL2  
M C  = − 1 4 1  1
M  2  

 D 
 0 1 4  1
To obtain the inverse of the 3×3 matrix we could resort to algebra, but a better idea is
to use Excel or Matlab. Using Matlab:
We can see that the decimal results of the matrix inverse are really just multiples of
1/56 (the matrix determinant). In Excel we can find the matrix inverse (using
MINVERSE), but cannot find the determinant directly, so we use the Matlab result:
71 Dr. C. Caprani
Thus our solution becomes:
M B  15 −4 1  1 12 

  wL2  1     wL2  
M C  =
−    −4 16 −4  1 = − 8
  2  56   112  
M D   1 −4 15  1 12 
It is quite useful to know the denominators for easier comparisons, thus:
 − wL2 − wL2 − wL2 

[M MC MD] = 
9.33 
B
 9.33 14
72 Dr. C. Caprani
5.4.2 Numerical Calculation of Deformation
Introduction
One of the main applications of the Moment-Area method in the modern structural
analysis environment, where use of computers is prevalent, is in the calculation of
displacements. Most structural analysis software is based on the matrix stiffness (or
finite element) method. This analysis procedure returns the displacements and slopes
at node points only. The problem then remains to determine the displacements along
members, in between the nodes. This is where the moment-area method is applied in
typical analysis software programs.
We will demonstrate a simple procedure to find the deflections and slopes along a
member once the bending moments are known at discrete points along the member.
In addition, we will consider the member prismatic: EI will be taken as constant,
though this not need be so in general.
You can download all the files and scripts from the course website.
73 Dr. C. Caprani
Development
Consider a portion of a deformed member with bending moments known:
Our aim is to determine the slope and deflection at each station (1, 2, …) given the
values of bending moment M 1 , M 2 , and the starting slope and deflection, θ 0 , δ 0 .
We base our development on the fundamental Euler-Bernoulli relationships upon
which Mohr’s Theorems were developed:
74 Dr. C. Caprani
i
M
θi − θi −1 =
∫i −1 EI dx (8)
δ i − δ i −1 =
∫ θ dx (9)
i −1
From these equations, and from the diagram, we can see that:
1
∆θ = ∫ Mdx
EI
∆δ =∫ θ dx
Thus we have:
1
θ=i θi −1 + ∆θ= θi −1 + ∫ Mdx (10)
EI
δ=i δ i −1 + ∆=
δ δ i −1 + ∫ θ dx (11)
In this way once θ 0 , δ 0 are known, we can proceed along the member establishing
slopes and deflections at each point.
75 Dr. C. Caprani
Implementation
To implement this method, it just remains to carry out the integrations. To keep
things simple, we will use the Trapezoidal Rule. More accurate methods are possible,
such as Simpson’s Rule, but since we can usually choose the number of stations to be
large, little error will result.
Thus equations (10) and (11) become:
1 h
θi =+
θi −1 ( M i −1 + M i ) (12)
2 EI
1
δi =
δ i −1 + (θi −1 + θi ) h (13)
2
To proceed we will consider the following example, for which we know the result:
• Simply-support beam;
• L =6 m;
• EI
= 180 × 103 kNm 2 ;
• Loading: UDL of 20 kN/m.
Our main theoretical result is:
5wL4 5 ( 20 ) 64 1
=δ = = 1.885mm
384 EI 384 (1.8 × 10 ) 1000
5
76 Dr. C. Caprani
MS Excel
We can implement the formulas as follows:
And drag down these formulas for 100 points to get the following spreadsheet:
The deflection with 100 points along the beam is 1.875 mm – a very slight difference
to the theoretical result.
77 Dr. C. Caprani
Matlab
Matlab has a very useful function for our purposes here: cumtrapz. This function
returns the cumulative results of trapezoidal integration along a function. Thus our
script becomes:
% Using Moment-Area to find deformations along members
L = 6;
EI = 1.8e5;
w = 20;
h = 0.05;
x = 0:h:L;
Va = w*L/2;
M = Va.*x-w*x.^2./2;
Ro = -w*(L)^3/(24*EI);
Ri = cumtrapz(M)*h/EI + Ro;
d = cumtrapz(Ri)*h;
subplot(3,1,1);
plot(x,M);
ylabel('Bending Moment (kNm)');
subplot(3,1,2);
plot(x,1e3*Ri);
ylabel('Slope (mrads)');
subplot(3,1,3);
plot(x,d*1e3);
xlabel ('Distance Along Member (m)');
ylabel('Deflection (mm)');
As may be seen, most of this script is to generate the plots. The cumtrapz function
takes the hard work out of this approach.
The central deflection result is 1.875 mm again.
The output is in this screenshot:
78 Dr. C. Caprani
For maximum flexibility, it is better to write a generic function to perform these

tasks:
function [R d] = MomentArea(M, EI, h, Ro, do)

% This function calculates the slopes and deflections along a flexural
% member given the bending moment vector, M, a distance step, h, initial
% deflection and slope at node 0, do, Ro, and the flexural rigidity, EI.
n = length(M); % number of stations

R = zeros(n,1); % vector of slopes
d = zeros(n,1); % vector of deflections
R(1) = Ro; % assign starting slope and deflection

d(1) = do;
R = cumtrapz(M)*h/EI + Ro; % Do moment area calcs

d = cumtrapz(R)*h;
To use this function for our example we make the following calls:
79 Dr. C. Caprani
L = 6;
EI = 1.8e5;
w = 20;
h = 0.05;
x = 0:h:L;
Va = w*L/2;
M = Va.*x-w*x.^2./2;
Ro = -w*(L)^3/(24*EI);
[R d] = MomentArea(M, EI, h, Ro, 0);
And once again, of course, our result is 1.875 mm.
As one final example, we calculate deflections for the beam of Example 7. To do this
we make use of the calculated value for θ A = −90 EI and use the following script:
% Ex. 7: 2-span beam - calculate deformed shape

EI = 1e6;
h = 0.1;
x = 0:h:12;
Mfree = 80*x - 80*max(x-3,0) - 80*max(x-9,0);
Mreactant = 55*x-110*max(x-6,0);
M = Mfree - Mreactant;
Ro = -90/EI;
[R d] = MomentArea(M, EI, h, Ro, 0);
subplot(3,1,1);
plot(x,M); grid on;
ylabel('Bending Moment (kNm)');
subplot(3,1,2);
plot(x,1e3*R); grid on;
ylabel('Slope (mrads)');
subplot(3,1,3);
plot(x,d*1e3); grid on;
xlabel ('Distance Along Member (m)');
ylabel('Deflection (mm)');
Note that we have used a value of EI that makes it easy to interpret the results in
terms of EI.
80 Dr. C. Caprani
As can be seen, the complete deflected profile is now available to us. Further, the
deflection at D is found to be 157.4 EI , which compares well to the theoretical value
of 157.5 EI , found in Example 7.
Rotation (mrads) Bending Moment (kNm)
100
-100
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
0.1
-0.1
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
0
Deflection (mm)
-0.1
-0.2 X: 3
0 2 4
Y: -0.1574 6 8 10 12
Distance Along Member (m)
81 Dr. C. Caprani
5.4.3 Non-Prismatic Members
Introduction
In all examples so far we have only considered members whose properties do not
change along their length. This is clearly quite a simplification since it is necessary
for maximum structural efficiency that structures change shape to deal with
increasing or reducing bending moments etc. The Moment-Area Method is ideally
suited to such analyses. We will consider one simple example and one slightly more
complex and general.
82 Dr. C. Caprani
Example 11
We consider the following cantilever and determine the deflections at B and C:
The BMD and curvature diagrams thus become:
To calculate the deflections, consider the deflected shape diagram:
From Mohr’s First Theorem:
83 Dr. C. Caprani
 25 
δB =∆ BA = ⋅ 2  [1]
 EI 
Thus:
50
δB =
EI
Similarly, though with more terms for the deflection at C we have:
 25   50 
δC =∆ CA = ⋅ 2  [3] +  ⋅ 2  [1]
 EI   EI 
250
δC =
EI
84 Dr. C. Caprani
Example 12
We determine here an expression for the deflection at the end of a cantilever subject
to a point load at its tip which has linearly varying flexural rigidity:
We must derive expression for both the moment and the flexural rigidity. Considering
the coordinate x, increasing from zero at B to L at A:
M ( x ) = Px
x
EI ( x ) =EI B + ( EI A − EI B )
L
If we introduce the following measure of the increase in EI:
EI A − EI B
k=
EI B
We can write:
85 Dr. C. Caprani
( x ) EI B 1 + k 
x
=
EI
 L
Now we can write the equation for curvature:
M Px
( x) =
EI  x
EI B 1 + k 
 L
PL x
= ⋅
EI B L + kx
To find the tip deflection we write:
L
M
δB =∆ BA =∫ ( x ) x dx
0 EI
And solving this (using symbolic computation!) gives:
PL3  −2k + 2log (1 + k ) + k 

2
δB =  
2 EI  k3 
To retrieve our more familiar result for a prismatic member, we must use L’Hopital’s
Rule to find the limit as k → 0 . As may be verified by symbolic computation:
PL3  −2k + 2log (1 + k ) + k  PL3

2
=δ B Prismatic lim
=  
k →0
2 EI  k3  3EI
86 Dr. C. Caprani
As a sample application, let’s take the following parameters:

• P = 10 kN ;
• L = 4 m;
• EI B = 10 MNm 2 .
We will investigate the change in deflection with the increase in EI at A. Firstly, we

find our prismatic result:
PL3 10 ( 43 )
δ B Prismatic
= = = 21.33 mm
3EI 3 (10 × 103 )
And then we plot the deflection for a range of k values:
25 X: 0.01
Y: 21.17
20
Deflection (mm)
15
X: 2
Y: 8.789
10
5
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2
Stiffness Increase at A (k)
As can be seen, when k = 2 , in other words when EI A = 3EI B , our deflection is 8.79
mm – a reduction to 41% of the prismatic deflection.
87 Dr. C. Caprani
Matlab Scripts
The Matlab scripts to calculate the previous results are:
% Use Symbolic Toolbox to perform integration

syms P L EI x k positive;
M = sym('P*x'); % M equation
EI = sym('EI*(1+k*x/L)'); % EI equation
Mohr2 = M/EI*x; % 1st moment of M/EI diagram
def = int(Mohr2,x,0,L); % definite integral
pretty(def); % display result
% Prove limit as k->0 is prismatic result

d1 = P*L^3/(3*EI) % prismatic result
d2 = limit(def,k,0) % limit of non-prismatic
% Plot change in deflection by varying k

clear all;
P = 10; L = 4; EI = 10e3; k = 0.01:0.01:2;
d = 1/2*P*L^3*(-2.*k+2*log(1+k)+k.^2)/EI./k.^3;
plot(k,d*1e3); xlabel('Stiffness Increase at A (k)');
ylabel('Deflection (mm)')
88 Dr. C. Caprani
5.4.4 Problems
Problem 1
Use the Three Moment Theorem to analyze the following beam for the bending
moment diagram.
Problem 2
moment diagram.
89 Dr. C. Caprani
Problem 3
moment diagram.
Problem 4
Determine the bending moment diagram for the following beam. Determine the
vertical displacement of D in terms of EI.
90 Dr. C. Caprani
Problem 5
Determine the bending moment diagram for the following motorway signage support
frame. Take EI AB = 1.5 EI BC and determine the vertical deflection of C.
Problem 6
Determine the bending moment diagram for the following frame.
91 Dr. C. Caprani
The following problems are considered Genius Level!

For the following problems, you may use any computational tool to assist the solution
of this problem. Verify your general solution by assuming numerical values for the
variables and checking with an appropriate structural analysis software package.
Check your general solution also reduces to the prismatic case.
Problem 7
Determine the bending moment diagram and deflection at C for the following beam
in terms of the ratio of the flexural rigidities at A and C.
Problem 8
Determine the deflection at C for the following frame in terms of the ratio of the
flexural rigidities at A and C.
92 Dr. C. Caprani
Problem 8
Determine the deflection at C for the following frame. Take EI=
1
10 × 103 kNm 2 and
EI=
2
25 × 103 kNm 2 .
93 Dr. C. Caprani
5.5 Appendix
5.5.1 Past Exam Questions
Summer 1998
=
Ans. ↑ , δ Dx 4500 EI →
VC 75kN=
94 Dr. C. Caprani
Summer 2005
=
Ans. ↓ , δ Dx 1519 EI →
VD 22.5kN=
95 Dr. C. Caprani
Summer 2006
=
Ans. δ C 36 mm ↓=
, δ max AB 27.6 mm ↑
96 Dr. C. Caprani
Summer 2007
4. (a) For the frame shown in Fig. Q4(a), using Mohr’s Theorems:
(i) Determine the vertical reaction at joint C;
(ii) Draw the bending moment diagram;
(iii) Determine the horizontal deflection of joint C.
Note:
You may neglect axial effects in the members.
Take EI= 36 × 103 kNm 2 for all members.

(15 marks)
 




FIG. Q4(a)
=
Ans. ↑ , δ Cx 495 EI →
VC 15kN =
97 Dr. C. Caprani
Semester 1 2007/8
QUESTION 3
For the beam shown in Fig. Q3, using the Moment-Area Method (Mohr’s Theorems):
(i) Draw the bending moment diagram;
(ii) Determine the maximum deflection;
(iii) Draw the deflected shape diagram.
Note:
Take EI= 20 × 103 kNm 2 .
(40 marks)


    
   
FIG. Q3
=
Ans. VB 70kN ↓ , δ max, AC = 47.4 EI , δ C = 267 EI , δ E = 481 EI
98 Dr. C. Caprani
Semester 1 2008/9
QUESTION 3
For the frame shown in Fig. Q3, using the Moment-Area Method (Mohr’s Theorems):
(ii) Determine the vertical and horizontal deflection of joint E;
Note:
Take EI= 20 × 103 kNm 2 .
(40 marks)



   
 
FIG. Q3
=
Ans. =
VB 37.5kN ↑ , δ Ey 20 mm ↓
= , δ Ex 65 mm →
99 Dr. C. Caprani
Semester 1 2009/10
QUESTION 4
For the frame shown in Fig. Q4, using the Moment-Area Method (Mohr’s Theorems):
(ii) Determine the horizontal deflection of joint D;

(25 marks)
Note:
Take EI= 20 × 103 kNm 2 .

 


 
 
FIG. Q4
=
Ans. =
VD 4.7 kN ↑ , δ Dx 725.6 mm →
100 Dr. C. Caprani

Semester 1 2010/11
QUESTION 4
(ii) Determine the deflection at D;

(25 marks)
Note:
• The beam has flexural rigidity of 2EI from A to B and EI for B to D.
• Take EI= 20 × 103 kNm 2 .

 
   
  
FIG. Q4
= ↑ , δ D 41 mm ↓
Ans. VC 155.5kN =
101 Dr. C. Caprani

Semester 1 2011/12
QUESTION 4
(ii) Determine the deflection at the mid-span of member BC;

(25 marks)
Note:
• Take EI= 20 × 103 kNm 2 .

  

 



FIG. Q4
Ans. H=
A
H=
D
31.6 kN , δ=
mid
BC 15.4 mm ↓
102 Dr. C. Caprani

5.5.2 Area Properties

These are well known for triangular and rectangular areas. For parabolic areas we
have:
Shape Area Centroid
2 1
A = xy x= x
3 2
2 5
A = xy x= x
3 8
1 3
A = xy x= x
3 4
103 Dr. C. Caprani

5.6 References
• Benham, P.P., Crawford, R.J., and Armstrong, C.G., Mechanics of Engineering
Materials, 2nd Edn., Pearson Prentice Hall, Harlow, 1996.
• Coates, R.C., Coutie, M.G., and Kong, F.K., Structural Analysis, 3rd Edn.,
Chapman & Hall, 1987.
• Ghali, A., Neville, A., and Brown, T.G., Structural Analysis: A Unified
Classical and Matrix Approach, 6th Edn., Taylor & Francis, 2009.
• Neal, B.G., Structural Theorems and their Applications, Pergamon Press, 1964.
• Rees, D.W.A., Mechanics of Solids and Structures, Imperial College Press,
London, 2000.
104 Dr. C. Caprani

5 - Moment-Area Method - R2.1

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Structural Analysis III Chapter 5 – The Moment-Area Method

Chapter 5 - The Moment-Area Method

5.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................... 3

5.1.2 Theoretical Basis

4. dθ is the angle subtended at the centre of the arc ds .

5. dθ is the change in slope from P to Q.

6. M is the average bending moment over the portion dx between P and Q.

5.1.3 Mohr’s First Theorem (Mohr I)

From the Euler-Bernoulli Theory of Bending, we know:

The total change in slope between A and B is thus:

This is interpreted as:

[Change in slope]AB =  Area of 

This is Mohr’s First Theorem (Mohr I):

[ Area of M diagram ]AB

Thus, from Mohr I, we have:

[Change in slope]AB =  Area of 

Since the slope at A is zero (it is a fixed support), i.e. θ A = 0 , we have:

5.1.5 Mohr’s Second Theorem (Mohr II)

But, as we know from previous,

And so for the portion AB, we have:

This is easily interpreted as:

 Area of   Distance from B to centroid 

This is Mohr’s Second Theorem (Mohr II):

For an originally straight beam, subject to bending moment, the vertical

There are two crucial things to note from this definition:

• Vertical intercept is not deflection; look again at the fundamental diagram – it

Thus, from Mohr II, we have:

And so the deflection at B is:

5.1.7 Sign Convention

5.2 Application to Determinate Structures

5.2.1 Basic Examples

Therefore once we know ∆ BA using Mohr II, we can find θ A = ∆ BA L .

To calculate ∆ BA using Mohr II we need the bending moment and curvature

Thus, from Mohr II, we have:

But, ∆ BA = L ⋅ θ A and so we have:

5.2.2 Finding Deflections

Hence, from basic calculus, the maximum deflection occurs at a slope, θ = 0 :

To find where the slope is zero:

Similarly for the slope at A:

From the figure, we see:

And so from the BMD and slope at B:

wL3 wL3 5wL4

Ans. 6.00 mm, 2.67 mm, 8.00 mm

5.3 Application to Indeterminate Structures

5.3.1 Basis of Approach

We will then use compatibility of displacement to equate the two calculated

5.3.2 Example 6: Propped Cantilever

Find the reaction at B

Final = Primary + Reactant

In which R is the value of the chosen redundant.

In the final structure we know that the deflection at B, δ B , must be zero as it is a

We have from Mohr II:

But since θ A = 0 , δ B =∆ BA =0 and so we have:

Find the location of the maximum deflection

By inspection on the deflected shape, it is apparent that the maximum deflection

The Area 1 is trivial:

For Area 2, we need the height first which is:

4 − x 4 R 4 ⋅ 125 − 125 125 125

And so the area itself is:

For Area 3 the height is:

125 125 125  125

Find the maximum deflection

Using Mohr II and Areas 1, 2 and 3 as previous, we have:

EI ∆ xB =EI δ max =−308.67 + 136.61 + 112.43