Notes on SF and BM diagrams for frames

Question 2 of problem class 6 contains frames and the only difference between the frames
and beams, is that the frames are beams with bends in them! Thus, similar than for beams,
you can still use the method of sections to determine the internal forces anywhere in the frame.
Remember that there can be axial forces, shear forces, bending moments (and torsional
forces that we do not take into account for now) in every element of the frame. We are only
drawing SF and BM diagrams and both these are caused by forces acting perpendicular to
the elements, but we cannot ignore the axial forces as they may influence the SF and BM of
other elements in the frame with a different orientation. An easy example is given below
(Question 2b):
RAx = 4 kN A 2m B

RAy = -2 kN
2m
4 kN
C

2m

E
D 2m
RD = 2 kN

The shear force and bending moments can be drawn on each separate section (AB, BCD and
DE) or on the combined frame. For AB there is only the vertical force of -2 kN at A causing a
SF and BM. On BCD there is a force of 4kN perpendicular to the element at B and at C causing
SF and BM. For DE there is a perpendicular force of -2 kN working at D and 2kN at E, causing
SF and BM. Where the frame is cut, the BM transfers as a boundary condition.
Thus SF (kN) BM (kNm)