Types of Beams
Beams can be classified into many types based
on three main criteria. They are as follows:
1. Based
on geometry:
1. Straight
beam – Beam with straight profile
2. Curved
beam – Beam with curved profile
3. Tapered
beam – Beam with tapered cross section
4. Based
on the shape of cross section:
i.
I-beam – Beam with ‘I’ cross section
ii.
T-beam – Beam with ‘T’ cross section
iii.
C-beam – Beam with ‘C’ cross section
2. Based
on equilibrium conditions:
1. Statically
determinate beam – For a statically determinate beam, equilibrium conditions
alone can be used to solve reactions.
2. Statically
indeterminate beam – For a statically indeterminate beam, equilibrium
conditions are not enough to solve reactions. Additional deflections are needed
to solve reactions.
3. Based
on the type of support:
1. Simply
supported beam
2. Cantilever
beam
3. Overhanging
beam
4. Continuous
beam
5. Fixed
beam
Classification of
beams based on the type of support is discussed in detail below:
1. Simply supported beam:
A simple support offers only a vertical reaction. Horizontal moment or rotation of the member are not prevented at this support (Example Masonry Wall).
The following image illustrates a simply
supported beam.
simply supported beam
2. Cantilever beam:
A cantilever beam is fixed at one end and
free at other end. It can be seen in the image below.
Cantilever Beam
3. Overhanging beam:
A overhanging beam is a beam that has one or
both end portions extending beyond its supports. It may have any number of
supports. If viewed in a different perspective, it appears as if it is has the
features of simply supported beam and cantilever beam.
Overhanging Beam
4. Continuous beam:
A continuous beam has more than two supports
distributed throughout its length. It can be understood well from the image
below.
5. Fixed beam:
A fixed support offers a vertical reaction, a horizontal reaction and a moment reaction called fixed end moment. The member is restrained against any movement and rotation at this support. [Example: Built in end of beam, welded joints].
As the name suggests, fixed beam is a type of
beam whose both ends are fixed.
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