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Calculation Basis
MethodElastic beam response with transparent input assumptions
ScopeImperial steel preliminary checks
ReviewTechnically reviewed: 2026-04-15

Assumptions & Limits

  • The page supports preliminary checks but does not replace full code compliance review.
  • Allowable limits remain project-specific and must be checked separately.
  • Elastic modulus, inertia, and loading inputs must match the real member.

Reference Basis

AISC-Oriented Setup
Starting unitsft, kip, ksi, in^4
Typical material basisStructural steel with E about 29,000 ksi
Common beam caseSimply supported beam with full-span uniform load
Typical sequenceCompute response first, then check against the project limit
Current preset span30 ft
Current preset load2.0 kip/ft
Engineering Notes
  • This page starts in imperial mode because AISC-style checks usually begin with feet, kip, ksi, and inch-based section data.
  • The calculator gives the elastic response engine, but the acceptable deflection limit still depends on occupancy, finishes, framing role, and project criteria rather than on one universal AISC number.
  • If the beam is part of a continuous frame, has partial restraint, or needs code-specific load combinations, move on to the advanced beam pages or the standards pages.
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