The Three-Moment Equation

The three-moment equation gives us the relation between the moments between any three points in a
beam and their relative vertical distances or deviations. This method is widely used in finding the reactions
in a continuous beam.

Consider three points on the beam loaded as shown.

From proportions between similar triangles:

 → equation (1)

Values of t1/2 and t3/2

Substitute t1/2 and t3/2 to equation (1)

Multiply both sides by 6

Distribute 1/EI

Combine similar terms and rearrange

If E is constant this equation becomes,

If E and I are constant then,

For the application of three-moment equation to continuous beam, points 1, 2, and 3 are usually unsettling
supports, thus h1 and h3 are zero. With E and I constants, the equation will reduce to
Factors for the three-moment equation
The table below list the value of and for different types of loading.

Type of Loading
Concentrated load anywhere on the span.

Concentrated load at the midspan.

Uniform load over the entire span.

Increasing triangular load on the whole span.

Decreasing triangular load on the whole span.

Isosceles triangular load over the entire span.

Moment load at any point on the span.

General uniform loading.

Problem 813 | Continuous Beam by Three-Moment Equation
Problem 813
Determine the moment over the support R2 of the beam shown in Fig. P-813.

Solution 813

Where
Thus,

answer

Problem 814 | Continuous Beam by Three-Moment Equation

Problem 814
Find the moment at R2 of the continuous beam shown in Fig. P-814.

Solution 814

Where
Thus,

answer