DEFLECTIONS OF BEAMS AND FRAMES

INTRODUCTION : When a structure is loaded, its stressed elements deform. In a

truss, bars in tension elongate and bars in compression shorten. Beams bend. As
this deformation occur, the structure changes shape and points on the structure
displace. Although these deflections are normally small, as a part of the total
design the engineer must verify that these deflections are within the limits
specified by the governing design code to ensure that the structure is
serviceable. Large deflections cause cracking of non structural elements such as
plaster ceiling, tile walls or brittle pipes. Since the magnitude of deflections is
also a measure of a member’s stiffness, limiting deflections also ensures that
excessive vibrations of building floors.

In this chapter we consider several methods of computing deflections and slopes at

points along the axis of beams and frames. These methods are based on the
differential equation of the elastic curve of a beam. This equation relates
curvature at a point along beam’s longitudinal axis to the bending moment at that
point and the properties of the cross section and the material. If the elastic
curve seems difficult to establish, it is suggested that the moment diagram for
the beam or frame be drawn first. A positive moment tends to bend a beam
concave upward. Likewise a negative moment bend the beam concave downward.
Therefore if the moment diagram is known, it will be easy to construct the elastic curve. In particular, there must be
an inflection point at the point where the curve changes from concave down to concave up, since this is a zero moment.

A
B B
A
∆=0 ∆=0 ∆=0 ∆≠0
θ ≠0 θ ≠0 θ =0 θ ≠0

SCHEMATICALLY
Moment
Diagrams

Elastic Curves

Inflection point
Inflection point
 DOUBLE INTEGRATION METHOD

The double integration method is a procedure to establish the equations for slope and deflection at points along
the elastic curve of a loaded beam. The equations are derived by integrating the differential equation of the
elastic curve twice. The method assumes that all deformations are produced by moment.

dy
GEOMETRY OF CURVES The slope of the curve at point A = tan θ
dx

If the angles are small, the dy

=θ
slope can be written dx
Elastic
From the geometry of
curve ρ .dθ = ds
y triangular segment ABO

A B 1 dθ
Dividing each side by ds = =ψ
ρ ds
x
x
dx dΘ/ds represents the change in slope per unit length
of distance along the curve, is called curvature and
denoted by symbol Ψ. Since slopes are small in
O actual beams ds=dx we can express the curvature,
Line tangent at B
dθ dθ 1
ρ ψ= =
dx ρ

B dθ Differentiating both sides of the second equation

ds
θ
A dθ d 2 y
=
Line tangent at A dx dx 2
 Relationship between bending moment and curvature for 1dθ d 2 y M
pure bending remains valid for general transverse loadings. ψ = = = =
ρ dx dx 2
EI

Example : For the cantilever beam in figure establish the equations for slope and deflection by the double integration
method. Also determine the magnitude of the slope ΘB and deflection ∆B at the tip of the cantilever. EI is constant.
y P
A M = − P (L − x)
B
x d2y M − P (L − x)
= =
dx 2 EI EI
dy − PLx Px 2
= + + C1
dx EI 2 EI
x L-x
− PLx 2 Px 3
y = + + C1x + C 2
2 EI 6 EI

Boundary conditions when ... x = 0 ... y = 0 ... then ... C 2 = 0 dy − PLx Px 2

dy
θ= = +
when ... x = 0 ... = 0 ... then ... C 1 = 0 dx EI 2 EI
dx
− PLx 2
Px 3
y= +
2 EI 6 EI

− PL2
θB =
2 EI
− PL3
∆B =
3 EI
Example : Use the double integration method, establish the equations for slope and deflection for the uniformly loaded
beam in figure. Evaluate the deflection at mid-span and the slope at support A. EI is constant.

y
q qLx qx 2
M = −
B 2 2
A x
dx C d 2 y qLx qx 2
-dy EI = −
dy dx 2 2 2
dx 2
qL/2 dy qLx qx 3
L EI = − + C1
dx 4 6
qLx 3 qx 4
EIy = − + C1 x + C 2
12 24
Boundary ...Conditions
x = 0 ... y = 0 ... → C 2 = 0
qL 4 qL 4 qL 3
x = L ... y = 0 ... → 0 = − + C 1 L ... ⇒ C 1 = −
12 24 24
2 3 3
dy qLx qx qL
θ = = − −
dx 4 EI 6 EI 24 EI
3 4
qLx qx qL 3 x
y= − −
12 EI 24 EI 24 EI

5 qL 4
Deflection at mid-span substitute x=L/2
y=
384 EI
and the slope at A substitute x=0 − qL 3
θA =
24 EI
 MOMENT-AREA METHOD
There are two moment-area theorems. These theorems were developed by Otto Mohr and later stated formally
by Charles E. Greene in 1872. These theorems provide a semi-graphical technique for determining the slope of
the elastic curve and its deflection due to bending. They are particularly advantageous when used to solve
problems involving beams especially those subjected to serious of concentrated loadings or having segments with
different moments of inertia. The first theorem is used to calculate a change in slope between two points on
the elastic curve. The second theorem is used to compute the vertical distance (called a tangential deviation)
between a point on the elastic curve and a line tangent to the elastic curve at a second point. These quantities
are illustrated in the following figure.

Elastic curve

B
A θA θB
tBA ∆θAB Tangent at A

Derivation of the moment-area theorems : The It states that the change in slope of the tangents on
relation between slope and moment and bending either side of the element dx is equal to the area
stiffness EI is under the M/EI diagram. Integrating from point A on
the elastic curve to point B we have,
dθ M
=
dx EI B
M
dθ =
M
dx
∆ θ AB = ∫ EI
dx
EI A
The ordinates of the moment curve must be divided by the bending stiffness EI to produce M/EI curve. The last
equation forms the basis for the first moment-area theorem.

The change in slope between any two points on a continuous elastic curve is equal to the area
under the M/EI curve between these points.

The tangential deviation dt can be expressed by

dt = dθ .x

A B
Substitute dΘ in the equation,
x
M
M/EI dt = ( dx).x
diag. EI
To evaluate tBA we must sum all
dx increments of dt by integrating the
contribution of all the infinitesimal
Tangent at B segment between points A and B.
A dθ B
Elastic
dt
B B
curves dθ t BA = ∫ dt = ∫
M .x
dx
x EI
dx A A

B Remembering that the quantity

Mdx/EI represents an infinitesimal
A
tBA ∆θAB area under the M/EI diagram and that
x is the distance from the area to point
B, we can interpret the integral as the
moment about point B of the area
under the M/EI diagram between
Tangent at A
points A and B
 This result constitutes the second moment-area theorem.

The tangential deviation at a point B on a continuous elastic curve from a tangent drawn to the elastic
curve at a second point A is equal to the moment about B of the area under the M/EI diagram between
the two points.

Example : Compute the slope and deflection at the tip of the cantilever beam. EI is constant.

y P Tangent at A is always horizontal.

A C B θ B = θ A + ∆θ AB = ∆θ AB
x

t BA = vB 1  − PL  − PL2 − PL2
∆θ AB = L = ⇒ θ AB =
2  EI  2 EI 2 EI
The slope at mid-point :
L
1  − PL − PL  L − 3PL2
∆θ AC =  +  =
2  EI 2 EI  2 8 EI
− PL
2 − 3PL2
EI x= L θ AC =
3 8 EI
1 − PL 2 L − PL3
M/EI DIAGRAM t BA = vB = L =
2 EI 3 3EI
Minus sign indicates that the tangent lies above elastic
curve
Example : Determine the deflection at points B and C of the beam shown below. Values for the moment of inertia of
each segment are IAB= 8.106 mm4 , and IBC= 4.106 mm4 . Take E= 200 GPa,

500 N.m
A By inspection the moment diagram for the beam is a rectangle. If we
B construct the M/EI diagram relative to IBC . The couple causes the beam
C to deflect concave up. We are required to find the vertical
2EI EI
displacements at B and C. These displacements can be related directly to
4m the deviations between the tangents.
3

250 2000
250 500 ∆ B = t BA = *4*2 = =
EI BC EI BC EI BC EI BC
A B C
2000
M/EI = 0.0025m
diagram tan C 200.109 * 4.10 −6
C

250 500
A B ∆ C = tCA ∆ C = tCA = * 4*5 + * 3 *1.5 =
EI BC EI BC
∆ B = t BA 7250
= 0.00906m = 9.06mm
EI BC

Since both answers are positive, they indicate that points B

and C lie above the tangent at A.
 Example : Determine the slope at point C of the beam. EI is constant.

8 kN
A C B
θ C = θ A − ∆θ AC
t BA
2 4m 2 θC = − ∆θ AC
L
12/EI t BA
M/EI θC = − ∆θ AC
DIAGRAM 4/EI
L
2x 1 4  4
∆θ AC =  * 2  =
x 2  EI  EI
C B
1  12  1  12  2 160
A t BA =  * 6  * 4 +  * 2  * 2 * =
2  EI  2  EI  3 EI
θA
160 4 16 20
∆' D
θC = − = ............θ A =
8EI EI EI EI
t DA
t BA Location of maximum deflection occurs at the point where the
slope of the beam is zero. So, the change in slope must be ΘA,
between the support and the point of the max. deflection. let the
base of the triangle be x
Horizontal 20 x 2
tangent θA = = ⇒ x = 2 5 = 4.47m
EI EI
∆ ' t BA 3
= → ∆ ' = t BA
20 1 40 5 6 8 4
t DA = * *2 5 = 3 160 40 5 90.186
EI 3 3EI ∆ max = ∆ '−t DA = − =
4 EI 3EI EI
 Example : Determine the deflection at point C of the beam. E= 200 GPa, I=250 10-6 m4

6 kN/m ∆ ' t BA
A B = → ∆ ' = 2t BA
C 16 8
∆ C = tCA − ∆ ' = tCA − 2t BA
8m 8m

1  − 192  1  1 − 192  3 
tCA =  * 8  8 + * 8  +  * 8 *  * 8 
- 2  EI  3  3 EI  4 
− 11264
=
192/EI EI
1  − 192  1  − 2048
t BA =  * 8  8 *  =
2  EI  3  EI
∆' − 11264  − 2048  − 7168
∆C = − 2* =
tBA EI  EI  EI
A B
− 7168 .kNm 3
∆C = = −0.143 m.
200 *10 6.kN / m 2 .250 *10 − 6
∆C tCA
= 143 mm

C
 CONJUGATE BEAM METHOD
The method was first presented by Otto Mohr in 1860. This method relies only the principles of statics and
hence its application will be more familiar. The basis for the method comes from the similarity between both

dQ dM d 2M
= −q = −Q or........ 2 = q
dx dx dx
which relate a beam’s internal shear and moment to its applied loading, and

dθ M d2y M
= 2
=
dx EI dx EI
which relate the slope and deflection of its elastic curve to the internal moment divided by EI. Or integrating

These equations indicate that the shear in a beam

Q= ∫ (− q )dx M = − ∫ ∫ (− q )dx can be obtained by integrating the load once and the
moment by integrating the load twice. Since the
M  M  curvature of a beam is proportional to the bending
θ = ∫ dx y= ∫ ∫  EI dx moment, slope and deflection of the beam can be
 EI  obtained by successively integrating the moment.

We want to replace the integration indicated in the equations by drawing the shear and bending moment diagrams. To
do this we will consider a beam having the same length as the real beam, bot referred to here as the conjugate beam.
It is loaded with the M/EI diagram of the real beam. Shear and moment diagrams of the conjugate beam represent
one and two integrations, respectively of the M/EI diagram of the real beam. We thus conclude that shear and
moment diagrams of the conjugate beam represent the slope and deflection of the real beam. Now we can therefore
state two theorems related to conjugate beam, namely
Theorem 1: The slope at a point in the real beam is equal to the shear at the corresponding point in the conjugate
beam.
Theorem 2: The displacement at a point in the real beam is equal to the moment at the corresponding point in the
conjugate beam.
Since each of the previous equations requires integration it is important that the proper boundary conditions be used
when they are applied.

REAL BEAM CONJUGATE BEAM

pin Q
θ pin
M =0
∆=0

θ Q roller
roller
∆=0 M =0

θ =0 Q=0
fixed free
∆=0 M =0

θ Q fixed
free
∆ M

θ
Internal pin Q hinge
∆=0
M =0

θ Internal Q hinge
∆=0 roller
M =0

θ Q Internal
∆ hinge roller
M
 REAL BEAM CONJUGATE BEAM

If we treat positive values

of the M/EI diagram
applied to the beam as a
distributed load acting
upward and negative values
of M/EI as a downward
load, positive shear denotes
a negative slope and a
negative shear a positive
slope. Further negative
values of moment indicate a
downward deflection and
positive values of moment
an upward deflection.

As a rule, neglecting axial force, statically determinate real beams have statically indeterminate conjugate beams;
and statically indeterminate real beams, as in the last figure above become unstable conjugate beams. Although this
occurs, the M/EI loading will provide the necessary “equilibrium” to hold the conjugate beam stable.
Example : Determine the slope and deflection of point B of the steel beam shown in figure. The reactions are given in
the figure. Take E=200 GPa, I=333 106 mm4

22 kN 22 kN

Real
Beam
M/EI diagram is negative, so the distributed load acts
A B
4.6 m 4.6 m downward
232.76
− + QB = 0
EI
101.2 kNm
232.76 232.76
Conjugate
QB = =
EI 200.106 * 333.10−6
101.2 Beam
EI QB = 0.00349
θ B = −0.00349rad
7.667 m MB

QB 232 . 76
232.76 MB + * 7 . 667 = 0
EI
EI
− 1784 . 5 − 1784 . 5
M B = ∆B = = =
EI 200 . 10 6 * 333 . 10 − 6
∆ B = − 0 . 0268 m

Positive shear indicates negative slope, and the negative moment of the beam indicates downward displacement.
Example : Determine the maximum deflection of the steel beam shown below. Reactions are given. I= 60.106 mm4

8 kN The distributed load acts upward, since

Real M/EI diagram is positive. External
A B Beam reactions are shown on the free body
diagram. Maximum deflection of the real
beam occurs at the point where the slope
9m 3m of the beam is zero. This corresponds to
2 kN the same point in the conjugate beam
where the shear is zero. Assumong this
6 kN
18 point acts within the region 0<x<9 m. from
A, we can isolate the section below,
EI
B Conjugate
18  x  2 x
A Beam  =
EI  9  EI
M
81
27 Q
EI 45 x
EI
EI Internal reactions

45 63
External reactions ∑ Fy = 0
EI EI − 45 1  2x 
+  x = 0
EI 2  EI 
x = 6 . 71 m → 0 ≤ x ≤ 9m
∑ M = 0
45 1  2 * 6 . 71  6 . 71
* 6 . 71 −  * 6 . 71  * + M = 0
EI 2  EI  3
− 201 . 2 − 201 . 2
∆ max = M = = = − 0 . 0168 m
EI 200 . 10 6 * 60 . 10 − 6
 Example: Determine the displacement of the pin at B and the slope of the each beam segment connected to the pin
for the beam shown in the figure. E=200 GPa I=135.106 mm4

A 35 kN M= 120 kNm M/EI diagram has been drawn in parts using the
principle of superposition. Notice that negative
C regions of this diagram develop a downward
Real
distributed load and the positive regions have a
B Beam
distributed load that acts upward.
3.60 3.60 4.60

To determine ΘBr the conjugate beam is

sectioned just to the right of B and shear force
187.33 Conjugate Beam is computed
EI B
C
A
593.74
126 M
Q EI
EI 120
676.17 EI 276
EI 4.8 m 593.74
EI
EI
∑F y =0
B
C 276 593 . 74
A − Q Br − + =0
EI EI
6m 3.067 317 . 74 317 . 74
Q Br = =
1.533 m EI 200 . 10 6 * 135 . 10 − 6
226.8 767.11 Q Br = 0 . 011768
276 θ Br = − 0 . 011768 rad
EI EI EI
The internal moment at B yields the displacement of the pin 593.74
M EI
∑ M = 0 Q
276 593 . 74
M + * 3 . 076 − * 4 . 60 = 0
B
EI EI 276
1884 . 8 1884 . 8 EI
∆ B = M B = = −6
= 0 . 070 m
EI 200 . 10 6 * 135 . 10

The slope ΘBl can be found from a section of beam just to the left of B thus

∑F y =0
593.74 767 . 11 276 593 . 74
M EI
− Q Bl −
EI
−
EI
+
EI
=0
Q 449 . 37 449 . 37
Q Bl = θ Bl = − =−
EI 200 . 10 6 * 135 . 10 − 6
276 Q Bl = − 0 . 01667
767.11
EI θ Bl = 0 . 01667 rad
EI
 EXTERNAL WORK AND STRAIN ENERGY
Most energy methods are based on the conservation of the energy which states that work done by all the
external forces acting on a structure, W, is transformed into internal work or strain energy U, which is
developed when the structure deforms. If the material’s elastic limit is not exceeded, the elastic strain energy
will return the structure to its undeformed state when the loads are removed.

W=U
External work done by a force : When a force F undergoes a
displacement dx in the same direction as the force, the work done is,
dW = F .dx
x
If the total displacement is x, the work becomes W = ∫ F .dx
0

P
x ∆
∆ P P∆
W = ∫ F .dx =
∆ ∫ x .dx =
2
F P
0 0

F= x
∆
Represents the triangular
area
x
∆
Suppose that P is already applied to the bar and that P F′
another force F’ is now applied, so the bar deflects
further by an amount ∆’, the work done by P (not F’) when ∆
the bar undergoes the further deflection ∆’ is then

W ′ = P.∆′ The work of F’

F′
P does not change its magnitude. P
Work is simply the force magnitude
(P) times the displacement (∆’) x
∆ ∆′
External work done by a moment: The work of a moment is defined by the product
of the magnitude of the moment and the angle dΘ through which it rotates. dW = M .dθ
θ
If the total angle of rotation is Θ radians, the work becomes
As in the case of force, if the moment is applied to a structure gradually,
W = ∫ M .dθ
from zero to M, the work is then 0
1
W = Mθ
2

However if the moment is already applied to the structure and other loadings further distort the structure by an
amount Θ’ , then the M rotates Θ’ , and the work is

W ′ = M .θ ′
Strain Energy due to an axial force
σ = E .ε
N ∆
= E
A, E N A
NL
L
∆ =
L ∆ EA
1 N 2L
U = N .∆ =
2 2 EA

Strain Energy due to the moment Tangent to

right end

dθ

x dx L
M M

M
dθ = dx
EI dθ
1 M 2 .dx
dU = M .dθ = dx
2 2 EI
L
M2
U =∫ dx The strain energy for the beam is
determined by integrating this result Tangent to
0
2 EI over the beams entire length left end
Principle of work and energy

Application of this method is limited to only a few select problems. It will be noted that only one load may be applied
to the structure and only the displacement under the load can be obtained.

Example: Using principle of work and energy, determine the deflection at the tip of the cantilever beam.

P M ( x) = P ( x − L)
W =U
L L
1 M2 P2
P .∆ = ∫ dx = ∫ (x − L)
2
dx
EI , L ∆ 2 0
2 EI 2 EI 0

P  L3 L3 
∆=  −2 + L3 
PL - EI  3 2 
PL 3
∆=
3 EI

HOMEWORK P
EI , L

∆ = .... ?
If we take a deformable structure, and apply a series of loads to it, it will cause internal loads and internal displacements

P1 P2
N2, dL2 Internal forces
And
dL 1 Internal displacements
N
3,
dL
N1 3

∆
External Forces Equilibrium Equations Internal Forces

External Displacements Compatibility Equations internal Displacements

External and internal

P forces

M
EI , L
∆ External and internal
dθ
deflections
 Principle of work and energy states
∑ P .∆ = ∑ N .∆L
i i j j

∑ P .∆ = ∫ M .dθ
i i

Work of external forces Work of internal forces

Virtual work method (Unit Load Method)

Virtual work is a procedure for computing a single component of deflection at any point on a structure. The method
permits the designer to include in deflection computations the influence of support settlements, temperature change,
and fabrication errors. To compute a component of deflection by the method of virtual work, the designer applies a
unit force to the structure at the point and in the direction of the desired displacement. This force is often called a
dummy load, the displacement it will undergo is produced by other effects. These other effects include the real loads,
temperature change, support settlement and so forth. In other words, the deflected shape due to the real forces is
assumed to be the virtual deflected shape of the dummy structure, and the principle of work and energy is applied.

Application of unit force method to trusses

Real
Virtual N .L
forces displacements
∆L = Due to real loads
EA
∆ L = α .∆ T .L Due to temperature change

1 .∆ = ∑ N j .∆ L j ∆L Given fabrication error

 Example: Determine the horizontal and vertical B
displacement at point C. All members have a
225kN
cross-sectional area of 25.10-4 m2 and a modulus − 62.5
of elasticity of 200 GPa. 3.m
C
B 37.5
B
1.kN 3.m − 250
− 187.5
0.864 0.625
A 200 D
C C 1.kN
− 0 .5 − 0.375 4.m 4.m
0 0
− 0.834 0.625 150kN
A 0 D A 0
D

MEMBER L (m) N (kN) Nv Nh N.Nv.L N.Nh.L

AB 6 37,5 -0,5 -0,375 -112,5 -84,375
BC 5 -62,5 0,834 0,625 -260,625 -195,313
CA 5 -187,5 -0,834 0,625 781,875 -585,938
CD 5 -250 0 0 0 0
DA 8 200 0 0 0 0

SUM 408,75 -865,625

N .Nv.L 408.75
∆Vc = ∑ = = 0.0008175m The negative sign indicates
EA 200.10 6 * 0.0025 that the horizontal
N .Nh.L − 865.625 displacement is to the left,
∆hc = ∑ = = −0.00173m not to the right as assumed
EA 200.106 * 0.0025
Example: The truss shown below is distorted during fabrication because member BC is 12.7 mm short. What
vertical deflection is introduced at point E because of this misfit.

B − 12.7 mm C

6.m 0 0 0 0
A D
0 E 0
9 9.m

− 0.75

− 0.625 0.625 − 0.625 1 .∆VE = ∑ N j .∆ L j =

0.625
− 0 .75 * ( − 12 .7 mm ) = 9 .525 mm
0.375 0.375
1.kN
Example: Determine the vertical displacement that occurs at point B as a result temperature change of +300 C in
members AD and DC. The coefficient of thermal expansion is 11.7*10-6 1/0C.

D
∆LAD = ∆LDC = 11.7 *10 −6 * 30 * 6.25
2.194 = 2.194 *10 −3 m = 2.194mm
5m
2.194
0
D
A 0 0 C
B
3.75m 3.75m − 0.625 − 0.625
1

A 0.375 0.375 C
MEMBER dL Nv Nv.dL B
AD 2,194 -0,625 -1,371
DC 2,194 -0,625 -1,371
1.kN
DB 0 1 0
AB 0 0,375 0
BC 0 0,375 0

-2,743 1 .∆VB = ∑N j .∆ L j = − 2 .74 mm

Example: Determine the change in member length for member BD of the truss so that, when combined with the
prescribed loading, will produce a net vertical displacement of zero at point D. E= 200 GPa.

B B
20.kN 20.kN
2.m
(1000.mm 2 ) 2
(1000.mm ) 10 6 − 16.97
2
(500.mm )

D 1.m D
A
(800mm 2 )
A − 8.25
(800mm 2 ) − 8.944
12.kN C 1.m 12.kN C
4.m 4.m 4 20
16

B
Member L(m) N Nv EA N.Nv.L/EA
AB 5 10 -1,25 200000 -0,0003124
− 1.25 − 1.414 AD 4,125 -8,25 1,031 160000 -0,0002193
1.75 BC 5,657 -16,97 -1,414 200000 0,0006787
BD 2 6 1,75 100000 0,00021
D DC 4,472 -8,944 1,118 160000 -0,0002795
A 1.031
1.kN 1.118
C sum= 7,744E-05
 N .Nv.L We want to shorten the member so that upward
1.∆VD = ∑ = 0.00007744m deflection at point D be 0.07744 mm.
EA
0.07744mm

− 1.75 ∆L
1 .∆ = ∑N j .∆ L j
1 * 0 .07744 = ( − 1 .75 ) * ∆ L
∆ L = − 0 .0443 mm
1kN

Application of unit force method to beams and frames

Real L
Virtual
displacements M q . M p dx
∫
forces
∆ =
L 0
EI
1 .∆ = ∫M
0
q .d θ
Integral of the product of moment
functions is needed. Prepare an
M p .dx integral table to simplify the calculations
dθ = Due to real loading
EA
 l
dx
∆ = ∫
0
f (x)F (x)
EI
f ( x ) : i .... const .
L .i . k
i F ( x ) : k ... const . → ∆ =
X k
EI
L L

i
f (x) : x ..... linear
L
i k k L .i . k
X F (x) : x .... linear → ∆ =
L 3 EI
L L

i
f (x) : i − x
L
X k
i k L .i . k
F (x) : x ....... → ∆ =
L L L 6 EI

Second degree curve horizontal i

tangent at left end f (x) : x
L
k L .i . k
k F ( x ) : 2 x 2 ..... → ∆ =
i X L 4 EI
L L
Example: Determine the rotation at A and B to an applied moment M on the beam as shown.
M 1
1
A
B B
EI A
L Mq Mq
1

Mp M 1
L
M p .M q L L ML
1*θ A = ∫ dx = i.k = M .1 =
L EI 6 EI 6 EI 6 EI
M q . M p dx 0

∆ = ∫
L
M p .M q L L ML
1*θ B = ∫ dx = i.k = M .1 =
0
EI 0
EI 3EI 3EI 3EI

Example: What is the vertical deflection of the free end of the cantilever beam.

P 1
C B A

L/2 L/2

-PL/2 Mp -L
Mq
L
M p .M q L L / 2 PL  L 5 PL 3
∆A = ∫
0
EI
dx =
6 EI
i.( 2 k1 + k 2 ) =
6 EI 2 
 2L +  =
2  48 EI
Example: Determine both the vertical and the horizontal deflection at A for the frame shown. E=200 GPa I=200 106 mm4

50 kN
1
1

A B C - 100 - 4

4
5m 100 -
-
Mp Mq Mq -
D
5
2m 2m

L
M p .M q L L .i.k
∆ = ∫ dx = k .( i1 + 2 i 2 ) + =
v
A
0
EI 6 EI EI
1 2  2333 .33
 100 * ( 2 + 8 ) + 5 * 100 * 4  = = 0 . 058 m
EI  6  EI

L
M p .M q L 1 5 1250
∆ = ∫ dx = i.k = . 100 .5 = = 0 .031 m
h
A
0
EI 2 EI EI 2 EI
 Deflection of structures consisting of flexural members and axially loaded members
Example: Find the horizontal displacement at C. E=200 GPa I=150.106 mm4 A=50 mm2

Cable 4 m
480
20 kN/m 80 kN
40 kN
+
120
B C
+ -
3m
360 0.5
A 40 Mp 3 +
1
6m
40 +

EI = 200 .10 6 * 150 .10 −6 = 30000 .kNm 2 1 Mq

EA = 200 .10 6 * 50 .10 − 6 = 10000 .kN
0.5

The internal work for the given structure consists of two parts : the work due to bending of the frame and the
work due to axial deformation of the cable.

M p .M q N p . N q .L 1 3 6 6  80 * 0 .5 * 4
∆hc = ∫ EI
dx +
EA
=  * 120 * 3 + * 480 * 3 − * 360 * 3  +
EI  3 3 4  EA
1620 160
= + = 0 . 070 m = 70 mm
30000 10000
 10 kN/m
What are the relative rotation and the vertical
A D displacement at C
B C

4m 1m 3m

60 kN
C D
A
What are the rotation and vertical displacement at D
B
2m 4m 2m
60 kN
C D
A
B
2m 4m 2m

tCA
tDA 80/EI
MAXWELL’S RECIPROCAL THEOREM
Let us consider the beam in the figure. Because of the load F1 the beam deflects an amount δ11F1 at point 1
and an amount δ21F1 at point 2.
Where δ11 and δ21 are the deflections at points
1 and 2 due to a unit load at point 1
F1
1 2
δij deflection at point i due to a unit load at j

i place of deflection
δ11 F1 δ 21 F1 j place of unit load

Now we w’ll formulate an expression for the

work due to F1 and F2
1 F2 2 Apply the forces F1 and F2 simultaneously the
resulting work can be written

δ12 F2 δ 22 F2 W= 1
(F1∆1 + F2 ∆ 2 )
2

W = 1
(F1 (δ11 F1 + δ12 F2 ) + F2 (δ 21 F1 + δ 22 F2 ))
F1 F2 2
1 2
W= 1
2
(δ F + (δ12 + δ 21 )F1 F2 + δ 22 F22
11 1
2
)
∆1 ∆2

∆1 = δ11 F1 + δ12 F2 ∆ 2 = δ 21 F1 + δ 22 F2
 F1
If we apply F1 first the amount of work performed is 1 2

W 1 = 12 F1.δ11 F1 = 12 δ11 F12 δ11 F1

Next we apply F2 to the beam on which F1 is already
acting. The additional work resulting from the
application of F2 F1 F2 2
1
W 2 = F1 (δ12 F2 ) + 12 F2 (δ 22 F2 )
δ12 F2 δ 22 F2

(δ )
½ factor is absent on the first term because F1
remains constant at its full value during the entire
displacement. The total work due to F1 and F2 .
W= 1
2 F
11 1
2
+ δ 22 2 + δ 12 F1 F2
F 2

In a linear system, the work performed by two forces is independent of the order in which the forces
are applied. Hence the two works must be equal.

1
2 (δ F
11 1
2
+ (δ 12 + δ 21 )F F
1 2 + δ F
22 2
2
) = 1
2
(δ F
11 1
2
+ δ F 2
)
22 2 + δ 12 F1 F2

1
2
(δ12 + δ 21 ) = δ12
(δ12 + δ 21 ) = 2δ12 δ12 = δ 21
This relationship is known as Maxwell’ s reciprocal theorem
 1 1
1 2 1 2

δ 21 δ12
δ 21 = δ12
1 1
1 2 1
2

θ 21 δ12
θ 21 = δ12
1 1
2 1
1 2
θ 21 θ12

θ 21 = θ12
Consider two different loading on a linear elastic structure. The virtual work done by the forces of the first system
acting through the displacements of the second system is equal to the virtual work done by the forces of the second
system acting through the corresponding displacements of the first system. .
 CASTIGLIANO’S FIRST THEOREM

F1 F2 The work done by the forces on the

1 2 deflections of the beam is

W= 1
2 (δ F
11 1
2
+ 2δ F F
12 1 2 + δ F
22 2
2
)
∆1 = δ11 F1 + δ12 F2 ∆ 2 = δ 21 F1 + δ 22 F2
∂W
Taking the derivative of work with respect to F1, one obtain = δ 11 F1 + δ 12 F 2 = ∆ 1
∂ F1
Since the strain energy U stored in a deformed structure is equal to the work performed by the external loads

∂U The partial derivative of the strain energy in a structure with respect to one of the
= ∆i external loads acting on the structure is equal to the displacement at that force in
∂ Pi the direction of the force. This relation is known as Castigliano’s theorem

F1 F2 ∂U ∂U
= 0 = 0
∂ R1 ∂R2

R1 This theorem can be used to analyze the

R2 redundant structures
 F1 F2
∂U
= 0
∂R
R
This method is called as the method of least work. Redundant must have a value that will make the strain
energy in the structure a minimum. The known values of the displacements at certain points can be used for
additional equations to the equations of equilibrium.

The strain energy for an axially loaded member The strain energy for a truss

N 2L N 2L
U =
2 AE
U = ∑ 2 AE

To find a joint displacement of a truss Castigliano’s theorem can be used

∂U  ∂N  L
δi =
∂ Pi
= ∑ N  
 ∂ Pi  AE

δI : joint displacement in the direction of the external force Pi

To take the partial derivative, force
N : axial force in member Pi must be replaced by a variable
force
E : Modulus of elasticity A: Cross sectional area
 Example: Determine the vertical displacement of joint C of the truss shown in the figure. The cross
sectional area of each member is A= 400 mm2 and E= 200 GPa

C
4 kN A vertical force P is applied to do truss at joint C, since this
is where the vertical displacement is to be determined.

Since P does not actually exist as a real load on the truss. We

require p=0 in the table.
3m

A B
Member N ∂Ν/∂P N (P=0) L (m) N.∂Ν/∂P.L

AB 0.667P+2 0.677 2 8 10.67

4m 4m
AC -0.833P+2.5 -0.833 2.5 5 -10.41

BC -0.833P-2.5 -0.833 -2.5 5 10.41

P

10.67 kN.m

C 4 kN
.5 0, ∂N L 10.67 10.67
-2
33
P 83
3P δ cv = ∑ N = = −6
=
0,
8 +2
.5
∂P AE AE 400 *10 * 200 *10 6

4 kN A 0,667P+2
B 0.000133 m = 0.133mm

0.5P-1.5 0.5P+1.5
Example: Determine the vertical displacement of joint C of the truss shown in the figure. Assume that A=325mm2 ,
E=200 GPa .
F E The 20 kN force at C is replaced with a variable force P at
joint C

F -(13.333+0.333P)
3m E
)
A 7 1P

13.333+0.333P
D .4 1P

-(
B C +0 7

9.
.4
56

4
0

29
20 kN 20 kN -
.8 29

+0
1 8 4 P
-( 9.

.9
43
3m

P)
3m 3m 13.333+0.333P 6.667+0.667P
A D
B 6.667+0.667P C

(13.333+0.333P)
20 P (6.667+0.667P)

Member N ∂N/∂P N (P=20) L N.∂N/∂P.L

AB 13.333+0.333P 0.333 20 3 19.98
∂N L 369.56
BC 6.667+0.667P 0.667 20 3 40.02 δ cv = ∑ N = =
CD 6.667+0.667P 0.667 20 3 40.02 ∂P AE AE
DE -9.429-0.943P -0.943 -28.289 4.24 113.11
EF -13.333-0.333P -0.333 -20 3 19.98
369.56
FA -18.856-0.471P -0.471 -28.276 4.24 56.47
−6 6
=
BF 13.333+0.333P 0.333 20 3 19.98 325 *10 * 200 *10
BE 9.429-0.471P -0.471 0 4.24 0
CE P 1 20 3 60

Sum 369.56 0.005685 m = 5.685mm

find the horizontal displacement of point D
F 20
E

28
. 28 20 0 .2
28 P 8

D
A
P C P
20+P B 20+P 20+P

20 20 20
20

Membe N N.∂N/∂P.
r N ∂N/∂P (P=20) L L
AB 20+P 1 20 3 60

∂N L 180
δ ch = ∑ N
BC 20+P 1 20 3 60
CD 20+P 1 20 3 60 = =
DE -28.28 0 -28.28 4.24 0
∂P AE AE
EF -20 0 -20 3 0
FA -28.28 0 -28.28 4.24 0
180
BF 20 0 20 3 0
−6 6
=
BE 0 0 0 4.24 0 325 *10 * 200 *10
CE 20 0 20 3 0

Sum 180 0.002769 m = 2.77 mm

 CASTIGLIANO’S THEOREM FOR BEAMS AND FRAMES

M2
The strain energy for beam or frame member is given by Uı = ∫ dx
2 EI
Substituting this equation into the Castigliano’s first theorem
∂U ı ∂ M2
l
 ∂M  dx
∂Pı ∂P ∫ 2 EI ∫0  ∂Pı
∆ı = = dx = M 
 EI
∆ = External displacement
P= External force applied to the beam or frame in the direction of the desired displacement
M= Internal moment in the beam or frame, expressed as function of x and caused by both the force P and the real loads.
E= Modulus of elasticity
I= Moment of inertia of cross sectional area computed about the neutral axis.

If the slope Θ at a point is to be determined, the partial derivative of the internal moment M with respect to an
external couple moment M’ acting at the point must be computed.
l
 ∂M  dx
θ = ∫M 
0  ∂M ′  EI
The above equations are similar to those used for the method of virtual work except the partial derivatives replace
moments due to unit loads like the case of trusses, slightly more calculations is generally required to determine the
partial derivatives and apply Castigliano’s theorem rather than use the method of virtual force method.
 Example : determine the displacement of point B of the beam shown in figure. E=200 GPa I=500*106 mm4

A 12 kN/m A vertical force P is placed on the beam at B

B
MA P
12 kN/m

10 m B

RA 10 m
The moment at an arbitrary point on the beam
and its derivative
M = −6 x 2 + ( P + 120) x − (10 P + 600) ∑M A =0
∂M M A = 10 P + 600
= x − 10
∂P RA = P + 120

Setting P=0 yields Castigliano’s theorem

M = −6 x 2 + 120 x − 600
10
∂M dx
= ∫ (− 6 x 2 + 120 x − 600)( x − 10 )
∂M dx
= x − 10 δB = ∫ M
∂P ∂P EI 0 EI

10
1 6 4 15000
= − x + 60 x 3 − 900 x 2 + 6000 x =
EI 4 0 EI

15000
= = 0.15m = 150mm
500 *10 −6 * 200 *106
 Example : determine the vertical displacement of point C of the beam. Take E=200 GPa I=150*106 mm2
y 20 kN
8 kN/m A vertical force P is applied at point C. Later this
force will be set equal to a fixed value of 20 kN.
A B x
C y P
4m 4m M 8 kN/m M
A B x
x C
x
∂M
0 < x < 4m.....M = (24 + 0.5P ) x − 4 x 2 ....... = 0.5 x........M = 34 x − 4 x 2 4m 4m
∂P
∂M 8+0.5P
4 < x < 8m.....M = 64 + 4 P − (8 + 0.5P) x... = 4 − 0.5 x...M = 144 − 18 x 24+0.5P
∂P

4 8
x dx dx
δ ver
c = ∫ (34 x − 4 x ) 2
+ ∫ (144 − 18 x)(4 − 0.5 x)
0
2 EI 4 EI
4
1 34 3 1 8 426.67
= x − x4 + 576 x − 72 x 2 + 3 x 3 =
2 EI 3 0 EI 4 EI
426.67
= = 0.0142m = 14.2mm
200 *106 *150 *10 −6
 Example : determine the rotation at A and horizontal displacement at point D using Castigliano’s first theorem

10 kN
10 kN
5m 5m
20 kN 5m 20 kN
5m B C
C A variable couple
B
C is applied at
point A 8m
8m C A D
A D
20 kN
110 + C
10 210 + C
10
member.....BC
C 10 kN
0 < x < 5m............M = C + 160 − 11x − x C+160
10 M
member... AB ∂M x
= 1 − ........M [C = 0] = 160 − 11x
∂M ∂C 10 B
M = C + 20 x............. =1
∂C c
5 < x < 10m.........M = C + 160 − 11x − x − 10( x − 5)
x
M [C = 0] = 20 x.........M B = C + 160 10
∂M x
= 1 − .......M [C = 0] = 210 − 21x 110 + C
∂C 10
10

8 5 10
dx  x  dx  x  dx
θA = ∫
0
20 x
EI
+ ∫ (160
0
− 11 x ) 1 −


10  EI
+ ∫ (210 − 21 x ) 1 −
5 

10  EI
=

1   1 
640
+ 160 * 5 −
27
* 25 +
1 .1
* 125  +  210 * (10 − 5 ) −
42
(100 − 25 ) + 2 . 1 (100 * − 125 ) = 1235 . 83
EI EI  2 3  EI  2 3  EI
 Example : determine the reactions for the propped cantilever beam.
A P
B
M P M
MA
A C L/2 L/2
x B
R
x
Reaction at point C is taken as redundant
P-R
MA=PL/2-RL

L PL ∂M
0< x< ..... M = ( P − R ) x − + RL ......... = L−x
2 2 ∂R
L ∂M
< x < L..... M = R ( L − x )......... .......... ........ = L−x
2 ∂R
L
∂U ∂M dx
= ∫M =0
∂R 0 ∂R EI
L
L
2
PL dx dx
∫0 (( P − R ) x −
2
+ RL ) ( L − x )
EI ∫L
+ R ( L − x )( L − x )
EI
=0
2

5
R= P Homework, Take the moment at A as redundant force
16
 24 kN/m Using Castigliano’s theorem determine the horizontal reaction
at point E, and draw the shear force and bending moment
diagrams of the given frame.
C
EI 1.6 2m Symmetrical structure is subjected to a symmetrical
1. 6 EI
D loading so the vertical reactions at A and E will be the half
B
of the external load
sin θ = 0.3162
5m C
EI cos θ = 0.9488 EI N/ m
21 .6 k
R R k N/m
A E 7 .2
-5R
6m 6m EI
B 1. 6

-(45.533+0.9487R) -136.613+0.3162R
144 kN 144 kN

Free Body diagram of

member.... AB
left column, Write
Q N equilibrium equations ∂M
M M = − Rx........ = − x........M B = −5 R
to find M, N, and Q ∂R
at point B
member....BC
B M = (136.613 − 0.3162 R) x − 5 R − 10.8 x 2
M = −5 R
EI ∂M
N = −(45.53 + 0.9487 R) = −(0.3162 x + 5)
∂R
R Q = 0.3162 R − 136.613
A
 5 dx 
[ ]
6.32
∂U ∂M dx 1
144
= ∫M =0......2 R ∫ x 2 + ∫ − (0.3162 R − 136.613 )x − 5 R − 10.8 x (− 0 .3162 x −
2
5 )dx =0
∂R ∂R EI  0 EI 1.6 EI 0 
R = 38.4kN
 12.14 LOOK EACH MEMBER FROM THE
INSIDE OF THE FRAME.
TAKE THE ORIGIN AT LEFT END OF
124.47 +
+ - THE MEMBER

m
5.76 12.14
-
- +

38.4
38.4

124.47
38.4
SHEAR FORCE DIAGRAM 38.4

144 144

163.04

MOMENT
192 - 192
DIAGRAM IS
+ -
DRAWN ON +
TENSION - -
SIDE

166.47

BENDING MOMENT DIAGRAM (KNM)