Reference: Mechanics of Materials, R.C.

Hibbeler, 8th Edition

Prepared By: M. Asad Warraich

Bending Deformation of a Straight

Member
Before deriving an equation, we will assume that our member is of symmetrical
cross-section throughout its length, and moment is applied at the longitudinal
axis.

Consider an undeformed bar having square cross section. Grid lines and
longitudinal lines have been marked on it. A bending moment is applied on its
longitudinal line due to which it tends to bend. Longitudinal lines become curved
and grid lines (Transverse lines) remain straight and rotate at an angle. Top
portion of the bar stretches (Tension) and bottom portion compresses
(Compression)

We assume following:

1. Longitudinal axis of the beam does not experience any change in its length
2. Cross-section of beam remains plane and perpendicular to longitudinal axis
3. Deformation of beam along its own axis is neglected
We take a small differential element from beam at a distance x along beam’s
length having thickness x.

Line segment x is located on neutral surface. Its length does not change whereas
line segment s that is located at distance y from neutral axis experiences a
change in length and becomes s’. Applying normal strain formula:

Before deformation, s = x. After deformation, x has a radius of curvature . As

 is angle between lines, therefore applying formula S = r

s = x

Similarly, s’ becomes:

s’= (y

Substituting s and s’ into following equation:

Above formula tells us that normal strain produced is dependent on distance y
and radius of curvature. It increases linearly across the cross-section of beam.
Maximum strain occurs at the maximum distance y = c from the center of cross-
section of beam.

maxc

Dividing  by max.

Flexure Formula
Before deriving an equation, we will assume that material is linear-elastic

As normal strain increases linearly across the cross-section and we have assumed
that material is linear-elastic, therefore we can apply Hooke’s Law



From Hooke’s Law, we can rearrange following formula:

A force of magnitude dF is supposed to act on the cross-section which causes
bending moment and ultimately a linear normal stress variation across the cross-
section. As we know that

F / A

We assume a small differential area dA over the cross-section. Hence, above

equation can be re-arranged as follows:

dF = dA

Stress produced by this force on the neutral axis would be zero so that:


Moment that will be produced by the force dF, located at distance y from netural
axis, is as follows:

dM = dF . y

We have already derived that dF is equal to:

Hence, moment dM produced can be rearranged as follows:

Integral y2 . dA gives moment of inertia of the beam. Hence, we can re-arrange

above equation as follows: