Aluminum Extrusion Deflection Calculator

Aluminum Extrusion Deflection Formula:

\[ \delta = \frac{w L^4}{8 E I} \]

Distributed Load (w):

N/m

Length (L):

Modulus of Elasticity (E):

Moment of Inertia (I):

m^4

Deflection (δ):

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1. What is the Aluminum Extrusion Deflection Formula?

The Aluminum Extrusion Deflection formula calculates the maximum deflection of a simply supported beam under a uniformly distributed load. This is essential for structural engineering applications involving aluminum extrusions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the deflection formula:

\[ \delta = \frac{w L^4}{8 E I} \]

Where:

\( w \) — Distributed load (N/m)
\( L \) — Length of the beam (m)
\( E \) — Modulus of elasticity (Pa)
\( I \) — Moment of inertia (m^4)

Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum deflection at the center of a simply supported beam subjected to a uniformly distributed load.

3. Importance of Deflection Calculation

Details: Accurate deflection calculation is crucial for ensuring structural integrity, meeting design specifications, and preventing excessive deformation in aluminum extrusion applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter distributed load in N/m, length in meters, modulus of elasticity in Pa, and moment of inertia in m^4. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical modulus of elasticity for aluminum?
A: The modulus of elasticity for aluminum typically ranges from 68-79 GPa (68,000,000,000-79,000,000,000 Pa), depending on the specific alloy.

Q2: How do I find the moment of inertia for my extrusion?
A: The moment of inertia is a geometric property that depends on the cross-sectional shape. Manufacturers typically provide this value in their technical specifications.

Q3: What are acceptable deflection limits?
A: Acceptable deflection limits vary by application, but a common rule of thumb is to limit deflection to L/360 for floors and L/240 for roofs under live loads.

Q4: Does this formula work for other materials?
A: Yes, this formula works for any homogeneous, isotropic material behaving elastically, though the modulus of elasticity value will differ.

Q5: What if my load is not uniformly distributed?
A: This calculator is specifically for uniformly distributed loads. For point loads or other load configurations, different formulas must be used.