The LVL Span Calculator assists users in determining the maximum span, maximum deflection, and bending stress of laminated veneer lumber beams based on beam type, dimensions, and load specifications.
Lvl Span Calculator
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How to Use the LVL Span Calculator
This guide provides a step-by-step approach to effectively using the LVL Span Calculator to determine key properties such as maximum span, maximum deflection, and bending stress for laminated veneer lumber beams under various conditions.
Step 1: Select the LVL Beam Type
Begin by selecting the type of LVL beam you are working with. You have two options:
- Single Beam: Choose this if you are calculating for a single-layer beam.
- Double Beam: Select this if you are calculating for a beam composed of two layers stacked together.
Step 2: Enter Beam Dimensions
Next, provide the dimensions of the beam:
- Beam Width (mm): Enter a value between 35 mm and 400 mm. Make sure it is an integer value, as the step increment is 1 mm.
- Beam Depth (mm): Enter a value between 100 mm and 1200 mm. Again, ensure it is an integer, keeping with the step increment of 1 mm.
Step 3: Select the Load Type
Select the type of load acting on the beam:
- Uniformly Distributed Load: For loads that are evenly spread over the entire beam length.
- Point Load: Choose this for loads concentrated at a single point along the beam.
Step 4: Enter the Load Value
In this step, input the load value applied to the beam in kilonewtons per meter (kN/m). The value must be within the range of 0.1 to 100 kN/m, with permissible increments of 0.1 kN/m for precise input.
Step 5: Calculate and Interpret Results
Upon entering all the necessary inputs, the calculator will automatically compute and display the results:
- Maximum Span: This value shows the longest distance the beam can span under the given load and conditions. It is displayed in meters to two decimal places.
- Maximum Deflection: This result indicates the beam’s bending in millimeters and is presented to one decimal place.
- Bending Stress: Calculated in megapascals (MPa), this value helps assess the beam’s structural integrity under bending forces. It is shown to two decimal places.
Using these steps, you can efficiently determine essential properties of LVL beams to aid in construction planning and safety assessments.