The in-plane strength properties of a composite material, axial and transverse tension and compression and in-plane shear, are usually the first to be considered in design. However, ...

Behold the beam, an amazing structural element that bends when loaded - but one that must not bend too much. A fallen tree spanning the banks of a river was perhaps the first beam used by primitive ...

When a 'beam' experiences a bending moment it will change its shape and internal stresses (forces) will be developed. The photograph illustrates the shape change of elements of a beam in bending. Note ...