How would you calculate the maximum deflection of a cantilevered beam?

How to Answer
Answer Example

This question is asked to gauge whether or not the interviewee is familiar with Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, which is typically covered in the first years of engineering school. A cantilevered beam refers to a structure that is fixed on one end and allowed to flex or bend on the other end, like a diving board at a swimming pool. You can calculate the deflection using the force applied (F), the length of the beam (L), the elastic modulus of the material (E), and the cross sectional area moment of inertia (I). The specific equation is (FL^3)/(3EI).

"Assuming a single load at the end, the deflection can be calculated by utilizing the Euler-Bernoulli equation for the deflection of a cantilevered beam. Given the length of the beam, the cross-section, the force applied, and the material's elastic modulus, I would be able to calculate the amount of distance the free end will travel using the equation (FL^3)/(3EI). If the load was not placed at the end of the beam, then I would need to utilize a different equation."

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How to Answer: How would you calculate the maximum deflection of a cantilevered beam?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Mechanical Engineer job interview.

34. How would you calculate the maximum deflection of a cantilevered beam?

How to Answer

This question is asked to gauge whether or not the interviewee is familiar with Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, which is typically covered in the first years of engineering school. A cantilevered beam refers to a structure that is fixed on one end and allowed to flex or bend on the other end, like a diving board at a swimming pool. You can calculate the deflection using the force applied (F), the length of the beam (L), the elastic modulus of the material (E), and the cross sectional area moment of inertia (I). The specific equation is (FL^3)/(3EI).

Written by Jason Toby on October 12th, 2020

Answer Example

"Assuming a single load at the end, the deflection can be calculated by utilizing the Euler-Bernoulli equation for the deflection of a cantilevered beam. Given the length of the beam, the cross-section, the force applied, and the material's elastic modulus, I would be able to calculate the amount of distance the free end will travel using the equation (FL^3)/(3EI). If the load was not placed at the end of the beam, then I would need to utilize a different equation."

Written by Jason Toby on October 12th, 2020

Next Question