Elastic Bending Strain

What is this formula?

Elastic bending strain calculates the normal strain at a fiber located a distance y from the neutral axis of a bent structural member. In elastic beam theory, strain varies linearly with the distance from the neutral axis.

When to use it

Use this formula when analyzing beams, plates, or structural members under elastic bending, especially when the radius of curvature is known or can be obtained from curvature.

Example

A beam has a radius of curvature of 25 m. Calculate the elastic bending strain at a fiber located 0.08 m from the neutral axis.

Data:

y = 0.08 m

R = 25 m

Formula:

ε = y / R

Substitution:

ε = 0.08 / 25

Result:

ε = 0.0032

Applications

Elastic beam analysis, structural steel design, reinforced concrete theory, strain measurement, flexural testing, and serviceability evaluation.