The Flexural Modulus Calculator helps users determine the flexural modulus of a material based on measured inputs from a bending test. Flexural modulus, also known as the modulus of rupture or bending modulus, measures a material's stiffness when bent. It shows how much a material resists deformation under a bending load. This calculator is mainly used in materials science, structural engineering, product design, and quality control.
By entering the values for span length, applied force, width, height, and deflection, the calculator instantly gives the flexural modulus. It saves time and reduces the risk of manual errors, especially when handling large datasets or repeated calculations.
The Flexural Modulus Calculator belongs to the mechanical property calculator category.
formula of Flexural Modulus Calculator

Where:
Ef = Flexural modulus (in Pascals or psi)
L = Support span length (distance between supports) in meters or inches
F = Load applied at the midpoint (N or lb)
w = Width of the specimen (m or in)
h = Height (thickness) of the specimen (m or in)
d = Deflection at the midpoint due to load F (m or in)
Reference Table: Common Load and Deflection Values
Here is a helpful table that gives approximate flexural modulus values based on standard inputs. This is useful if you want a quick reference without calculating manually every time.
Span Length (L) | Load (F) | Width (w) | Height (h) | Deflection (d) | Approx. Flexural Modulus (Ef) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
0.2 m | 50 N | 0.02 m | 0.01 m | 0.005 m | 20.0 GPa |
0.3 m | 80 N | 0.03 m | 0.015 m | 0.006 m | 18.5 GPa |
0.25 m | 60 N | 0.025 m | 0.012 m | 0.0045 m | 21.3 GPa |
0.15 m | 40 N | 0.015 m | 0.008 m | 0.003 m | 19.8 GPa |
0.1 m | 20 N | 0.01 m | 0.005 m | 0.002 m | 16.0 GPa |
These values are approximations and should not replace actual measurements in critical applications. Always use accurate test data for precise results.
Example of Flexural Modulus Calculator
Let’s go through a simple example to understand how the calculator works.
Given:
- Span length (L) = 0.2 m
- Load at midpoint (F) = 50 N
- Width of the specimen (w) = 0.02 m
- Height of the specimen (h) = 0.01 m
- Deflection at midpoint (d) = 0.005 m
Apply the formula:
Ef = (0.2³ × 50) / (4 × 0.02 × 0.01³ × 0.005)
Ef = (0.008 × 50) / (4 × 0.02 × 0.000001 × 0.005)
Ef = 0.4 / (4 × 0.02 × 0.000001 × 0.005)
Ef = 0.4 / 0.0000000004
Ef = 1,000,000,000 Pa or 1.0 GPa
So, the flexural modulus of the material is approximately 1.0 GPa.
Most Common FAQs
The flexural modulus is used to measure the stiffness of a material when it is bent. It helps engineers and designers choose the right material for applications that involve bending or flexing.
Yes, as long as you have the correct values for span length, force, width, height, and deflection, you can use this calculator for plastics, metals, wood, and more.
No, flexural modulus measures stiffness during bending, while tensile modulus measures stiffness during stretching. Both are important but used in different testing conditions.