The statically indeterminate multi span beam supported on hinges is known as continuous beam. These beams are supported by two or more supports. The continuous beams can be provided with either free support or fixed support. It is not necessary that the support is provided at ends of continuous beam. End span of the continuous beams can be cantilever beam as well.

The condition required for the continuous beam, is that at least one support should develop a reaction along the beam axis.

The second moment of area remains as constant within each section. But, it is not necessary that the moment of inertia will remain same for all the sections of the continuous beam.

Consider the below figure showing the continuous beam.

The stiffness and strength of the continuous beam are more than that of the simply supported beam. The factors that govern the design analysis of continuous beam are as given below.

• The type of load supported by the beam.

• The strength of the material used for construction of the continuous beam.

Depending upon the region of application of the continuous beam, different materials are used for the purpose of construction of continuous beam. The different materials used for the construction of continuous beams are carbon steel, wood, aluminum, concrete, etc.

Continuous beams are widely used in the construction of bridges.