Axial Thrust Calculator for Strut with Uniform Load

Axial Thrust Given Maximum Stress for Strut Subjected to Uniformly Distributed Load

Axial Thrust Formula:

\[ P_{axial} = \left( \sigma_{bmax} - \frac{M \cdot c}{I} \right) \cdot A_{sectional} \]

Maximum Bending Stress (σ_bmax):

Maximum Bending Moment (M):

N·m

Distance from Neutral Axis (c):

Moment of Inertia (I):

m⁴

Cross Sectional Area (A):

m²

Tolerance:

Axial Thrust (P_axial):

1. What is Axial Thrust in Structural Engineering?

Definition: Axial thrust is the resultant force of all axial forces acting on a structural member along its longitudinal axis.

Purpose: This calculator determines the axial thrust in struts or columns subjected to both axial loads and uniformly distributed lateral loads.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ P_{axial} = \left( \sigma_{bmax} - \frac{M \cdot c}{I} \right) \cdot A_{sectional} \]

Where:

\( P_{axial} \) — Axial thrust (N)
\( \sigma_{bmax} \) — Maximum bending stress (Pa)
\( M \) — Maximum bending moment (N·m)
\( c \) — Distance from neutral axis to extreme point (m)
\( I \) — Moment of inertia (m⁴)
\( A_{sectional} \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)

Explanation: The formula calculates axial thrust by considering both bending stress and the bending moment's contribution to stress distribution.

3. Importance of Axial Thrust Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures structural stability, prevents buckling, and helps in designing appropriate support systems for columns and struts.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters in consistent units. The tolerance field (default ±5%) allows for practical design considerations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical tolerance value for axial thrust calculations?
A: ±5% is common, but this may vary based on material properties and safety factors required for specific applications.

Q2: How do I determine the maximum bending moment?
A: For uniformly loaded struts, use M = wL²/8 where w is load per unit length and L is length.

Q3: What if my calculation results in negative axial thrust?
A: Negative values indicate the member is in tension rather than compression.

Q4: How does cross-sectional area affect axial thrust?
A: Larger cross-sections typically reduce stress but increase the total axial thrust capacity.

Q5: When would I need to adjust the tolerance value?
A: Adjust for higher safety requirements (reduce tolerance) or when working with well-characterized materials (may increase tolerance).