Bearing Capacity Factor Dependent on Unit Weight Calculator

Bearing Capacity Factor Formula:

\[ N_γ = \frac{q_f - (s_c \times C \times N_c + σ' \times N_q)}{0.5 \times B \times γ \times s_γ} \]

Ultimate Bearing Capacity (qf):

Shape Factor (sc):

Cohesion (C):

Bearing Capacity Factor (Nc):

Effective Surcharge (σ'):

Bearing Capacity Factor (Nq):

Width of Footing (B):

Unit Weight of Soil (γ):

N/m³

Shape Factor (sγ):

Bearing Capacity Factor (Nγ):

Definition: This is a dimensionless factor used in geotechnical engineering to calculate the ultimate bearing capacity of shallow foundations.

Purpose: It accounts for the contribution of soil's unit weight to the bearing capacity of foundations.

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ N_γ = \frac{q_f - (s_c \times C \times N_c + σ' \times N_q)}{0.5 \times B \times γ \times s_γ} \]

Where:

Details: Accurate calculation ensures safe foundation design, preventing structural failures due to inadequate bearing capacity.

Tips: Enter all required parameters. Default values are provided based on typical soil conditions. All values must be > 0.

Q1: What's the typical range for Nγ?
A: Values typically range from 0 to 50 depending on soil type and conditions.

Q2: Why is there a ±5% tolerance?
A: Soil properties naturally vary, and engineering calculations account for this uncertainty.

Q3: How do I determine the shape factors?
A: Shape factors depend on foundation geometry and are typically obtained from geotechnical references.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: Pascals for pressure, meters for dimensions, and N/m³ for unit weight.

Q5: When would Nγ be zero?
A: Nγ approaches zero for purely cohesive soils where bearing capacity comes mainly from cohesion.