Bearing Capacity depending on Shape Factors Calculator

Bearing Capacity Formula:

\[ q_s = (s_c \times C \times N_c) + (\sigma_s \times N_q) + (0.5 \times \gamma \times B \times N_\gamma \times s_\gamma) \]

Shape Factor (Cohesion):

Cohesion:

Bearing Capacity Factor (Cohesion):

Effective Surcharge:

Bearing Capacity Factor (Surcharge):

Unit Weight of Soil:

N/m³

Width of Footing:

Bearing Capacity Factor (Unit Weight):

Shape Factor (Unit Weight):

Bearing Capacity (Pa):

1. What is Bearing Capacity depending on Shape Factors?

Definition: This calculator determines the ultimate bearing capacity of soil considering shape factors that account for different foundation shapes.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and construction professionals design foundations with appropriate dimensions and shapes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ q_s = (s_c \times C \times N_c) + (\sigma_s \times N_q) + (0.5 \times \gamma \times B \times N_\gamma \times s_\gamma) \]

Where:

\( q_s \) — Ultimate bearing capacity (Pa)
\( s_c \) — Shape factor for cohesion term
\( C \) — Cohesion of soil (Pa)
\( N_c \) — Bearing capacity factor for cohesion
\( \sigma_s \) — Effective surcharge (Pa)
\( N_q \) — Bearing capacity factor for surcharge
\( \gamma \) — Unit weight of soil (N/m³)
\( B \) — Width of footing (m)
\( N_\gamma \) — Bearing capacity factor for unit weight
\( s_\gamma \) — Shape factor for unit weight term

3. Importance of Bearing Capacity Calculation

Details: Accurate bearing capacity calculation ensures foundation stability, prevents excessive settlement, and maintains structural integrity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters. Default values are provided but should be adjusted based on specific soil conditions and foundation geometry.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical shape factor values?
A: Shape factors typically range from 1.0 to 1.3 for rectangular footings and 1.2 to 1.6 for square/circular footings.

Q2: How do I determine soil cohesion?
A: Cohesion is determined through laboratory tests like unconfined compression tests or field vane shear tests.

Q3: What does ±5% mean for input values?
A: It indicates the typical accuracy range for these parameters in geotechnical engineering practice.

Q4: How does footing width affect bearing capacity?
A: Wider footings generally have higher bearing capacity, especially in cohesionless soils.

Q5: Should safety factors be applied to the result?
A: Yes, typical safety factors of 2.5-3.0 are applied to the ultimate bearing capacity for design purposes.