Concentrated Wheel Load given Average Load on Pipe Calculator

Concentrated Wheel Load Formula:

\[ P_{wheel} = \frac{W_{avg} \times L_{eff}}{I_e \times C_t} \]

Average Load on Pipe:

N/m

Effective Length of Pipe:

Impact Factor:

Load Coefficient:

Concentrated Wheel Load (N):

1. What is Concentrated Wheel Load?

Definition: Concentrated Wheel Load refers to single loads that act over a relatively small area, typically from vehicle wheels on pipes buried underground.

Purpose: This calculation helps engineers design pipe systems that can withstand the stresses from wheel loads passing over them.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ P_{wheel} = \frac{W_{avg} \times L_{eff}}{I_e \times C_t} \]

Where:

\( P_{wheel} \) — Concentrated wheel load (Newtons)
\( W_{avg} \) — Average load on pipe (N/m)
\( L_{eff} \) — Effective length of pipe (m)
\( I_e \) — Impact factor
\( C_t \) — Load coefficient

Explanation: The formula calculates the concentrated wheel load by considering the average load distribution, pipe length, impact factor, and load coefficient.

3. Importance of Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures pipes can withstand vehicle loads without failure, preventing costly repairs and service interruptions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the average load on pipe (N/m), effective length (m), impact factor (default 2.73), and load coefficient (default 10). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical impact factor for roads?
A: For highways, the impact factor typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.0, with 2.73 being a common default value.

Q2: How is effective length determined?
A: Effective length depends on pipe material, diameter, and burial conditions. It's often calculated using engineering standards.

Q3: What affects the load coefficient?
A: The load coefficient depends on conduit cross-section dimensions and depth of cover over the pipe.

Q4: Why include ±5% tolerance?
A: The ±5% accounts for variations in material properties, installation conditions, and load estimations.

Q5: How does this relate to pipe design?
A: The calculated wheel load is used to verify pipe strength and select appropriate pipe materials and wall thicknesses.