Crippling Load Formula:
Definition: The crippling load is the maximum load a column can bear before it buckles when one end is fixed and the other is hinged.
Purpose: This calculation helps structural engineers design columns that can withstand expected loads without buckling.
The calculator uses Euler's formula for columns with one fixed and one hinged end:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the critical buckling load based on material stiffness, cross-section properties, and column length.
Details: Accurate calculation prevents structural failure, ensures safety, and helps optimize material usage in construction.
Tips: Enter the modulus of elasticity, moment of inertia, column length, and optional tolerance percentage. All values must be > 0 except tolerance which can be 0.
Q1: Why is the formula different for fixed-hinged columns?
A: The effective length factor changes with end conditions, affecting the buckling load.
Q2: What's a typical modulus of elasticity for steel columns?
A: For structural steel, E ≈ 200 GPa (200 × 10⁹ Pa).
Q3: How does column length affect crippling load?
A: Load capacity decreases with the square of length - double the length reduces capacity to 1/4.
Q4: What does the tolerance percentage represent?
A: It provides a ± range around the calculated value to account for material variations and safety factors.
Q5: When would I use 0% tolerance?
A: When you want the theoretical value without any safety margin, typically only for academic purposes.