Cross-sectional area given maximum stress for strut subjected to uniformly distributed load Calculator

Cross-sectional Area Formula:

\[ A = \frac{P}{\sigma_{max} - \left(\frac{M \times c}{I}\right)} \]

Axial Thrust (P):

Maximum Bending Stress (σ_max):

Maximum Bending Moment (M):

N·m

Distance from Neutral Axis (c):

Moment of Inertia (I):

m⁴

Safety Factor:

Cross-sectional Area (A):

1. What is Cross-sectional Area Calculator for Strut?

Definition: This calculator determines the required cross-sectional area of a strut subjected to both axial thrust and uniformly distributed load, considering maximum bending stress.

Purpose: It helps structural engineers design struts that can withstand combined axial and bending loads without exceeding material stress limits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ A = \frac{P}{\sigma_{max} - \left(\frac{M \times c}{I}\right)} \]

Where:

\( A \) — Required cross-sectional area (m²)
\( P \) — Axial thrust (N)
\( \sigma_{max} \) — Maximum allowable bending stress (Pa)
\( M \) — Maximum bending moment (N·m)
\( c \) — Distance from neutral axis to extreme fiber (m)
\( I \) — Moment of inertia (m⁴)

3. Importance of Cross-sectional Area Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures structural integrity, prevents buckling, and maintains safety margins under combined loading conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters including axial thrust, maximum stress, bending moment, geometric properties, and safety factor (±5%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the safety factor for?
A: The safety factor accounts for uncertainties in loading, material properties, and construction tolerances (typically 1.5-2.0).

Q2: How do I determine the moment of inertia?
A: It depends on the cross-section shape (I = bh³/12 for rectangles, I = πd⁴/64 for circles).

Q3: What if I get a negative denominator?
A: This indicates the bending stress alone exceeds the material's maximum stress capacity - redesign is needed.

Q4: How is the distance 'c' determined?
A: It's the maximum distance from the neutral axis to the extreme fiber of the cross-section.

Q5: Can this be used for any material?
A: Yes, as long as you input the appropriate maximum stress value for your material.