Length of Bearing for Applied Load at least Half of Depth of Beam Calculator

Bearing Length Formula:

\[ N = \left(\frac{R}{(67.5 \times t_w^{3/2}) \times \sqrt{F_y \times t_f}} - 1\right) \times \frac{D}{3 \times (t_w/t_f)^{1.5}} \]

Concentrated Load of Reaction:

Web Thickness:

Yield Stress of Steel:

Flange Thickness:

Depth of Section:

Bearing or Plate Length:

1. What is Bearing Length for Applied Load?

Definition: This calculator determines the required length of bearing when a concentrated load is applied to a beam at least half the depth of the beam.

Purpose: It helps structural engineers ensure proper load distribution and prevent web crippling in steel beams.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ N = \left(\frac{R}{(67.5 \times t_w^{3/2}) \times \sqrt{F_y \times t_f}} - 1\right) \times \frac{D}{3 \times (t_w/t_f)^{1.5}} \]

Where:

\( N \) — Bearing or Plate Length (m)
\( R \) — Concentrated Load of Reaction (N)
\( t_w \) — Web Thickness (m)
\( F_y \) — Yield Stress of Steel (Pa)
\( t_f \) — Flange Thickness (m)
\( D \) — Depth of Section (m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the minimum bearing length required to distribute the concentrated load safely.

3. Importance of Bearing Length Calculation

Details: Proper bearing length calculation prevents local buckling, web crippling, and ensures structural integrity under concentrated loads.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters. Default values are provided for common steel sections. All values must be > 0. The ±5% indicates typical tolerance in measurements.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When is this calculation needed?
A: When concentrated loads are applied to beams, especially when the load is at least half the beam depth.

Q2: What's a typical yield stress for structural steel?
A: Common values range from 250-350 MPa (250,000,000-350,000,000 Pa).

Q3: How accurate are the results?
A: Results are theoretical and should be verified with engineering judgment. The ±5% accounts for measurement variations.

Q4: What if my load is less than half the beam depth?
A: A different formula would be needed for loads applied closer to the beam end.

Q5: Does this include safety factors?
A: No, appropriate safety factors should be applied separately according to design codes.