Home Back

Maximum Intensity of Vertical Force in horizontal plane on Buttress Dam Calculator

Stress Intensity Formula:

\[ \sigma_i = \frac{p}{A_{cs}} + \frac{M_b \times Y_t}{I_H} \]

N
N·m
m
m⁴
%

1. What is Maximum Intensity of Vertical Force in horizontal plane on Buttress Dam?

Definition: This calculator determines the maximum vertical stress intensity on a horizontal plane in a buttress dam, considering axial load and bending moment effects.

Purpose: It helps civil engineers assess the structural integrity of buttress dams under various loading conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \sigma_i = \frac{p}{A_{cs}} + \frac{M_b \times Y_t}{I_H} \]

Where:

  • \( \sigma_i \) — Stress intensity (Pascals)
  • \( p \) — Load on buttress dam (Newtons)
  • \( A_{cs} \) — Cross-sectional area of base (m²)
  • \( M_b \) — Bending moment (N·m)
  • \( Y_t \) — Distance from centroidal axis (m)
  • \( I_H \) — Moment of inertia of horizontal section (m⁴)

Explanation: The first term calculates direct stress from axial load, while the second term calculates bending stress.

3. Importance of Stress Calculation

Details: Proper stress analysis ensures dam safety, prevents structural failure, and helps optimize material usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters including load, cross-sectional area, bending moment, distance from centroid, and moment of inertia. The tolerance field (default ±5%) accounts for material variations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical tolerance percentage for dam calculations?
A: ±5% is common, but this may vary based on material properties and safety factors.

Q2: How do I determine the moment of inertia for a dam section?
A: This is calculated based on the dam's cross-sectional geometry using standard formulas.

Q3: What units should I use for input values?
A: Use consistent SI units: Newtons for force, meters for distance, m² for area, etc.

Q4: Why include both axial and bending stresses?
A: Buttress dams experience both types of loading, and their combined effect must be considered.

Q5: How does this relate to dam safety factors?
A: The calculated stress should be compared to material strength with appropriate safety margins.

Maximum Intensity of Vertical Force in horizontal plane on Buttress Dam Calculator© - All Rights Reserved 2025