Thickness of Horizontal Plate Fixed at Edges Calculator

Thickness Formula:

\[ Th = \sqrt{0.7 \times f_{horizontal} \times \frac{L_{Horizontal}^2}{f_{Edges}} \times \frac{a^4}{L_{Horizontal}^4 + a^4}} \]

Maximum Pressure on Horizontal Plate:

Length of Horizontal Plate:

Maximum Stress in Horizontal Plate:

Effective Width of Horizontal Plate:

Tolerance:

Calculated Thickness:

1. What is Thickness of Horizontal Plate Fixed at Edges?

Definition: This calculator determines the required thickness of a horizontal plate that is fixed at its edges based on pressure, dimensions, and material stress limits.

Purpose: It helps engineers design plates that can withstand specified loads without exceeding stress limits at the fixed edges.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Th = \sqrt{0.7 \times f_{horizontal} \times \frac{L_{Horizontal}^2}{f_{Edges}} \times \frac{a^4}{L_{Horizontal}^4 + a^4}} \]

Where:

\( Th \) — Thickness of horizontal plate (meters)
\( f_{horizontal} \) — Maximum pressure on horizontal plate (Pascals)
\( L_{Horizontal} \) — Length of horizontal plate (meters)
\( f_{Edges} \) — Maximum stress at fixed edges (Pascals)
\( a \) — Effective width of horizontal plate (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates thickness based on bending moment considerations for a plate fixed at all edges.

3. Importance of Plate Thickness Calculation

Details: Proper thickness calculation ensures structural integrity, prevents excessive deflection, and maintains stress within safe limits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters including maximum pressure, plate dimensions, stress limit, and desired tolerance percentage. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does "fixed at edges" mean?
A: It means the plate is rigidly supported along all its edges, preventing rotation and translation.

Q2: Why is there a tolerance field?
A: Manufacturing tolerances are important for practical applications. The default ±5% accounts for typical variations.

Q3: How do I determine the maximum stress at edges?
A: This is typically the allowable stress for your material, found in material specifications or codes.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: meters for dimensions, Pascals for pressure and stress.

Q5: Can this be used for circular plates?
A: No, this formula is specifically for rectangular plates fixed at all edges.