Bearing Capacity Factor Dependent on Unit Weight for General Shear Failure Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ N_γ = \frac{q_{nu} - (c \cdot N_c + σ_s \cdot (N_q - 1))}{0.5 \cdot B \cdot γ} \]

Net Ultimate BC (q_nu):

Cohesion in Soil (c):

Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Cohesion (N_c):

Effective Surcharge (σ_s):

Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Surcharge (N_q):

Width of Footing (B):

Unit Weight of Soil (γ):

N/m³

Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Unit Weight (N_γ):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Bearing Capacity Factor Dependent on Unit Weight?

The Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Unit Weight (N_γ) is a dimensionless factor used in geotechnical engineering to calculate the ultimate bearing capacity of soil. It represents the contribution of soil unit weight to the overall bearing capacity of foundations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ N_γ = \frac{q_{nu} - (c \cdot N_c + σ_s \cdot (N_q - 1))}{0.5 \cdot B \cdot γ} \]

Where:

\( N_γ \) — Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Unit Weight
\( q_{nu} \) — Net Ultimate Bearing Capacity (Pa)
\( c \) — Cohesion in Soil (Pa)
\( N_c \) — Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Cohesion
\( σ_s \) — Effective Surcharge (Pa)
\( N_q \) — Bearing Capacity Factor dependent on Surcharge
\( B \) — Width of Footing (m)
\( γ \) — Unit Weight of Soil (N/m³)

Explanation: This formula calculates the bearing capacity factor that accounts for the effect of soil unit weight on the foundation's bearing capacity under general shear failure conditions.

3. Importance of Bearing Capacity Factor Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of N_γ is crucial for designing safe and efficient foundations. It helps engineers determine the soil's ability to support structural loads without experiencing shear failure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters in consistent units (Pa for pressures, m for length, N/m³ for unit weight). Ensure all values are positive and valid for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is general shear failure?
A: General shear failure occurs when a foundation fails by shearing through the entire soil mass, characterized by well-defined failure surfaces and significant surface heaving.

Q2: How does unit weight affect bearing capacity?
A: Higher unit weight generally increases bearing capacity as denser soils provide better support and resistance to shear failure.

Q3: What are typical values for N_γ?
A: N_γ values typically range from 0 to 50, depending on soil properties and foundation conditions.

Q4: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula is specifically for general shear failure conditions in cohesive-frictional soils with strip foundations.

Q5: What are the limitations of this calculation?
A: The calculation assumes homogeneous soil conditions and may not account for complex soil stratigraphy or special loading conditions.