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Width Of Footing Given Net Ultimate Bearing Capacity For Local Shear Failure Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ B = \frac{q_{nu} - \left( \left( \frac{2}{3} \times C \times N_c \right) + \left( \sigma_s \times (N_q - 1) \right) \right)}{0.5 \times \gamma \times N_\gamma} \]

Pascal
Pascal
Pascal
N/m³

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1. What is the Width of Footing Calculation?

The Width of Footing calculation determines the required width of a foundation footing based on soil properties and loading conditions, specifically for local shear failure scenarios using the net ultimate bearing capacity approach.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ B = \frac{q_{nu} - \left( \left( \frac{2}{3} \times C \times N_c \right) + \left( \sigma_s \times (N_q - 1) \right) \right)}{0.5 \times \gamma \times N_\gamma} \]

Where:

Explanation: This formula calculates the minimum width required for a footing to prevent local shear failure in soil, considering soil cohesion, surcharge, and unit weight factors.

3. Importance of Width of Footing Calculation

Details: Proper footing width calculation is essential for structural stability, preventing settlement, and ensuring the foundation can safely transfer loads to the soil without causing shear failure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required soil parameters and loading conditions. Ensure values are in correct units (Pascal for pressure/stress, N/m³ for unit weight). All values must be positive and non-zero where applicable.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is local shear failure?
A: Local shear failure occurs when the soil fails gradually with significant settlement before complete failure, typically in loose or compressible soils.

Q2: How does this differ from general shear failure?
A: General shear failure happens suddenly in dense soils with well-defined failure surfaces, while local shear failure occurs gradually in less dense soils.

Q3: What factors affect bearing capacity factors?
A: Bearing capacity factors depend on soil friction angle, with different values for general shear, local shear, and punching shear failure modes.

Q4: When is this calculation most applicable?
A: This calculation is particularly important for foundations on soils prone to local shear failure, such as loose sands or soft clays.

Q5: How does effective surcharge affect footing width?
A: Higher effective surcharge increases soil confinement, which generally increases bearing capacity and may allow for narrower footings.

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