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The formula calculates the required dam thickness to maintain stress as wholly compressive in a rectangular section. It ensures that the eccentric load doesn't cause tensile stresses in the material.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula ensures that the resultant force acts within the middle third of the base, preventing tensile stresses from developing in the material.
Details: Maintaining wholly compressive stress is crucial for structural stability in dams, retaining walls, and other load-bearing structures. Tensile stresses can lead to cracking and structural failure in materials like concrete and masonry that have poor tensile strength.
Tips: Enter the eccentricity of load in meters. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will compute the minimum required dam thickness to maintain wholly compressive stress.
Q1: Why is the factor 6 used in this formula?
A: The factor 6 comes from the requirement that the resultant force must act within the middle third of the base to prevent tensile stresses.
Q2: What materials is this formula applicable to?
A: This formula is particularly important for materials with low tensile strength, such as concrete, masonry, and certain types of rock.
Q3: What happens if the eccentricity exceeds t/6?
A: If the eccentricity exceeds t/6, tensile stresses will develop in the material, which can lead to cracking and potential structural failure.
Q4: Can this formula be used for other cross-sections?
A: This specific formula applies to rectangular sections. Other cross-sections have different requirements for maintaining wholly compressive stress.
Q5: How does this relate to dam design?
A: In dam design, maintaining wholly compressive stress is essential to prevent water leakage through cracks and ensure long-term structural integrity.