Column Load Calculator
Calculate the Euler critical buckling load for a steel column based on height, moment of inertia, and end conditions.
How to Use the Column Load Calculator
- Enter the column height in metres.
- Enter the moment of inertia in cm⁴ (from section tables).
- Enter the elastic modulus (200 GPa for steel).
- Select the end condition and click Calculate.
Casos de Uso
- •Checking column buckling capacity in steel frames.
- •Comparing column sections for slender columns.
- •Educational structural engineering exercises.
- •Preliminary column design for multi-storey buildings.
Fórmula
Pcr = π²EI / (KL)², where K is the effective length factor depending on end conditions.
Preguntas Frecuentes
What is the K-factor?
K is the effective length factor: 0.5 for fixed-fixed, 1.0 for pinned-pinned, 2.0 for fixed-free (cantilever) columns.
What safety factor should I apply?
A safety factor of 2.5–4.0 is typically applied to the critical load to obtain the allowable design load.
Is it free?
Yes, all calculators on OhMyCalc are completely free.