Column Stability

Compression strengths of columns can be predicted using theoretical elastic solutions for slender, symmetrical and centroidally-loaded columns. For short or eccentrically loaded columns, corrections need to be made using one of several methods:

  • non-linear material behavior for compact sections

  • semi-empirical method based on test data

  • a curve fit (interaction) from Euler solution to cutoff (crippling, yield) such as Johnson-Euler.

Note: Beam-column strength checks should be done, even on symmetrically loaded columns, with an assumed manufacturing tolerance such as L/400.

Column Properties Input

Unit System: /

Section Properties





Length and Fixity




Material Properties

Sign in





Applied Load (optional)


M.S. Labeling (FS ONLY USED WHEN LIMIT LOAD SELECTED)






References

Timoshenko, S. P., and Gere, J. M. (1961). Theory of Elastic Stability (2nd ed.). McGraw-Hill, New York, NY. Euler buckling, end-fixity coefficients, columns under distributed axial load.

Bruhn, E. F. (1973). Analysis and Design of Flight Vehicle Structures. Tri-State Offset Company, Cincinnati, OH. Chapter C2, column strength: tangent-modulus (Euler-Engesser) and Johnson-Euler methods.

Ramberg, W., and Osgood, W. R. (1943). Description of Stress-Strain Curves by Three Parameters. NACA Technical Note 902. Stress-strain curve used for the tangent modulus.

Boresi, A. P., and Schmidt, R. J. (2003). Advanced Mechanics of Materials (6th ed.). John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, NJ. Principal second moments of area.

Niu, M. C. Y. (2001). Airframe Stress Analysis and Sizing (2nd ed.). Hong Kong Conmilit Press, Hong Kong. Column and crippling allowables.

MIL-HDBK-5J (2003). Metallic Materials and Elements for Aerospace Vehicle Structures. U.S. Department of Defense. Material allowables filled by the dropdown.

DISCLAIMER: The methods and calculation on aNOWysis.com are provided as means to educate the reader. There is no warranty, expessed or implied, as to the relevance or accuracy of the methods or calculations. All calculations should be checked by a qualified analyst for appropriateness and accuracy. We will not be held liable for any damages, injuries or deaths caused by using methods or calculations from this site.