ENGINEERING – GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING CALCULATOR Bearing Capacity Hansen A precise tool.
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What is the Bearing Capacity Hansen & How does it work?
The ultimate bearing capacity of a shallow foundation is the maximum pressure that the soil can sustain before shear failure occurs beneath the footing. Hansen’s method expands Terzaghi’s classic equation by introducing shape, depth, and inclination factors that adjust the capacity for different foundation geometries and loading conditions. In Hansen’s formulation the capacity is expressed as a sum of three components: cohesion, surcharge (over‑burden) and the soil’s own weight. Each component is multiplied by a bearing‑capacity factor (Nc, Nq, NΞ³) that depends on the soil’s angle of internal friction (Ο•). The shape (s), depth (d) and inclination (i) factors modify these terms to reflect the real‑world footing shape, embedment depth and load eccentricity. The final equation is written as follows:
q_{ult}=c N_c s_c d_c i_c + \gamma D N_q s_q d_q i_q + 0.5 \gamma B N_\gamma s_\gamma d_\gamma i_\gamma
c = effective cohesion (kPa) β€’ Ο• = angle of internal friction (Β°) β€’ Ξ³ = effective unit weight (kN/mΒ³) β€’ B = foundation width (m) β€’ D = embedment depth (m)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Hansen’s method in engineering?
Hansen’s method calculates the ultimate bearing capacity of shallow foundations by adjusting for factors like shape, depth, and inclination.
How does Hansen’s method differ from Terzaghi’s equation?
Hansen’s method expands Terzaghi’s classic equation by incorporating additional factors such as shape, depth, and inclination to account for different foundation geometries and loading conditions.
What are the three components considered in Hansen’s formulation?
The three components considered in Hansen’s formulation are cohesion, surcharge (over-burden), and the soil’s own weight.
Can this calculator be used for deep foundations as well?
No, this calculator is specifically designed for shallow foundations. For deep foundations, different methods are typically used.
What factors does Hansen’s method adjust for in its calculations?
Hansen’s method adjusts for shape, depth, and inclination of the foundation to provide a more accurate estimation of bearing capacity under various loading conditions.
How do I interpret the results from this calculator?
The results indicate the maximum pressure the soil can sustain before shear failure occurs beneath the footing. This helps in designing foundations that can safely support the intended loads.
Are there any limitations to using Hansen’s method?
Yes, Hansen’s method assumes a homogeneous and isotropic soil, which may not always be the case in real-world scenarios. It also does not account for complex soil layers or groundwater conditions.

Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.