CONTRUCTION & DIY CALCULATOR
Soil Bearing Capacity
A precise tool.
What is the Soil Bearing Capacity & How does it work?
Soil bearing capacity is the maximum pressure that a soil can safely support without undergoing failure, such as shear failure or excessive settlement.
The ultimate bearing capacity of soil (qu) can be estimated using empirical methods like the Terzaghi’s bearing capacity theory. The formula for calculating the ultimate bearing capacity is given by:
q_u = cN_c + gamma N_q h + 0.5gamma N_{gamma} B
qu = ultimate bearing capacity, c = cohesion of soil, Nc, Nq, NΞ³ = bearing capacity factors, Ξ³ = unit weight of soil, h = depth of footing below ground surface, B = width of the footing
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is soil bearing capacity?
Soil bearing capacity is the maximum pressure that soil can safely support without failing.
How do I calculate ultimate bearing capacity?
Use the formula qu = cNc + Ξ³Nqh + 0.5Ξ³NΞ³B, where c is cohesion, Nc, Nq, and NΞ³ are factors, Ξ³ is unit weight, and B is width.
What are bearing capacity factors?
Bearing capacity factors (Nc, Nq, NΞ³) are empirical values used in the formula to account for soil type and other conditions.
Why is soil bearing capacity important?
It’s crucial for ensuring foundation stability and preventing structural failure in construction projects.
Can I use this calculator for any soil type?
This calculator uses a general formula, but results may vary depending on specific soil properties and conditions.
What happens if the calculated capacity is exceeded?
Exceeding the soil bearing capacity can lead to foundation failure, such as sinking or cracking of structures.
How do I determine the cohesion of soil?
Cohesion (c) is typically determined through laboratory tests on soil samples.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.