How to use our load calculator
You don’t need to be a math expert to use our load calculator.
This guide will help you get started so you can calculate the dimensions you need for your project.
Note: Please be aware that the calculation results only apply to the selected profile. When designing structures with multiple profiles, strength calculations must be performed for the entire structure.
Make the right choices for your project
Our load calculator is designed to give you the information you need to make the right decisions when it comes to dimensioning your project.
The calculator allows you to test all our structural profiles in a variety of different use scenarios.
You can choose the profile dimensions and the load conditions you want to calculate.
Understand our load calculator
1. Profile Selection
Here you select the type of profile you want to analyze.
2. Dimension
Here you select the dimensions of the chosen profile type. Dimensions are specified in mm as H-height, B-width, and T-thickness. In the menu, you will find our available and stock-listed profiles.
3. E-Modulus (MPa)
E-Modulus (MPa) is the elasticity unit that describes the profile’s stiffness. For our fiberglass profiles, the stiffness is 24,000 MPa.
4. Load Profile
Here you select how the load will be distributed on the profile. The following options are available:
– Load Case 1 – Load applied in Newton (N) as a concentrated load in the middle of the profile, supported at both ends.
– Load Case 2 – Load applied evenly distributed along the entire profile in Newton per meter (N/m), supported at both ends.
– Load Case 3 – Load applied in Newton (N) as a concentrated load at the end of the profile, supported at the opposite end.
– Load Case 4 – Load applied evenly distributed along the entire profile in Newton per meter (N/m), supported at one end.
5. Density (g/cm³)
Density (g/cm³) is the material’s density, i.e., weight per volume. This value is pre-filled as 1.8 g/cm³ (1800 kg/m³), which applies to profiles manufactured by pulling the profile through a forming tool (pultrusion).
6. Length (m)
Here, you enter the length of the profile subjected to the load. For Load Cases 1 and 2, use the length between support points. For Load Cases 3 and 4, use the cantilevered length.
7. Distributed Load (N/m) / Point Load (N)
Here, you specify the load applied to the profile. For evenly distributed loads, specify the load in N/m (e.g., 3,000 N/m = 3 kN/m ≈ 300 kg/m). For concentrated loads, specify the load in N (e.g., 3,000 N = 3 kN ≈ 300 kg).
Results
The different results will update in real time based on the conditions you have defined above. The results give you a clear overview of how the profile behaves under load, allowing you to assess whether it meets the requirements of your project.
Below you will find an explanation of all the results presented to you.
Max. Deflection (mm)
Calculated deflection in mm for the profile (maximum value). Deflection should not exceed 1:200 of the loaded profile length. Example: With a loaded profile length of 4,000 mm (4 m), the deflection should not exceed 20 mm.
Max. Bending moment (Nm)
The bending moment for the profile in Newton-meters (maximum value).
Max. Bending stress (MPa)
The bending stress for the profile in Megapascals (MPa) as the maximum value.
Elongation (%)
The profile’s elongation under load, expressed as a percentage.
W (mm3)
The section modulus, which describes the stiffness of the profile in the bending.
I (mm⁴)
Treghetsmomentet, som beskriver stivheten til profilen i bøying.
Mass (kg)
The weight of the profile, expressed in kilograms.
Area (mm2)
The cross-sectional area of the profile, representing the area of the cut surface when the profile is sectioned across.
Example
Can a 150 mm H-beam, supported at both ends, with a 4 m open span handle a load of 300 kg/m (total load for 4 m = 1.2 tons)?
From the calculator, select H-profile – Under Dimensions, select an H-beam with H-152 mm, B-152 mm, T-6.4 mm. From Load Profile, select Loading Case 2 – evenly distributed load.
Under Length (m), input 4 m, and under Distributed Load, input 3000 N/m (300 kg = 2943 N).
Calculated deflection: 7 mm
The recommended maximum deflection is 1:200, which for a 4 m open span results in a maximum allowable deflection of 20 mm.
Conclusion: The calculated deflection is 7 mm. The recommended maximum deflection is 20 mm. The 150 mm H-beam can be used for a load of 300 kg/m.
Many benefits of fiberglass!
“We chose fiberglass primarily because of its lifespan. It’s about lifespan, and then it’s about cost of ownership”
– Jon Vestengen, Managing director
Lofoten Biomarine
