1. What is the Shear Load Calculator?

Definition: The Shear Load Calculator determines the maximum load a bolted joint can support to resist shear failure using the formula \(P_s = n \cdot A_b \cdot \tau_{all} \cdot N\), reporting the result in kips.

Purpose: Assists engineers in analyzing the shear capacity of bolted connections.

Reference:Applied Strength of Materials for Engineering Technology

http://www.etcs.pfw.edu/~dupenb/ET_200/Applied%20Str%20of%20Mat%20for%20ET%20v14%20July%202018.pdf

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

Formula:

Where:

• \(P_s\): Shear load (kips)
• \(n\): Number of shear planes per bolt
• \(A_b\): Bolt cross-sectional area (in²)
• \(\tau_{all}\): Allowable shear strength (ksi)
• \(N\): Number of bolts

Steps:

• Step 1: Input Bolt Diameter. Enter the diameter (e.g., 0.75 in).
• Step 2: Input Number of Bolts. Enter the number of bolts (e.g., 4).
• Step 3: Input Shear Planes per Bolt. Enter the number of shear planes (e.g., 2).
• Step 4: Input Bolt Shear Strength. Enter the strength (e.g., 30 ksi).
• Step 5: Calculate. The calculator computes the shear load in kips.

3. Importance of Shear Load Calculation

Calculating shear load is crucial for:

• Joint Strength: Ensures bolted joints can withstand shear forces.
• Design Safety: Prevents shear failure in structural connections.

4. Using the Calculator

Example: Bolt Diameter = 0.75 in, Number of Bolts = 4, Shear Planes = 2, Shear Strength = 30 ksi:

• Step 1: \( A_b = \frac{\pi (0.75)^2}{4} \approx 0.442 \, \text{in}^2 \).
• Step 2: \( P_s = 2 \cdot 0.442 \cdot 30 \cdot 4 \approx 106 \, \text{kips}\).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is shear load?
A: Shear load is the force a bolt can resist before failing in shear.

Q: Why use kips?
A: Kips is a common unit for load in engineering calculations.