Lecture 3 - Compression
Lecture 3 - Compression
Euler Load
Consider a straight strut carrying an
axial compressive load as shown below.
The purpose of the following analysis is to
investigate whether the strut can remain in
equilibrium in any NON-STRAIGHT
configuration such as shown by curve 1 -3-2,
under a suitable value of axial force P.
The Bending moment at any distance x is: M=P∙v
d 2v
But M EI 2
dx
d 2v
Therefore EI 2 Pv 0 [1]
dx
Trial Solution of Eq. [1]
p p
v A sin x B cos
x
EI
[2]
EI
It can be shown that Eq.[2] satisfies Eq.[1]
A and B are Integration Constants that can
be obtained from the boundary conditions as
follows:
v ( x 0) 0 B 0
P
v( x L) 0 A sin x 0
[3]
EI
EI
Pcr 22
[6]
L
This case was first solved by the Swiss
Mathematician Euler, and is therefore frequently
termed EULER LOAD
Equation [6] is applicable to a compression
member which is pinned at each end. Other
support conditions can be taken care of by
using in eq. [6] the effective length Leff of
the member instead of its actual length L.
Effective Length of a compression
member is, the length of a compression
member pinned at each end which
would deflect in a similar way to the
member being considered.
Thus in general, the Euler Load of a compression
member is given by:
EI [7]
Pcr 2
2
Leff
I
r2 where r radius of gyration
A
2E
Therefore cr 2
Leff
r
Or
E
2
Leff
cr 2 where Slenderness ratio
r
2 2
b m c
Where m is the ratio LE / r of a whole
member about that axis
c is as defined above