Bearing Capacity Calculator - Terzaghi Meyerhof
Free Bearing capacity terzaghi meyerhof Calculator for soil & sediment mechanics. Enter variables to compute results with formulas and detailed steps.
Formula
q_u = c * Nc + gamma * Df * Nq + 0.5 * gamma * B * Ng
This Bearing Capacity Calculator (Terzaghi & Meyerhof) computes results from your provided inputs using the calculator's underlying model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Terzaghi bearing capacity equation?
The Terzaghi bearing capacity equation estimates the ultimate bearing capacity of a shallow strip foundation as q_u = c * Nc + gamma * Df * Nq + 0.5 * gamma * B * Ng. Here c is soil cohesion, gamma is soil unit weight, Df is foundation depth, B is foundation width, and Nc, Nq, and Ng are bearing capacity factors that depend on the internal friction angle. This classical equation assumes a general shear failure mode in the soil beneath the footing.
How does the Meyerhof method differ from Terzaghi?
The Meyerhof method extends the Terzaghi approach by including shape, depth, and inclination correction factors, making it more versatile for different foundation geometries and loading conditions. Meyerhof also uses a different set of bearing capacity factors derived from a more rigorous slip-line analysis. In practice, Meyerhof tends to give slightly higher bearing capacities for deeper foundations because the depth factor accounts for the shear strength of soil above the footing base.
What factor of safety should I use for bearing capacity?
A factor of safety of 3.0 is commonly used for bearing capacity design in most building codes and geotechnical standards. This means the allowable bearing pressure is one-third of the ultimate bearing capacity. For temporary structures or well-characterized soil conditions, a factor of safety of 2.0 to 2.5 may be acceptable, while critical structures may require higher values. The factor of safety accounts for soil variability, load uncertainties, and simplified assumptions in the bearing capacity theory.
What are bearing capacity factors Nc, Nq, and Ng?
Bearing capacity factors Nc, Nq, and Ng are dimensionless coefficients that depend on the internal friction angle of the soil. Nc represents the contribution of cohesion to bearing capacity, Nq represents the contribution of the overburden pressure (surcharge), and Ng represents the contribution of the soil self-weight below the foundation. As the friction angle increases, all three factors increase exponentially, reflecting the greater shear strength of more frictional soils.
How accurate are the results from Bearing Capacity Calculator - Terzaghi Meyerhof?
All calculations use established mathematical formulas and are performed with high-precision arithmetic. Results are accurate to the precision shown. For critical decisions in finance, medicine, or engineering, always verify results with a qualified professional.
Is my data stored or sent to a server?
No. All calculations run entirely in your browser using JavaScript. No data you enter is ever transmitted to any server or stored anywhere. Your inputs remain completely private.