σ = F/A

Normal stress from force and area

The same force creates higher stress in a smaller section.

MINTSI
01

Inputs

Average stress normal to the section.

Tension or compression force through centroid.

Net area normal to force; subtract holes.

02

Result

Select a target and calculate.

Calculation

σ = F / A

The same force creates higher stress in a smaller section.

Understand the inputs
  • Normal stress σAverage stress normal to the section.
  • Axial force FTension or compression force through centroid.
  • Load-bearing area ANet area normal to force; subtract holes.
Example

10 kN / 100 mm² = 100 MPa.

Assumptions and limits

Concentric, uniformly distributed load; notches and bending are excluded.

Sources