Overturning Safety Factor

Compute overturning safety factor FS from resisting and overturning moments.

Inputs

Formula

FS = Mresist / Moverturn
Usually FS≥1.5; seismic needs separate combination.
E_aoverturning FS
Overturning Safety Factor schematic

Fundamentals

Compute overturning safety factor FS from resisting and overturning moments.

This tool computes Overturning Safety Factor from the formula: FS = Mresist / Moverturn

History

Soil and structural mechanics were systematised in the 19th century, supporting modern civil design.

Engineering applications

Used for retaining, foundation and structural member design.

Glossary

Resisting momentInput parameter
Overturning momentInput parameter
Overturn FSOutput result

How to use

  1. Fill in Resisting moment, Overturning moment in the Inputs section (watch the unit on each field).
  2. Click Calculate; the tool evaluates the formula shown above.
  3. Read Overturn FS in the results area.

Formula · Worked Example · Knowledge

Formula

核心计算关系:FS = Mresist / Moverturn

输入变量:

  • Resisting moment Mresist — kN·m
  • Overturning moment Moverturn — kN·m

输出结果:

  • Overturn FS FS

假设/适用:Earth pressure uses Rankine/Coulomb active assumptions; passive & surcharge handled separately.

Worked Example

根据公式 FS = Mresist / Moverturn,取 Resisting moment = 500 kN·m;Overturning moment = 200 kN·m。

代入计算得:Overturn FS = 2.5。

Key Points

  • Earth pressure uses Rankine/Coulomb active assumptions; passive & surcharge handled separately.
  • Check both strength and stability (overturning, sliding).
  • Support reactions from static equilibrium; continuous structures need force/displacement method.

Parameters

Inputs

ParameterSymbolUnitDefault
Resisting moment (kN·m)MresistkN·m500
Overturning moment (kN·m)MoverturnkN·m200

Outputs

ResultSymbolUnit
Overturn FSFS

Applications

  • Simply-supported/cantilever reactions
  • Structural equilibrium analysis
  • Shear & moment distribution

FAQ

What formula does this tool use?
This tool computes per ISO / AGMA / ASME standard formulas: FS = Mresist / Moverturn
How accurate are the results?
Results match input precision, based on SI units and common engineering approximations; for critical duty re-check with a safety factor.
Where is it used?
Simply-supported/cantilever reactions