Pier Column Slenderness Calculator

Enter geometry, length, and end conditions for piers. See slenderness ratios, radii, and section properties. Download tables in CSV or PDF for reporting needs.

Tip: Keep units consistent. Slenderness is dimensionless.

Calculator

Units convert internally for consistent calculations.
Choose the pier column cross-section type.
Clear height or buckling length segment.
Preset updates K unless Custom is selected.
Dimensionless factor based on end restraints.
Used for Euler Pcr and Fe estimates.
Use Custom preset to edit freely.
Optional, for utilization P/Pcr.
Default is 22 when blank/invalid.
Section dimensions
Enter dimensions in mm.
Fields shown depend on selected shape.
After calculation, export buttons appear in the results panel.

Formula used

The calculator evaluates slenderness using the radius of gyration r and the effective length K·L. Governing slenderness is the larger of the two principal axes.

  • r = √(I / A)
  • λ = (K·L) / r
  • Pcr = π²·E·Imin / (K·L)²
  • Fe = π²·E / λ²

Screening limits differ by design standard. Adjust the custom limit for your code.

How to use this calculator

  1. Select unit system, shape, length, and end condition.
  2. Confirm K, pick material (or enter custom E).
  3. Enter section dimensions and optional axial load.
  4. Click Calculate to show results above the form.
  5. Use Download CSV or Download PDF to export.

Example data table

Case Shape Dimensions L K E Governing λ (approx.) Notes
1 Circular solid D = 800 mm 6.0 m 1.0 25 GPa ≈ 26.0 Intermediate; consider second-order effects.
2 Rectangular solid b = 600 mm, h = 900 mm 7.5 m 0.7 25 GPa ≈ 20.2 Often treated as stocky for screening checks.
3 Circular hollow Do = 900 mm, t = 50 mm 8.0 m 1.0 200 GPa ≈ 33.5 Higher E raises Pcr; λ depends on geometry.
Example values are indicative and may differ from your project conditions.
Built for practical preliminary checks; always verify against your governing code.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.