What axial compression load may be placed on a short timber post whose cross-sectional dimensions are 9.5 × 9.5 in. if the allowable unit compressive stress is 1100 psi?

Question

What axial compression load may be placed on a short timber post whose cross-sectional dimensions are 9.5 × 9.5 in. if the allowable unit compressive stress is 1100 psi?

Answer 1

The equation for stress (σ) is Force/Area. In this case we are given stress as 1100psi and the cross sectional area is 9.5*9.5 = 90.25 in². Transposing the above equation in terms of Force, F = σ*A = 1100*90.25 = 99,275 lbs.

Therefore the maximum load this post can carry is 99,275 lbs.