1. What is Pipe Buckling?

Pipe buckling occurs when compressive axial loads exceed the critical buckling load, causing sudden lateral deflection. The Euler buckling formula calculates the critical load for long, slender columns with pinned ends.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Euler buckling formula:

Where:

• \( P_{cr} \) — Critical buckling load (N)
• \( E \) — Modulus of elasticity (Pa)
• \( I \) — Moment of inertia (m⁴)
• \( L \) — Length of pipe between supports (m)

Explanation: The equation shows that buckling load is proportional to stiffness (EI) and inversely proportional to the square of length.

3. Importance of Buckling Calculation

Details: Calculating critical buckling load is essential for structural integrity, preventing catastrophic failures in pipelines, columns, and other slender structures under compression.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter modulus of elasticity in Pascals, moment of inertia in meters⁴, and length in meters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What end conditions does this formula assume?
A: This formula is for pinned-pinned (simply supported) ends. Other end conditions require different formulas.

Q2: What's the difference between local and global buckling?
A: Global buckling affects the entire member length, while local buckling involves deformation of individual cross-section elements.

Q3: How does pipe diameter affect buckling?
A: Larger diameter pipes typically have higher moment of inertia (I), increasing buckling resistance.

Q4: What safety factors should be used?
A: Typical safety factors range from 1.5 to 3.0 depending on application and regulations.

Q5: Does this apply to all pipe materials?
A: Yes, as long as the material remains elastic (no yielding occurs before buckling).