Shelf Load Capacity Calculator

Formula

To calculate the Shelf Load Capacity:

\[ \text{LC} = \frac{\text{MS} \times \text{W} \times \text{T}^2}{8 \times \text{L}} \]

Where:

\( \text{LC} \) is the load capacity (pounds)
\( \text{MS} \) is the material strength (pounds per square inch, PSI)
\( \text{W} \) is the shelf width (inches)
\( \text{T} \) is the shelf thickness (inches)
\( \text{L} \) is the shelf length (inches)

What is Shelf Load Capacity?

Shelf load capacity is the maximum weight that a shelf can support without failing. It is determined by the material properties, such as strength and elasticity, as well as the dimensions of the shelf, including its length, width, and thickness. Understanding the load capacity is crucial for safety and to prevent shelf collapse, which can lead to damage of stored items and potential injury.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Material Strength \( \text{MS} \) = 5000 PSI
Shelf Width \( \text{W} \) = 12 inches
Shelf Thickness \( \text{T} \) = 1 inch
Shelf Length \( \text{L} \) = 48 inches

Step 1: Calculate the shelf load capacity:

\[ \text{LC} = \frac{5000 \times 12 \times 1^2}{8 \times 48} = \frac{60000}{384} = 156.25 \text{ pounds} \]

So, the Shelf Load Capacity is 156.25 pounds.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Material Strength \( \text{MS} \) = 4000 PSI
Shelf Width \( \text{W} \) = 10 inches
Shelf Thickness \( \text{T} \) = 1.5 inches
Shelf Length \( \text{L} \) = 36 inches

Step 1: Calculate the shelf load capacity:

\[ \text{LC} = \frac{4000 \times 10 \times 1.5^2}{8 \times 36} = \frac{90000}{288} = 312.5 \text{ pounds} \]

So, the Shelf Load Capacity is 312.5 pounds.