Linear elastic member
Axial response
Inputs
Positive = tension; negative = compression.
Uniform area, away from local load effects.
Unloaded gauge length of the member.
Linear-elastic material modulus.
Results
Average normal stressσ
10
Elastic strainε
50
Ideal length changeΔL
0.05
σ = F / A; ε = σ / E; ΔL = FL / AE
A first-pass number, not a code check, certification, or approval. Read the method and its limits below. What this is and is not.
Nearby: Beam deflection & reactions · Elastic stability · Solid-shaft torsion · Baseline L10 life
Method
Formula, when it applies, and when it does not
Inspect average stress, elastic strain, and ideal length change for a prismatic member under axial load.
σ = F / A; ε = σ / E; ΔL = FL / AE
When
- Uniform cross-section
- Axial loading
- Linear-elastic response
Don’t
- Average stress is a simplified measure; do not apply it at a local load introduction, notch, or connection without a suitable model.