The buckling load factor (BLF) is the factor of safety against buckling or the ratio of the buckling loads to the applied loads. The following table illustrates the interpretation of possible BLF values:
|
BLF Value (factor of safety) |
Buckling Status |
Notes |
|
1 < BLF |
Buckling not predicted |
The applied loads are less than the estimated critical loads. Buckling is not expected.. |
|
0 < BLF < 1 |
Buckling predicted |
The applied loads exceed the estimated critical loads. Buckling is expected. |
|
BLF = 1 |
Buckling predicted |
The applied loads are exactly equal to the estimated critical loads. Buckling is expected. |
|
BLF = -1 |
Buckling not predicted |
The model is in compression and buckling is not expected. . However, buckling will be expected if you if you multiply all loads by the negative BLF. For example, if you apply a tensile force on a bar, the BLF should be negative. |
|
-1 < BLF < 0 |
Buckling not predicted |
Buckling is predicted if you reverse all loads. |
|
BLF < -1 |
Buckling not predicted |
Buckling is not expected even if you reverse all loads. |
To calculate the buckling load(s) for a mode, multiply all applied loads by the BLF for that mode. For example, suppose that you applied the following loads:
a force of 500 lbs on face 1, and
a pressure of 250 psi on faces 2 and 3
and the buckling load factor (factor of safety) for mode 1 is calculated to be 2.3, then buckling in mode 1 will occur if you apply:
a force of 500 X 2.3 = 1150 lbs on face 1, and
a pressure of 250 X 2.3 = 575 psi on faces 2 and 3
Thermal Effects for Buckling Studies