Calculate connection eccentricity from load-line offset and bolt-group geometry, then estimate the resulting eccentric moment and preliminary bolt-group properties.
| Parameter | Value | Unit | Meaning |
|---|
For a load acting at a perpendicular offset from the connection reference point, the eccentric moment is calculated as:
Where P is the applied load and e is the perpendicular eccentricity.
For a simplified symmetrical rectangular bolt group, the polar second moment used for preliminary moment-distribution screening can be obtained by summing each bolt's squared distance from the bolt-group centroid.
The calculator uses the entered row and column spacing to generate the bolt coordinates around the group centroid.
A simple average direct-load estimate can be calculated by dividing the applied load by the number of bolts.
This is only an average direct-load value. It does not represent the actual maximum bolt force when eccentric moment effects are present.
For a simplified elastic bolt-group model, the tangential force contribution from an applied moment can be estimated from each bolt's distance from the group centroid.
The direction and combination of these forces depend on the actual load direction and bolt-group geometry. This calculator does not perform a complete connection resistance check.
What does the Steel Connection Eccentricity Calculator calculate?
It calculates the load eccentricity, resulting moment and basic bolt-group geometry for a preliminary connection assessment.
How is eccentric moment calculated?
The basic relationship is M = P × e, where P is the applied load and e is its perpendicular offset from the connection reference point.
Why is eccentricity important?
An eccentric load produces a moment in addition to direct load, potentially causing uneven force distribution among connection bolts.
What is bolt-group J?
It is the simplified polar second moment of the bolt-group layout, calculated from the squared distances of the bolts from the group centroid.
Does this calculate the maximum bolt force?
No. It provides preliminary eccentricity, moment and bolt-group information. A complete bolt-force analysis requires the actual loading direction and appropriate connection-analysis method.
Can this be used for final connection design?
No. It is intended for preliminary engineering estimation and connection-layout assessment.