The thickness of the base plate is determined from the
- Aflexural strength of the plateCorrect
- Bshear strength of the plate
- Cbearing stength of the concrete pedestal
- Dpunching criteria
Solution
Concept
Thickness of Base Plate
Formula
t = √(6M / (fy · b))
Step-by-step solution
1. Calculate the critical bending moment (M) per unit width on the base plate. 2. Identify the yield strength of the steel (f\_y) and the width (b). 3. Substitute M, f\_y, and b into the formula t = √(6M / (f\_y · b)) to solve for the required plate thickness (t).
Explanation
The thickness of the base plate is calculated by determining the bending moment caused by upward pressure from the concrete pedestal and ensuring the plate has sufficient flexural (bending) strength to safely resist that moment without yielding or failing.
Shortcut
Remember: Base Plate Thickness = Bending (Flexural) Strength. Think of the base plate bending under pressure like a plank, so its thickness depends on its ability to resist bending (flexure).
Common mistake
Many students confuse determining the area of the base plate (which depends on the bearing strength of the concrete pedestal) with determining its thickness (which depends on the flexural strength of the plate).
Correct answer: A) flexural strength of the plate