Parameter sensitivityNo design resistance
Bearing Capacity
Calculator
Run one declared idealized equation using parameters supplied and verified by a geotechnical professional.
Not an allowable bearing pressure
The divided result is arithmetic sensitivity only. Settlement, groundwater, layering, eccentricity, inclination, local/global stability, seismic effects, and the governing design format remain outside the method.
Who it's for: geotechnical and structural engineers spot-checking bearing-capacity arithmetic at construction documents, after the design parameters are already established.
Ultimate result ÷ entered divisor
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not a design resistance
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Before you rely on this result
Have a geotechnical professional confirm the method, parameters, units, geometry, drainage basis, and entered divisor for this sensitivity run.
How to use this calculator
1
Establish the ground model
A geotechnical professional must derive parameters and choose the applicable analysis.
2
Enter the idealized parameters
Use matching characteristic/design/allowable conventions as selected outside the worksheet.
3
Enter the divisor
The worksheet does not choose a safety or partial-factor format.
4
Complete settlement and stability design
Do not use this result alone for foundation sizing.
The formula
Declared Vesic-style sensitivity: qu = cNcsc + γDfNqsq + 0.5γBNγsγ; displayed result = qu ÷ entered divisor.
Worked example
Example
Entered c=0, φ=30°, γ=18 kN/m³, B=2 m, Df=1 m, strip shape, and divisor 3 produce about 245 kPa as a sensitivity result.
When this estimate will be off
- Idealized homogeneous bearing failure equation only.
- No parameter selection or validation, groundwater, layering, settlement, eccentricity, inclination, seismic, or adjacent-foundation effects.
- The divided result is not allowable bearing pressure, design resistance, or approval.
Frequently asked questions
A common mistake: Idealized homogeneous bearing failure equation only.
No. Only the responsible geotechnical/structural design process can establish the project value and its conditions.
Sources
- Selected geotechnical method and project report — must establish parameters, factors, and applicability
This free Bearing Capacity Calculator is built and maintained by DataDrivenAEC, using the relevant codes and standards. It does not substitute for professional judgment.