Enter the strength of materials, total area, safety factor, and length of the bridge into the calculator to determine the maximum load capacity. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.

Bridge Law Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the maximum load capacity of a bridge. 

LC = (S * A * F) / L

Variables:

  • LC is the maximum load capacity (tons)
  • S is the strength of materials used (tons per square foot)
  • A is the total area of the bridge (square feet)
  • F is the safety factor (unitless, typically ranges from 1.5 to 3)
  • L is the length of the bridge (feet)

To calculate the maximum load capacity of a bridge, multiply the strength of the materials used by the total area of the bridge, then multiply the result by the safety factor. Divide this result by the length of the bridge. This will give the maximum load capacity that the bridge can safely handle according to the Bridge Law.

What is a Bridge Law?

A Bridge Law is a legal regulation or legislation that governs the construction, maintenance, and safety standards of bridges. It includes guidelines for design, materials used, load capacity, and inspection procedures to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the bridge. These laws are typically enforced by transportation or infrastructure departments within a government. Violations of bridge laws can result in penalties, fines, or legal action.

How to Calculate Bridge Law?

The following steps outline how to calculate the maximum load capacity (LC) using the Bridge Law formula:

  1. First, determine the strength of materials used (S) in tons per square foot.
  2. Next, determine the total area of the bridge (A) in square feet.
  3. Next, determine the safety factor (F) which is typically a unitless value ranging from 1.5 to 3.
  4. Finally, determine the length of the bridge (L) in feet.
  5. After gathering all the variables, use the formula LC = (S * A * F) / L to calculate the maximum load capacity.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge:

Strength of materials used (S) = 5 tons per square foot

Total area of the bridge (A) = 1000 square feet

Safety factor (F) = 2

Length of the bridge (L) = 200 feet