Stress Calculator
Calculate stress step by step: σ = F ÷ A.
In short
Formula: σ = F ÷ A. N ÷ mm² = MPa.
Normal stress
100 MPa
- Pascals
- 100,000,000 Pa
- psi
- 14,503.77 psi
- Type
- Tension
What this calculator does
Calculate stress step by step: σ = F ÷ A. Worked example, questions and limitations included.
Use it to turn Axial force, Cross-sectional area into a checked result you can compare, copy, or rerun with different assumptions.
The page shows the formula, a numeric worked example, and the assumptions that affect this mechanical calculation.
Inputs and what they mean
- Axial force
- — number value.
- Cross-sectional area
- — number value.
How to use it
- Enter each value in the unit shown next to the box (use the unit converter first if your numbers are in other units).
- Check the breakdown to see every intermediate step.
- Read the limitations before relying on the result.
Formula
Positive force means tension; negative means compression.
Area must be above zero.
Assumes stress is uniform over the section.
σ = F ÷ A. N ÷ mm² = MPa.
Inputs used: Axial force, Cross-sectional area.
Worked example
10 kN on 100 mm²
- σ = 10,000 ÷ 100 = 100 MPa.
Reading the result
The headline figure is the main answer. Any breakdown underneath shows the parts that make it up, so you can check the working and see what changes when you adjust an input.
Limitations and assumptions
- Uniform axial stress only.
- Ignores stress concentrations at holes and notches.
- No safety factor applied.
- Results are estimates for planning and learning. Real designs, installations and bids must be checked by a qualified, licensed professional against the codes that apply where you work.
- The result depends on the values you enter for this stress calculator; it does not supply missing rates, rules, prices, dates, or assumptions for you.
Common questions
Is the result safe?
Compare it with the material's allowable stress, which includes a safety factor from your design code. This calculator does not choose one.
Why N/mm²?
One newton per square millimetre equals one megapascal, which keeps engineering numbers manageable. Check the formula, example, and limitations on this page before using the result for a real mechanical decision.
Does this work for bending?
No. Bending produces varying stress; use the bending stress calculator.
How do I use the Stress Calculator?
Enter the required values for Axial force, Cross-sectional area. The calculator applies the formula on this page and shows the main result with any supporting breakdown so you can check the arithmetic.
What formula does the Stress Calculator use?
σ = F ÷ A. N ÷ mm² = MPa. The visible formula section above lists the calculation path and the edge cases the page handles, so the result can be checked without relying on the form alone.
Can the Stress Calculator be used for exact decisions?
Use it as a calculation aid, not as a substitute for checking the underlying rule, contract, policy, or professional advice that applies to your situation. When a result depends on local rules, personal details, prices, or dates, enter those values yourself and confirm them before acting.
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Calculate mechanical power step by step: P = W ÷ t, or P = F × v.