Surface pressure

Surface pressure is an essential term in mechanical engineering that describes the force per unit area that acts on a contact surface between two components or materials. This physical quantity is crucial for the dimensioning of components and the calculation of their load-bearing capacity.

Factors influencing the surface pressure

Various factors have a significant influence on surface pressure. These include the force applied, the geometry of the contact surface and the material properties of the components involved. A higher force or a smaller contact surface typically leads to increased surface pressure.

Calculation of the surface pressure

The surface pressure is usually calculated by dividing the applied force by the contact area. Mathematically, it can be expressed by the formula P = F / A, where P is the surface pressure, F is the applied force and A is the contact area.

Technical significance and areas of application

In practice, surface pressure is used to ensure that components and materials can withstand the mechanical requirements. It is particularly relevant in the design of fasteners such as screws, bolts or seals, where high pressures can occur and precise calculation is essential.

Surface pressure and material strength

The choice of materials is decisive for the design, taking into account the surface pressure. Materials with higher strength can withstand higher pressures and are therefore suitable for applications with high surface pressure. This selection contributes to the durability and safety of the designed machines.