Column Buckling Calculator
Euler critical buckling load.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Critical buckling load
- 987 kN
- Effective length
- 3 m
- Safe load (FoS 2)
- 493.5 kN
- In tonnes force
- 100.61
Quick answer
Euler buckling load depends on stiffness divided by the square of effective length.
Pcr = π²EI ÷ (KL)²
How to use the Column Buckling Calculator
- 1Enter the material modulus and section I.
- 2Enter the column length.
- 3Choose the end restraint condition.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Young's modulus200 GPa
- Second moment of area450 cm⁴
- Length3 m
- End conditionBoth ends pinned
Results
- Critical buckling load987 kN
- Effective length3 m
- Safe load (FoS 2)493.5 kN
- In tonnes force100.61
Frequently asked questions
Why does end condition matter so much?
Fixing both ends quarters the effective length and quadruples capacity.
Does Euler apply to short columns?
No — short columns fail by crushing, not buckling.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.