Calculation for Uniform Loads
Calculate the estimated thickness of ACRYLITE® acrylic required to support a uniform pressure load over a rectangular flat plate. The calculator assumes simply four-sided supported edges and small deflections.
Examples for the use of this calculator include:
- Selecting the correct thickness for an overhead light fixture, skylight or decorative panel so the center of the panel does not start to deflect or sag over time.
- To account for snow or water pressure on a skylight or roof panel, as well as wind force on a window or barrier.
Assumptions
- Sheet is simply supported on all four edges.
- Load is uniformly distributed over entire sheet.
- Dimensions are open area; do not include supported areas.
- Max allowable continuous stress < tensile strength to prevent stress crazing and creep failure.
- Results most accurate for deflections less than half of the sheet thickness. Request the Extended Calculator at the bottom of this page for additional Technical References.
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Request extended calculation
Please fill out the form below to request an Excel version of the Uniform Load Calculator. The Excel version provides a Technical Reference for the calculations and can be printed for project records. It can also calculate the thickness requirements of additional products like ACRYLITE® Resist 45.
Any Questions?
For questions or unique applications, please contact our Technical Center:
+1-207-490-4230