Question

A compressive load of 219 kN is resisted by a rectangular strut which has one side measuring 83 mm. If the stress in the strut is 164,909 kPa what is the length of the other side (or width) of the strut

Answer 1

Use σ = P/A with A = a·b. Convert units so they match:

σ = 164,909 kPa = 164.909 MPa = 164.909 N/mm²
P = 219 kN = 219,000 N
a = 83 mm

A = P/σ = 219000 / 164.909 ≈ 1328.9 mm²
b = A / a = 1328.9 / 83 ≈ 16.01 mm

Answer: approximately 16.0 mm.