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Mechanical & Civil Engineering

Mohr's Circle Principal Stresses Calculator

Compute principal stresses and maximum shear stress using Mohr's circle from a 2D stress state.

Your inputs

Change any value to update the result instantly.

Mechanical & Civil Engineering
MPa
MPa
MPa

Max principal stress σ1

112.426 MPa

Min principal stress σ2

27.574 MPa

Max shear stress

42.426 MPa

Average stress

70 MPa

What this calculator does

Mohr's Circle Principal Stresses Calculator: Applies the standard mechanics-of-materials relationship for this load case so a student can see how the stress, strain or deflection follows from the geometry and the load.

What your result means

The headline figure tells you how hard the material is being worked, or how much it moves, under the load you entered. Compare it with the allowable value for your material and required factor of safety.

Formula and working

σ1,2 = (σx+σy)/2 ± √(((σx-σy)/2)² + τxy²)

  1. 1

    Collect the inputs

    Normal stress σx = 100 MPa; Normal stress σy = 40 MPa; Shear stress τxy = 30 MPa

  2. 2

    Apply the formula

    σ1,2 = (σx+σy)/2 ± √(((σx-σy)/2)² + τxy²)

  3. 3

    Result

    Max principal stress σ1 = 112.426 MPa

Frequently asked questions

Symbols and assumptions

sx
Normal stress σx (MPa)
sy
Normal stress σy (MPa)
txy
Shear stress τxy (MPa)
  • The material is homogeneous, isotropic and loaded within its linear-elastic range.
  • Inputs are entered in a consistent unit system, as labelled on each field.

Sources and review

Reviewed 2026-09-22 · Next review 2027-09-22

  • This is an educational estimate for learning and checking, not a design deliverable.
  • Real design must follow the governing code or standard for your jurisdiction and be reviewed and signed off by a qualified engineer.
  • Safety factors, load combinations and material certification are the responsibility of the designer, not of this page.

Important limitation

This is an educational estimate based only on the values and formula shown. Verify current rates, rules, units, and professional standards before relying on the result. It is not personalized financial or investment advice.

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