Lateral Strain (Poisson Effect)
Lateral Strain (Poisson Effect)
When a material is stretched it gets thinner sideways; Poisson’s ratio quantifies this coupling.
The lateral strain is ε_lat = −ν·ε_axial. where ν is Poisson’s ratio and ε_axial the axial strain.
Inputs
nu := 0.33=0.33
eps_axial := 0.002=2e-03
The lateral strain opposes the axial strain.
eps_lat := -nu·eps_axial=-6.6e-04
Results
The negative sign shows the section contracts as it stretches. This lateral strain matters for press fits, seals and multi-axial stress states.
Assumptions & limitations
- Linear-elastic, isotropic material.
- Uniaxial stress.
- Small strains.