Basic differences among Short Column & Long Column

Several types of columns are utilized in structures. This article provides the detail information on how to differentiate among the short column and long column.

Definition of Short Column:

If the ratio of a column's effective length to its lowest lateral dimension does not surpasses 12, it is known as a short column.

Definition of Long Column:

If the ratio of the effective length of a column to its lowest lateral dimension surpasses 12, it is known as a long column.

Variation among Short Column And Long Column:

Short Column
1. The ratio of the effective length to its lowest lateral dimension remains below 12.
Long Column
1. The ratio of the effective length to its lowest lateral dimension remains higher than 12.

Short Column
2. The slenderness of the short column remains under 45.
Long Column
2. The slenderness of the long column remains higher than 45.

Short Column
3. Less radius of gyration.
Long Column
3. The higher radius of gyration.

Also Read: A good construction document on design of reinforced concrete columns

Short Column
4. The load-bearing strength of the short column is higher as compared to the long column.
Long Column
4. The load-bearing strength is fewer as compared to a short column of the similar cross-sectional area.

Short Column
5. Greater than a long column and highly recommended.
Long Column
5. Weaker than short column and normally not recommended.

Short Column
6. The short column is susceptible to compressive stress.
Long Column
6. Long column is susceptible to buckling stress.

Short Column
7. Mechanical failure mostly happens because of shearing.
Short Column
7. Long columns are susceptible to fail because of buckling.