Effective Length
Definition
The equivalent length of a column with pinned ends that would buckle at the same load. Calculated as Le = K×L, where K is the effective length factor depending on end conditions and L is the actual length.
Practical Note
K = 0.5 for fixed-fixed, 0.7 for fixed-pinned, 1.0 for pinned-pinned, and 2.0 for cantilever (fixed-free). Use conservative K values in design.