What is the self-locking condition for a wedge?

A wedge is self-locking when the wedge angle (α) is less than or equal to the friction angle (ρ), meaning tan(α) ≤ μ.

How does friction affect the force-amplification ratio?

Friction reduces the force-amplification ratio. The ideal ratio is 1/tan(α), whereas with friction it becomes 1/tan(α+ρ).

Can I calculate the actual output force?

Yes, by entering an optional input force (F_in), the calculator will output the resulting force (F_out) based on the calculated ratio.

What is the friction angle (ρ)?

The friction angle is the angle whose tangent is the friction coefficient, calculated as ρ = arctan(μ).

What happens if the wedge is not self-locking?

If the wedge is not self-locking, it is reversible, meaning the wedge may slip back out when the input force is removed.

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Wedge Angle Force Calculator

Calculate the force-amplification ratio and self-locking condition of a wedge mechanism. Ideal M = 1/tan(α), with friction M = 1/tan(α+ρ) where ρ = arctan(μ). Self-locking when α ≤ ρ (i.e. tan(α) ≤ μ).

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10° wedge, μ=0.1, ideal

M = 1/tan(10°) = 5.6713. ρ = arctan(0.1) = 5.7106°. tan(α)=0.1763 > μ=0.1 → not self-locking.

{"result":"Ideal force ratio M = 1/tan(α) = 1/tan(10°) = 5.6713. Friction angle ρ = arctan(0.1) = 5.7106°. tan(α) = 0.1763 > μ = 0.1 → not self-locking (reversible).","metadata":{"input":{"wedgeAngle":10,"frictionCoeff":0.1,"mode":"ideal"},"result":{"forceRatio":5.6713,"tanAlpha":0.1763,"frictionAngle":5.7106,"frictionAngleUnit":"°","selfLocking":false,"mode":"ideal"}}}

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Wedge Angle α (°)numberRequiredFriction Coefficient μnumberRequiredFriction ModelselectOptionalInput Force F_in (N)numberOptionalOptional. If provided, the output force F_out = F_in × force ratio.Decimal PlacesnumberOptional

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Wedge Angle Force Calculator

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Examples

1. Evaluating a Self-Locking Wedge Clamp

2. Calculating Force Amplification for a Wedge Jack

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