Kreuzquerschnitt

Kreuzquerschnitt is a term used in German to denote a cross-section, the shape obtained when a three-dimensional object is cut by a plane perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. It describes the form and size of the part of a structure or component that carries loads and transmits forces.

In engineering and geometry, the cross-section is essential for determining structural resistance and deformation. Key quantities are the cross-sectional area A, the position of the centroid, and the second moments of area (I_x, I_y, and, if needed, I_z) about the relevant axes. These values govern bending stiffness, buckling behavior, torsional response, and stress distribution under loads.

Common cross-section shapes include rectangular (width b, height h) with A = b·h and I_x = b·h^3/12, I_y = h·b^3/12; circular (diameter d) with A = πd^2/4 and I = πd^4/64; and more complex forms such as elliptic or hollow sections. The choice of cross-section is driven by strength, manufacturability, weight, and service conditions.

The term Kreuzquerschnitt can also refer to cruciform or cross-shaped cross-sections, formed by two or more rectangular arms intersecting at midlines. Such profiles are used in specialized components where a uniform transmission of load and torsional stiffness is required.

In practice, cross-sections are specified in drawings and used as the basis for calculations, design codes, and numerical simulations (e.g., finite element analysis) to predict performance under expected loading.