Mechanical Specification

Margins of Safety

Domain(s)
Space
System(s)
Satellite
Specialty
MECH
Profile(s)
CH, COMM, EXP, PS, RP, SMAC
Specification Type
Recommendation

Margin of Safety (MS) is defined as MS = 1/R – 1, where R is the ratio of the factored applied load (or stress) to the allowable load (or stress) and shall be greater than 0.

Picture 1

Margin of Safety Calculation

The specific failure theory used to determine the allowable load or stress shall be referenced in all margins of safety calculations. Strength margins of safety for metals shall be determined at yield and ultimate load levels. Margins of safety for composites shall be based on ultimate.