How to Calculate Surface Pressure

Surface pressure calculation determines force area for an individual unit. In numerical terms, Force (F) divided by Area squared (A) equals Surface Pressure (P). Blaise Pascal, the French physician and philosopher, formulated the calculation as a way to gauge air pressure. Surface pressure may measure the weight of an object positioned directly on the facade or even the force of air pressed against an exterior. Calculating surface pressure is a simple and straightforward proposition, assuming you have the proper numerical factors for carrying out the equation.

Determine the force (F) of the object. The force is typically a direct measurement in pounds or kilograms upon the surface area.

Determine the area (A) of the surface. Multiply the total area by itself -- or area times area.

Divide F by A to equal the total Surface Pressure (P).