Bench Height Checker
Checks the bench-height-to-burden stiffness ratio against backbreak and airblast guidance.
Enter Values
Before you rely on this: First-pass guide only. Verify safety-critical or regulated work against the relevant standards, your project requirements and a qualified professional.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the bench height and the burden.
- Press Calculate.
- Read the stiffness ratio and assessment.
How it works
Stiffness ratio = bench height ÷ burden. Below ~2 the bench is stiff and prone to backbreak and airblast; 3 or more is generally well-proportioned.
Worked example
10 m bench, 3 m burden. Ratio 3.3 — well-proportioned.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the stiffness ratio matter?
Low ratios concentrate energy and cause backbreak, airblast and poor fragmentation; the burden may need reducing.
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Cite this tool
Zerdly. (2026). Bench Height Checker. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/bench-height-checker/
Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.
All calculations run in your browser. Your inputs are never saved or transmitted.



