In the SI system, the normal force, newton (N), is a mechanical quantity. The concept of normal force is needed to determine the strength of a material by determining the stress acting in the cross-sectional plane.

 

Of the different load types, the following types generates the so-called nominal force

1.  Pulling, where the force resistance demands pulling strength of the material.
     - normal force, perpendicular force against the reviewed surface
     - the pulled body may be long, the cross-sectional stress level determines the force
     - the force gets the nominal value of 1

 

2.  Compressing, where the force resistance demands compressing strength of the material.               - normal force, perpendicular force against the reviewed surface
      - the rod is short enough, the tension level determines the amount of force
      - the rod is long enough, buckling determines the amount of force
      - the force gets the nominal value of 1