Calculate mounting of bracket for shelf

[Baskavoda]

If I am going to set up a shelf of let's say 1 meter on two brackets. How do I calculate the optimal placement from the edges of the shelf if considering an evenly distributed load from above? Regards Carl

 

[Matte_Nörden]

If I want to put up a shelf that is 1 meter wide on two brackets, how do I calculate the optimal placement from the edges of the shelf assuming an evenly distributed load from above? Regards, Carl

The brackets should be placed one-fifth of the shelf's length from the edge. In your case, this means a distance of 60cm between the brackets. This was discussed a while ago in the building physics forum. Take a look there for a more detailed explanation.

 

[KnockOnWood]

I think one should also consider the aesthetics.
It's not all about durability.

Don't you place hinges at about 1/7 from the edges?
I think that would work well for shelf brackets too.