Find Pressure from Force: Calculate PSI for 400lbs

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the pressure generated by a force of 400 lbs in a punching scenario, with considerations of both static and dynamic loading conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that pressure can be calculated by dividing the force (400 lbs) by the surface area over which it is applied, providing an example of a 1/4 sq. inch punch resulting in 1,600 psi.
  • Another participant agrees with the initial calculation but introduces the idea that the type of loading (static vs. impact) affects the calculation, proposing that in an impact scenario, stress should be calculated using the formula Stress = ma/A.
  • A further contribution questions the assumptions about the loading conditions, suggesting that if an arbor press is used, the impact speed may be negligible, while noting that using a gun would complicate the scenario due to potential deformation and heat production.
  • Another participant argues that according to Newton's second law, the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration leads to the same pressure calculation, stating that it does not matter whether the loading is static or dynamic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the impact of loading conditions on the pressure calculation, indicating that there is no consensus on the best approach to take in this scenario.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the type of loading (static vs. impact) and the specific conditions under which the force is applied, which may affect the calculations.

infraray
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If I have something that can lift 400lbs. How would I determine how much pressure this could generate if used in a punch type situation. I would be punching a hole.
 
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If I understand the question correctly, you just divide your 400 lbs. by the surface area over which it is applied. For instance, a 1/4 sq. inch punch with 400 lbs behind it would exert 1,600 psi.
 
Yeah, that was exactly what I was wanting to know. I don't know why I was thinking it was more difficult. Thanks.
 
Quite welcome, I'm sure. :smile:
 
Danger said:
Quite welcome, I'm sure. :smile:


Actually, that depends on the kind of loading (i.e. static or impact).
It is true that to solve for stress, one only needs to divide F/A.
However, in an impact situation, you force is actually mass times acceleration. Therefore,

Stress = ma/A

(I think) :biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin:
 
The wording of the question sort of led me to think that infraray was considering the use of an arbour press or such-like, so I assumed the impact speed to be negligible. It would be a little more complicated if he were using a gun of some kind, because there'd probably be deformation of the tool head and more heat production. That's a little out of my league.
 
Actually acording to Newtons second law of motion F=ma and their for ma/A=F/A so it does not mater either way
 

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