Friction between rotating objects

In summary, the conversation discussed the calculation of friction between two objects rotating in place, specifically a plate rotating on top of a table. The suggestion was made to change to spherical coordinates and integrate over the surface, dividing the plate into concentric ring-shaped bits. The conversation ended with one person thanking the others for their assistance.
  • #1
Telanor
3
0
In physics, we learned about friction between one object sliding across another, but when we got to torque and angular velocity, etc, there was never any mention of how to calculate friction between 2 objects rotating in place. Say you have a plate on top of a table and it is rotating about the center of the plate. How would you calculate the friction between the plate and the table if the coefficient of friction is known?
 
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  • #2
change to spherical coordinates and integrate over the surface.
 
  • #3
malawi_glenn said:
change to spherical coordinates and integrate over the surface.

Yes … specifically, if you divide the plate into concentric ring-shaped bits, each bit of length 2πa will have the same behaviour under friction as a straight rod of the same mass and of length 2πa. :smile:
 
  • #4
Thank you guys for your help. I am going to see if I can figure out this problem I was working on now
 

1. What causes friction between rotating objects?

Friction between rotating objects is caused by the interaction of surface irregularities or microstructures on the two surfaces in contact. These irregularities create resistance, or friction, as the surfaces slide or rotate against each other.

2. How does the speed of rotation affect friction?

The speed of rotation can affect friction in two ways: first, the faster the rotation, the greater the amount of friction due to the increased force between the surfaces. Second, at extremely high speeds, the friction may actually decrease due to the formation of a lubricating layer of gas or liquid between the surfaces.

3. What are some factors that can affect the amount of friction between rotating objects?

Some factors that can affect the amount of friction between rotating objects include the nature and roughness of the surface materials, the speed and direction of rotation, the temperature and pressure of the environment, and the presence of any lubricants or contaminants on the surfaces.

4. Can friction between rotating objects be reduced or eliminated?

Friction between rotating objects cannot be completely eliminated, but it can be reduced through the use of lubricants, smooth and well-matched surface materials, and proper maintenance and care of the rotating components. In some cases, magnetic or air bearings can also be used to reduce friction.

5. How does friction between rotating objects affect the efficiency of machines?

Friction between rotating objects can have a significant impact on the efficiency of machines, as it can result in energy loss and wear on the components. In order to improve efficiency, engineers often design machines with bearings and other mechanisms to reduce friction and increase the lifespan of the machine.

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