Amount of torque required to move truck

[fiazo1]

I am trying to determine the amount of torque at the drive shaft required to move a truck of mass m from rest, provided that coefficient of friction is sufficiently high so no slipping occurs, and it operates in an ideal environment, with no friction loss, drag etc.

Based solely on real world observations, I believe that there a vehicle of mass m won't move unless the engine provides a certain amount torque T. I have attempted to relate the two using T = (m)(a)(wheel radius) but this won't work because making a=0 would not yield any values and if (a) is made arbitrarily small, results will vary.

I am looking for a simple relationship between torque and mass of truck, with no particular amount of acceleration, just as long as it begins to move. Thanks

 

[Simon Bridge]

You don't have enough information - consider: why can't you move the truck just pushing on it?

 

[fiazo1]

I see, friction. What type of friction would this be? And the formula?

 

[Simon Bridge]

Well the truck is stationary - so... static perhaps?

Do the tires have to distort as the wheels rotate? Is the mechanical friction in the machinery of the truck? The bearings? The diff? the gearbox? Is the lubricant more slippery after it has heated up a bit? What other sorts of energy losses can you think of?

What your need to move the truck is power.
The relationship between power and torque can be interesting - technically, a low torque engine just has to operate at higher revs. However, if it doesn't have the power it cannot move the truck.

What you've taken on is not a simple calculation - most of the things you want to know need to be measured.

 

[PJC01]

I understand your goal of finding a simple relationship between torque and mass of a truck. However, it is important to note that there are many variables at play when it comes to the movement of a truck, including the coefficient of friction, environmental factors, and the design of the truck itself. Therefore, it is not possible to provide a single, definitive answer to the amount of torque required to move a truck.

In order to accurately determine the torque required, a detailed analysis of the specific truck in question would need to be conducted. This would involve considering factors such as the engine power, gear ratios, and wheel size, as well as the weight and design of the truck. Additionally, real world testing would likely be necessary in order to account for any unexpected variables.

Furthermore, it is important to note that torque alone is not the only factor that affects the movement of a truck. Other factors such as traction, weight distribution, and aerodynamics also play a significant role. Therefore, it is not possible to provide a simple relationship between torque and mass that can be applied universally to all trucks.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to seek a simple relationship between torque and mass, it is important to consider the complexity and variability of real world situations. I would recommend conducting a thorough analysis and testing in order to accurately determine the amount of torque required to move a specific truck in a given environment.