How to obtain Allowable Shear Stress

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the maximum allowable torque and shear stress for a 4340 shaft with a 30 diameter. The conversation also mentions using the tensile strength instead and the effect of heat treatment on SAE-4340 steel. The Machinery's Handbook is recommended as a resource for estimating tensile properties and relating steel hardness to heat treatment.
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  • #3
If not specified directly by your materials reference, a general rule of thumb is that the theoretical ratio between shear and tensile stress for a homogeneous, isotropic material is 0.577.
 
  • #4
you are looking in terms of yield strength, the max shear stress theory and max distortion energy theory help.

Max shear stress: Ssy=.5Sy
Distortion-Energy theory: Ssy=.577Sy
 
  • #5
Thanks everyone.
I get the answers 0.5X, right ^_^.

Btw, I wonder what's the effect of Heat Treament on SAE-4340/ any steel. for example Quenching.

What's the multiply factor on Yield and ultimate strength?
 
  • #6
If you look in Machinery's Handbook, there is a nice section relating steel hardness to a relatively accurate form of estimating tensile properties. When you heat treat something, usually a Rockwell or some other hardness is mentioned as a requirement.

In my latest copy (26th edition) it starts on page 473-474.

My company did some internal testing quite some time ago with a lot of different alloys and found a relatively good relationship between the two parameters. The Machinery's section is pretty good.
 

1. What is allowable shear stress?

Allowable shear stress is the maximum amount of shear stress that a material can withstand before it begins to deform or fail. It is typically measured in units of force per area, such as pounds per square inch (psi) or Newtons per square meter (N/m²).

2. How is allowable shear stress calculated?

Allowable shear stress is calculated by dividing the ultimate shear strength of the material by a safety factor. The ultimate shear strength is determined through experiments and testing, and the safety factor is typically determined based on the level of risk and potential consequences of failure.

3. What factors affect the allowable shear stress of a material?

The allowable shear stress of a material can be affected by various factors, including the type and structure of the material, the temperature and environment it is exposed to, and any pre-existing flaws or defects in the material.

4. How is allowable shear stress used in engineering and design?

Allowable shear stress is an important consideration in engineering and design, as it helps determine the appropriate size and strength of materials for a given application. Engineers must ensure that the shear stress on a material does not exceed its allowable limit to prevent failure or structural damage.

5. Can allowable shear stress be increased?

In some cases, the allowable shear stress of a material can be increased by using reinforcements or by altering the design or composition of the material. However, this should only be done after thorough analysis and consideration of the potential risks and consequences.

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