Explaining Frictional Torque at the Axle

  • Thread starter Amar.alchemy
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    Axle Torque
In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of frictional torque and how it affects a rotating wheel. It is defined as the cross product of the radius of the axle and the frictional force. However, there is some confusion regarding the value of the radius and whether it can be taken as 0. It is clarified that real axles with friction have non-zero radii.
  • #1
Amar.alchemy
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Let us consider a wheel which rotates about an axle thorugh its center with an angular velociy [tex]\omega[/tex]0. After sometime it comes to rest due to the frictional torque at its axle.
Now, if we go by the defination of torque than it is defined as:
[tex]\tau[/tex]= r x F. Since the frictional torque is exerted along the axle, we can take the value of r as 0. Then there will not be any frictional torque. Kindly explain me??
 
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  • #2
Amar.alchemy said:
Since the frictional torque is exerted along the axle, we can take the value of r as 0.
No you can't. Real axles with friction have non-zero radii.
 
  • #3
ok so, Frictional Torque is equal to the cross product of radius of axle and frictional force... Thanks :-)
 

What is frictional torque at the axle?

Frictional torque at the axle is the resistance force that occurs when two surfaces come in contact with each other and one surface attempts to slide or roll over the other. This resistance force is caused by the roughness and irregularities of the surfaces, and it acts in the opposite direction of the motion, leading to a decrease in the rotational speed of the axle.

How is frictional torque at the axle calculated?

Frictional torque at the axle can be calculated using the formula T = μF, where T is the torque, μ is the coefficient of friction, and F is the normal force acting on the axle. The coefficient of friction depends on the nature of the surfaces in contact and their relative motion.

What factors affect the amount of frictional torque at the axle?

The amount of frictional torque at the axle is influenced by several factors, including the coefficient of friction between the surfaces, the amount of normal force acting on the axle, the speed of the rotation, and the roughness and condition of the surfaces. Other factors such as temperature, lubrication, and surface material can also affect the amount of frictional torque.

How does frictional torque affect the performance of a machine?

Frictional torque can have both positive and negative effects on the performance of a machine. On one hand, it can provide stability and control, such as in the case of a car's brakes. On the other hand, it can lead to energy losses and wear and tear on the machine's components, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, it is important for engineers to consider and minimize frictional torque in the design and operation of machines.

How can frictional torque be reduced?

There are several ways to reduce frictional torque at the axle, such as using lubricants, optimizing surface materials and textures, and reducing the speed of rotation. Other methods include using ball bearings or roller bearings, which can minimize the contact area between the surfaces, and designing the machine with proper alignment and balance to avoid unnecessary friction.

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