How Power Screws Work - Explained with Illustrations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the workings of power screws, with participants seeking clarification and illustrations to understand the concept better. The scope includes theoretical explanations and potential applications in mechanical design.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests information and illustrations on how a power screw works.
  • Another participant questions whether the inquiry pertains to the propeller of a ship.
  • A participant suggests that the principle of a power screw is similar to that of a regular screw, describing it as a wedge and asking for more specific details on what is being sought.
  • One reply elaborates on the concept by comparing it to an inclined plane in water, discussing the forces involved and mentioning the possibility of a "stall" angle affecting the axial force produced.
  • A participant clarifies that they believe the original question refers to a linear actuator type of power screw.
  • Another participant expresses a willingness to share notes on power screws from their Machine Design studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the specific type of power screw being discussed, with multiple interpretations presented. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact nature of the inquiry.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of the original question, as well as assumptions about the type of power screw being referenced, which may affect the responses provided.

stan
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hi

does anyone knows how a power screw works, illustrations would be helpful..
thanks


ss
 
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It's the same principle as a regular screw...a wedge. What are you looking for?
 
If you're talking about say the propeller of a ship, then imagine an inclined plane sitting in a body of water. Then, just move it straight up through the water. The water will exert a force on the plane perpendicular to the plane. There will be two components of that force, one being in the x direction, a thurst load wanting to push the plane horizontally through the water.

Just note that this is very simplified, I'm sure there are other effects, and there is probably a "stall" angle where for a given rpm, and angle, the screw won't want to produce any axial force (although I would think you could go with a higher angle on a screw than just a straight propeller). Anyways...
 
I think Stan is referring to a linear actuator type of power screw.
 
Last edited:
OOOOoooo, power SCREW, haha. I have like a week and halfs worth of Machine Design notes on Power Screws somewhere at home. I'll look later for them
 

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