Calculating Minimum Thickness for Aluminum Alloy Tube Supporting Steel Rod

In summary, the problem involves determining the minimum thickness of an aluminum alloy tube that is used to support a steel rod, given the maximum deflection of the loaded end must be limited to 0.40 mm. There are two dimensional changes to consider: the steel bar will stretch under tension and the aluminum tube will contract under compression. The length increase of the steel rod must be subtracted from the 0.4 mm to determine the minimum thickness of the aluminum tube. To solve this problem, one must use the appropriate stress/strain relationship.
  • #1
mit_hacker
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(Q) An aluminum alloy (E=73GPa) tube A with an outer diameter of 75mm is used to support a 25-m-diameter steel (E=210GPa) rod B, as shown (in the attachement). Determine the minimum thickness t required for the tube if the maximum deflection of the loaded end must be limited to 0.40 mm.

I understand if the length of the working puts you off. In that case, can someone please tell me:

(a) What deformation compatibility equation to use?
(b) How is it that for the steel, the load is 35 kN and the length, area and extension are all given? What I mean is that if we calculate the Young's Modulus using those figures, it does not come out to be 200 GPa. In that case, what force do we use?
(c)What is the force on each of the aluminum alloy bars?
 

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  • #2
The total displacement of the loaded end of the steel bar is to be limited to 0.4 mm.

Excluding the deflection of the horizontal bar, there are two dimensional changes to consider: 1) the steel bar will stretch under tension, which will include the 35 kN load and its own weight, and 2) the contraction of the Al tube(s) under compression. One has to determined the length increase in the steel rod and subtract that from the 0.4 mm, and that result will be used to determine the minimum thickness of the Al tube using the appropriate stress/strain relationship.

This appears to be a homework problem, thus it should be posted in the Homework forums.
 
  • #3


To calculate the minimum thickness required for the aluminum alloy tube, we can use the following formula:

t = (3FL^3)/(8EI)

Where:
t = minimum thickness
F = maximum load (35 kN)
L = length of the tube (25 m)
E = Young's Modulus (73 GPa)

To answer your questions, the deformation compatibility equation that can be used is the one mentioned above. This equation takes into account the maximum load, length, and Young's Modulus to determine the minimum thickness required for the tube.

For the steel rod, the load of 35 kN is given as the maximum load that the tube must support. The length, area, and extension are given to provide information about the material properties of the steel rod. The Young's Modulus of 210 GPa is the material property of the steel and is used in the calculation of the minimum thickness for the aluminum alloy tube.

The force on each of the aluminum alloy bars can be calculated by using the formula F = E*A*ΔL, where:
F = force
E = Young's Modulus (73 GPa)
A = cross-sectional area of the bar (calculated using the given outer diameter of 75mm)
ΔL = extension of the bar (calculated using the maximum deflection of 0.40 mm).

I hope this helps clarify any confusion and helps you in your calculations. It is important to use the correct equations and values in order to accurately determine the minimum thickness required for the aluminum alloy tube to support the steel rod.
 

1. What is the importance of calculating the minimum thickness for aluminum alloy tubes supporting steel rods?

Calculating the minimum thickness for aluminum alloy tubes supporting steel rods is crucial for structural integrity and safety. It ensures that the tubes are able to withstand the load of the steel rods and prevent any potential failure or collapse.

2. How is the minimum thickness for aluminum alloy tubes supporting steel rods calculated?

The minimum thickness is calculated using various factors such as the strength of the aluminum alloy, the load of the steel rods, and the dimensions of the tube. It is typically done using engineering equations and calculations.

3. Can the minimum thickness for aluminum alloy tubes be determined using a general formula?

No, the minimum thickness cannot be determined using a general formula as it varies depending on the specific properties of the aluminum alloy and the load it needs to support. It is important to consult with a structural engineer for accurate calculations.

4. What are the consequences of not calculating the minimum thickness for aluminum alloy tubes?

If the minimum thickness is not calculated properly, it can lead to structural failure, which can be extremely dangerous. It can also result in additional costs and delays in construction as the tubes may need to be replaced with thicker ones.

5. Are there any safety regulations or standards for calculating the minimum thickness for aluminum alloy tubes supporting steel rods?

Yes, there are safety regulations and standards set by organizations such as ASTM International and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). These standards outline the minimum thickness requirements and other design considerations for structures using aluminum alloy tubes supporting steel rods.

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