What is the relationship between slope and bending moment in a penstock beam?

In summary, the conversation is about calculating the bending moment in a penstock and the formula used for it. The mentor explains that the bending moment occurs at the supports and is approximated by the formula M = w * L² /9, where w is the unit load and L is the span. However, in the solution, the mentor divided by the slope, which the learner didn't understand. The mentor clarifies that this is because L is the horizontal distance between supports and the beam is longer than L, so the slope should be used as the x-x axis. The learner thanks the mentor for their help and asks for clarification on the meaning of "lin ft," to which the mentor explains that it refers to the weight being
  • #1
Zohra
7
1
<< Mentor Note -- Thread moved from the technical forums, so no Template is shown >>

Hi ,
Please I have to understand the solution of an exercice about calculating bending moment in penstock :
It is assumed that maximum moment from penstock beam bending occurs at supports.
The bending moment M is approximated by the formula : M =w * L² /9
where w = unit load (lb/ft) and L span (ft)

w in my case is the total weight = 13 205 lb/lin ft and L=100 ft so easily i did M= 13 205 * 100² /9 =...
but in the solution i find M = (13 205 / cos(8.306) *100 /9 !
cos(8.306) is the penstock slope
Can you please explain me why divise by the slope ? I thank you so much
Zohra
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Is L the horizontal distance between supports or is it measured along the slope?
 
  • #3
PhanthomJay said:
Is L the horizontal distance between supports or is it measured along the slope?
Thank you very much for your answer .
L is the horizontal distance between supports.
 
  • #4
Zohra said:
Thank you very much for your answer .
L is the horizontal distance between supports.
Okay. Thus, the beam is longer than L. Use the sloping direction as the x-x axis. What value should you then use for the portion of the uniform load that causes bending?
 
  • Like
Likes Dr.D and Zohra
  • #5
PhanthomJay said:
Okay. Thus, the beam is longer than L. Use the sloping direction as the x-x axis. What value should you then use for the portion of the uniform load that causes bending?
Thank you very much
Please , by "lin ft " it means horizontal foot or foot along the slope ?
 
  • #6
Please , by "lin ft " it means horizontal foot or foot along the slope ?
weight is distributed along the beam itself, along the slope
 
  • Like
Likes Zohra
  • #7
PhanthomJay said:
weight is distributed along the beam itself, along the slope
Understood Thank you very much for your great help
 

1. What is a bending moment at penstock?

A bending moment at penstock is a measure of the force or torque that is applied to a penstock, which is a type of pipe or channel used to transport fluids. It is caused by the weight of the fluid inside the penstock and any external forces acting on it.

2. How is the bending moment at penstock calculated?

The bending moment at penstock is calculated by multiplying the force acting on the penstock by the distance from the point of support. This can be represented mathematically as M = F x d, where M is the bending moment, F is the force, and d is the distance.

3. What factors can affect the bending moment at penstock?

Several factors can affect the bending moment at penstock, including the type and weight of the fluid being transported, the velocity and pressure of the fluid, the shape and size of the penstock, and any external forces such as wind or earthquakes.

4. Why is it important to consider the bending moment at penstock?

The bending moment at penstock is an important factor to consider because it can affect the structural integrity of the penstock. Too much bending moment can cause the penstock to deform or fail, leading to potential leaks or breaks in the system.

5. How can the bending moment at penstock be reduced?

The bending moment at penstock can be reduced by using appropriate materials and designing the penstock with proper dimensions and supports. Additionally, controlling the flow rate and pressure of the fluid being transported can help reduce the bending moment. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
9K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
4K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
8K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
138K
Back
Top