Allowable stress for a cantilever beam

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on calculating the maximum allowable load and stress for a cantilever beam used in a lift design, specifically focusing on the material properties of AL 6061 T60 and the impact of welding on these calculations. Participants explore various methods for determining allowable stress values and the implications of design assumptions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on calculating maximum allowable load and stress for a cantilever beam made of AL 6061 T60, including considerations for welding effects.
  • Another participant suggests referring to the AISC steel construction manual for maximum allowable stress values but does not confirm its relevance for aluminum materials.
  • A follow-up question asks whether the manual contains tables for AL 6061 T60 and inquires about alternative methods for calculating allowable stress without these tables.
  • One participant emphasizes that stress calculations involve assumptions that may not hold true in practical situations, highlighting the need to consider lateral buckling sway as a potential failure mode.
  • This participant also cautions against relying solely on formulas without considering the underlying assumptions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of the AISC manual for aluminum materials, and there is no consensus on the best approach to calculate allowable stress or the impact of design assumptions.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of listing and considering assumptions in stress calculations, as well as the potential for alternative failure modes like lateral buckling sway, which may complicate the analysis.

mdaltayeb
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Hey guys, I'm designing a simple lift in the picture below. I've done nearly all the calculations but i still can't figure out how to calculate the maximum allowable load and stress that the beams can withstand. Also will welding affect any of these calculations dramatically?
say that the horizontal beam is 3 ft long with a square cross section of 2X2 inches and wall thickness of 0.5 inch
say that the column is 6 ft high with a cylindrical cross section with an OD 4inch and ID 3.75
the beams are made of AL 6061 T60.
 

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Thank you for your reply. However, my design is going to be made out of Al 6061 T60. does this book contains tables for this materials ?
is there other ways to calculate the allowable stress without using these tables ?
thanx
 
My copy is in my office. I can check on Monday for you.

Thanks
Matt
 
Stress calculations involve assumptions which will be untrue in every practical situation. In this case, lateral buckling sway is an alternative failure mode you need to consider. Always list and consider the assumptions being made. No more 'formula engineering' please.
 

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