The discussion revolves around the calculation of the thickness of a rectangular aluminum bar needed to reinforce a flybridge deck on a trawler, specifically to prevent bending under a load of 1,500 lbs applied at the center. The context includes considerations of material properties, safety factors, and the specific application of the reinforcement.
Participants generally agree on the necessity of proper engineering guidance for safety-critical applications, but there is no consensus on the specific calculations or design approaches for the aluminum reinforcement.
Capt expresses uncertainty about sizing the aluminum trusses and mentions that other grades of aluminum may be more applicable, indicating a lack of definitive knowledge on material selection and structural calculations.
Individuals interested in structural reinforcement, particularly in marine applications, as well as those seeking insights into material properties and safety considerations in engineering design.
Capt said:I am reinforcing a floor that has a 4" crown at the center and supported between 114" ends. The reinforcement material will be a rectangle bar of 6061-T4 Al,35 Ksi, length between ends 114", 1/2" width. How do I calculate the thickness to prevent bending up to 1,500 lb's forced applied at the center.
Thank you,
Capt
Capt said:The application is to reinforce the flybridge deck on my trawler. No building codes apply.
Upon the upper deck I will have 4,6 people at a single time (thus the weight load) and must support the weight with a safety factor. The two walls that support the deck are 114" apart. I am not an engineer and don't know how to size the aluminum trusses I will fabricate and install. The 6061-T4 aluminum call out is only because I'm use to fabricating that grade,other grades may be more applicable..
Flybridge decks have a crown at the center to allow the sea water to roll off during heavy weather. In this case mine is 4' at the center.
Thank you for your review.
Capt