What is the maximum load capacity for my fabricated bracket?

[DJT1967]

Hi Guys I hope you can help. I’m currently trying to modify some existing equipment and have a problem that I hope you good people can help me solve. I have a fabricated bracket that currently supports another bracket than runs on linear bearings to position its self.

see attached JPG for rough layout.

We would like the existing bracket to support a load of approximately 1000kgs and after doing some research and found some calculations that would appear to be roughly what I need but I’m not sure.

I was wondering if anyone here would be so kind as to point me in the right direction as to what calculation / formula I would need to calculate the maximum load the bracket will take.

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[Baluncore]

I think it best to first understand the functionality, then look for the weakest link in the design.

The sliding bracket will rotate clockwise due to the eccentrically applied load. The outer (RHS) linear bearing will carry all the load, plus the negative load on the inner (LHS) linear bearing.

A 20 mm thick, 700 mm wide shelf supports the linear bearings. That shelf should be narrower so the outer (RHS) linear bearing that carries the load, can be closer to the vertical support structure.

If the purpose of the inner (LHS) linear bearing is to maintain the orientation of the sliding bracket, then consider mounting one linear bearing above the other so you can get both bearings to carry the load, and move the vertical force much closer to the vertical support structure.

You might consider mounting the shelf on edge as it will support the load better in that orientation.

What type of linear bearings are you considering? Make and model?
Can they take sideways or lifting forces as great as the vertical force?

 

[berkeman]

We would like the existing bracket to support a load of approximately 1000kgs

That's a pretty significant load. What would happen if the bracket fails? How far can the load fall, and what kinds of things are underneath this assembly?

 

[berkeman]

Oh duh, never mind. The OP is from 2008.