Calculate the clamping force to prevent the load from sliding

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the clamping force required to prevent a load from sliding on a rubber clamp attached to a vertical steel pipe. Participants explore the necessary calculations, factors affecting clamping effectiveness, and the implications of real-world conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation of a clamping force of 333 N with a friction coefficient of 0.6 and a perpendicular force of 200 N, suggesting that this setup will just barely prevent sliding.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of incorporating a safety factor into the calculations, which could range from 2.0 to 10.0 depending on various conditions such as application criticality and vibration presence.
  • A participant questions whether the moment created by the load should be considered in the calculations, indicating a potential oversight in the initial assessment.
  • Another participant requests a detailed diagram to better understand the clamping setup and stresses the need for clarity on what happens if the clamp slips.
  • Concerns are raised about the effect of water as a lubricant on rubber, suggesting that wet conditions could alter the coefficient of friction and affect the clamping force.
  • Clarifications are sought regarding the materials and colors of the components involved, as well as the relationship between hoop tension and surface pressure on the pipe.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the sufficiency of the initial calculations and the factors that need to be considered, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations in the initial calculations, such as the need for a detailed diagram and the impact of environmental factors like lubrication. There are also unresolved questions regarding the moment created by the load and the specific materials involved.

KavaKovala
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TL;DR
Clamping force
Dear,

Could you tell me if the calculations on the attachment are correct? I need to determine the force necessary to prevent the clamp from slipping.

Basically the clamp is a part of rubber that I can press against the pipe wall. A load will be attached to this part of rubber. The tube is vertical.

It's too simple to be true my calculations, lol

Thanks in advanced!

Clamp material: Rubber
Tube material: Steel
 

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If I correctly understand, you have a clamp force of 333 N, a friction coefficient of 0.6, and a force perpendicular to the clamping force of 200 N. You are correct, it will (just barely) not slide. And it really is that simple.

However, any real world clamping problem requires a safety factor. Depending on how critical the application, presence of vibrations, how accurately you know the friction coefficient, and the consequences of sliding, a suitable safety factor could be anywhere from 2.0 to 10.0.
 
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jrmichler said:
If I correctly understand, you have a clamp force of 333 N, a friction coefficient of 0.6, and a force perpendicular to the clamping force of 200 N. You are correct, it will (just barely) not slide. And it really is that simple.

However, any real world clamping problem requires a safety factor. Depending on how critical the application, presence of vibrations, how accurately you know the friction coefficient, and the consequences of sliding, a suitable safety factor could be anywhere from 2.0 to 10.0.

Hi jrmichler,

Thank you for your reply!

Just a doubt, Does the moment created by the load have any effect that must be considered?

I appreciate your help.
 
In order to answer your question, a diagram is needed that clearly shows what is being clamped to what, and how the clamping force is being applied. You need to show actual, rather than simplified, parts. And tell us what happens if it slips.

Keep in mind that, while you understand what you are trying to do, we have only your diagram and text to figure out what you are trying to do.
 
Water is a rubber lubricant. If the rubber gets wet, it may slide.
Check the coefficient of friction for wet rubber.

I assume in your diagram, the pipe is yellow. Is the rubber black ?
Is the blue band around the pipe a clamp, made from rubber or steel ?
What is the lighter blue ?

Hoop tension in a band around a pipe is not equal to surface pressure on the pipe.
Hoop tension is only doubled where both ends meet perpendicular to the clamped block.
 

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