Calculating Torque for Steel Fixture at 90 Degrees

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The discussion focuses on calculating the torque required to rotate a 3600lb steel fixture that is 130 inches wide and pivots at its center. It takes approximately 30lbs of force to manually rotate the fixture from the end, leading to a preliminary torque calculation of 1800 in-lbs. However, participants note that this may be an oversimplification, particularly due to the effects of static friction, or stiction, which could require at least double the torque to initiate movement. Clarification is sought regarding the axis of rotation to ensure accurate calculations. Understanding these factors is crucial for effectively integrating a gearbox to drive the fixture.
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The red section of this fixture rotates 90 degrees it weighs 3600lbs, and is 130 inches wide. It is made out of 10 inch steel channel. On the left of the drawing is the dimension of 40" and the pivot point is actually in the center.
We can rotate it by hand if you grab onto the end that is 12" and it takes approximately 30lbs force applied to the end. If we want to add a gearbox to drive this fixture would it simply be multiplying the 30lbs by 60 inches that is the end of the fixture to the pivot point? Giving me 1800 in-lbs? It doesn't seem like enough. Or am I just greatly over simplifying this? Any help is greatly appreciated.
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You say the red section rotates 90 degrees, but you do not say what axis it rotates about. The whole question really need clarification.
 
Dr.D said:
You say the red section rotates 90 degrees, but you do not say what axis it rotates about. The whole question really need clarification.

The red section rotates around the circle which runs through the fixture where the intersection of the red section running left and right and the red portion running up and down.
 
To be sure we understand, you are actually rotating the arm vertically around the table pivot shaft, correct?
 
Hopefully this drawing will help clear things up. Thanks to everyone who replies.

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Due to stiction (static friction), you wil probably need at least twice that torque to get it started; depends entirely on the bearings and lubricant. I still remember a textbook example from half a century ago that stated: "It takes 10 men to start a loaded railroad boxcar moving but one man can keep it moving."
 
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