Calculating Torque for Steel Fixture at 90 Degrees

  • Thread starter SevenToFive
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In summary, the red section of this fixture is a 3600lbs, 130 inches wide, and made of 10 inch steel channel. It can rotate 90 degrees around an axis that runs through the intersection of the red section running left and right and the red portion running up and down. To rotate it, 30lbs force needs to be applied to the end that is 12 inches away from the pivot point. Adding a gearbox to drive the fixture would require 1800 in-lbs of torque, but this may not be enough due to stiction. Clarification is needed on the axis of rotation and the rotation process.
  • #1
SevenToFive
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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.
IMG_0001.jpg
 
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  • #2
You say the red section rotates 90 degrees, but you do not say what axis it rotates about. The whole question really need clarification.
 
  • #3
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.
 
  • #4
To be sure we understand, you are actually rotating the arm vertically around the table pivot shaft, correct?
 
  • #5
Hopefully this drawing will help clear things up. Thanks to everyone who replies.

IMG.jpg
 
  • #6
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."
 

1. What is torque and why is it important in steel fixtures?

Torque is a measure of the twisting force applied to an object. In the context of steel fixtures, torque is important because it determines the strength and stability of the fixture under load.

2. How is torque calculated for a steel fixture at 90 degrees?

To calculate torque for a steel fixture at 90 degrees, you need to know the distance from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied, known as the lever arm, and the force applied. The torque is then calculated by multiplying the force by the lever arm.

3. What units are used to measure torque for steel fixtures?

Torque is commonly measured in Newton-meters (Nm) or foot-pounds (ft-lb) for steel fixtures. However, other units such as inch-pounds (in-lb) or kilogram-meters (kg-m) may also be used.

4. How does the angle of application affect torque calculation for a steel fixture?

The angle of application, or the angle at which the force is applied in relation to the lever arm, affects the torque calculation for a steel fixture. The larger the angle, the smaller the resulting torque will be. This is because the force is not being applied directly perpendicular to the lever arm.

5. What are some practical applications of calculating torque for steel fixtures at 90 degrees?

Calculating torque for steel fixtures at 90 degrees is important in various practical applications, such as designing and testing industrial equipment, determining the stability of structures, and assessing the strength of materials. It is also used in everyday tasks, such as tightening bolts and screws with the correct amount of torque to ensure secure and safe connections.

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