Can a Rectangular Hollow Section Hold a 30kg Floodlight?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the structural integrity of a rectangular hollow section with dimensions of 400 mm length, 125 mm width, and 50 mm height, with a thickness of 3 mm, in supporting a 30 kg floodlight. Key considerations include the orientation of the section, attachment methods, and material properties. Assuming the section is a cantilever, the bending stress calculated is 6.44 MPa, which is minimal for materials like steel or aluminum. However, joint stresses and the specifications of fasteners, including bolt installation torque, are critical for a comprehensive assessment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of structural mechanics, particularly bending stress calculations.
  • Familiarity with material properties of steel and aluminum.
  • Knowledge of fastener specifications and installation techniques.
  • Ability to interpret engineering diagrams and boundary conditions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "bending stress calculations for cantilever beams" to understand load distribution.
  • Study "material properties of steel and aluminum" to assess suitability for structural applications.
  • Learn about "fastener specifications and installation torque" for secure assembly.
  • Examine "engineering diagrams and boundary conditions" for accurate structural analysis.
USEFUL FOR

Structural engineers, mechanical designers, and anyone involved in the design and analysis of load-bearing structures will benefit from this discussion.

azmo
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Homework Statement



Dimensions: length - 400 mm, width - 125 mm height - 50 mm
thickness - 3 mm

included 6 holes for m12 bolts at the top, 4 holes for m6 bolts.

will this section be able to hold a 30kg floodlight.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



still trying to find relevant equation for hollow section
 
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You question is incomplete. How is the "hollow section" being used? Cantilever, supported on both ends, ...?

How is the rectangular section oriented? What is it attached to, and by what method? How and where is the floodlight attached? What are it's dimensions?

For a complete answer, you will also need to know the material properties, and the fasteners' specifications.
 
Well said by pantaz. Worst case might be to assume the beam is a cantilever. Therefore, even if bending about the minor axis, the bending stress on the global cross section would then be a mere 6.44 MPa, which is very little, assuming this beam is steel or aluminum. Holes near the neutral axis tend to be negligible. Large holes near the extreme fibers might be significant, if the beam were subjected to high bending stress, which currently appears to perhaps not be the case.

But as pantaz alludes to, the joint stresses might instead govern. Therefore, we probably need to see a dimensioned diagram of the assembly, boundary conditions, fastener material specifications, and bolt installation torque. azmo, is the given problem in post 1 a school assignment? Or not?
 

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