Crushing Cars with Just a Mallet/Sledge Hammer

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In summary, these cars are crushed with sledge hammers because the force is spread over a small area and the weight of the hammer is much less than the weight of a car.
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Probably a dumb question:
I've been curious after seeing some of these car bashing type events at universities and such, how is it possible to crush the steel frame of a car using only a mallet/sledge hammer? I thought the steel pillars on the roof of a car was supposed to be able to at least withstand the weight of the car. Is a sledge hammer capable of producing more force than the weight of the car?
These cars are crushed with sledge hammers:
http://www.ccboe.org/cacc/misc/misc_06.htm
http://www-personal.engin.umd.umich.edu/~dce/pictures/carsmash.html
These kids look like they've crushed this car with sledge hammers and/or jumping on it:
http://uAlberta.ewb.ca/events/
I wouldn't even have thought it humanly possible to do this much damage:
http://www.washjeff.edu/phideltatheta/carsmash.html
 
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Side said:
I thought the steel pillars on the roof of a car was supposed to be able to at least withstand the weight of the car. Is a sledge hammer capable of producing more force than the weight of the car?
Certainly! Remember that force is equal to acceleration times mass (f=ma). While the weight (mass) of the hammer is much less than the weight of a car, when you have an impact, the acceleration (deceleration) is enormous, resulting in a force hundreds (or even thousands) of times the weight of the hammer.
 
  • #3
russ_watters said:
Certainly! Remember that force is equal to acceleration times mass (f=ma). While the weight (mass) of the hammer is much less than the weight of a car, when you have an impact, the acceleration (deceleration) is enormous, resulting in a force hundreds (or even thousands) of times the weight of the hammer.

Wouldn't pressure (pressure= Force / area) have something to do w/ why a sledge hammer (force spread over a small surface area) would inflict more damage than a roll over ( force spread over a large surface area)?
 
  • #4
Yup. That's why it's better to have your foot run over by an Abrams tank than be stomped on by a woman in high-heels.:biggrin:
 
  • #5
Danger said:
Yup. That's why it's better to have your foot run over by an Abrams tank than be stomped on by a woman in high-heels.:biggrin:

Umm, I'll take the high heels any day over a friggin tank - and surface area be damned! :bugeye:
 

1. What is the purpose of crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer?

The purpose of crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer is typically for demolition or recycling purposes. It can also be used as a safety measure to prevent stolen or abandoned cars from being resold.

2. How much force is needed to crush a car with a mallet/sledge hammer?

The amount of force needed to crush a car with a mallet/sledge hammer varies depending on the type of car and the strength of the individual swinging the hammer. However, it can require a significant amount of force and it is not recommended for the average person to attempt.

3. Is crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer safe?

No, crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer is not safe for the average person to attempt. It requires a lot of force and can be dangerous if not done properly. It is best left to trained professionals with the proper equipment and safety precautions in place.

4. Can crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer be harmful to the environment?

Crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer can potentially be harmful to the environment if not done properly. This is because it can release hazardous substances such as oil, coolant, and gasoline from the car. Proper containment and disposal methods should be used to minimize any negative impact on the environment.

5. Are there any regulations or laws regarding crushing cars with a mallet/sledge hammer?

Yes, there are regulations and laws that govern the crushing of cars with a mallet/sledge hammer. These may include obtaining proper permits, following safety protocols, and properly disposing of any hazardous materials. It is important to research and comply with all relevant laws and regulations before attempting to crush a car with a mallet/sledge hammer.

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