Does Gravity Affect the Inertia Load in a Dual-Weight Pulley System?

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In a dual-weight pulley system with two 850 lb weights, the primary concern is calculating the required torque to move the system 40 inches in one second. The discussion centers on whether gravity affects the inertia load, with one party arguing that gravity reduces the load to 850 lbs, while the other asserts that both weights contribute to the inertia. The consensus is that gravity acts on both weights, meaning the inertia load should be considered as 1700 lbs. The friction in the system is also a factor, but the key focus remains on the inertia calculation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for accurately designing the counterweight system.
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I have a counterweight system I am trying to develop. One of my associates and I are in disagreement over something though.

The system is simple, it is effectivly two 850 Lb weights connected together by a chain. The chain is suspended by two pulleys. One of the pulleys is connected to motor. I am trying to calculate the torque required to move the system 40 inches in 1 second.

I believe the only forces that I have to overcome is inertia due to acceleration and the system friction. Assuming there is no friction the inertia is all that is l have to overcome.

Here is my question: Is the inertia load 1700 Lbs or 850. My associate says gravity will remove one of the loads but if gravity acts on both weights shouldn't it cancel out?
 

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You are correct.
 

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