Effect of Multiple Springs with Different Spring Constants on Plate Compression

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of two helical springs with different spring constants attached to metal plates under compressive stress. When force is equally distributed across the plate surface, the springs will compress differently due to their distinct spring constants, leading to potential tilting of the plate. The unequal compression results in varying forces and torque on the plate, which can cause it to tilt if not fixed. This highlights the importance of spring constant differences in mechanical systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and spring constants
  • Knowledge of torque and its effects on mechanical systems
  • Familiarity with the principles of force distribution
  • Basic concepts of helical spring mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of varying spring constants on mechanical systems
  • Explore the principles of torque in static and dynamic systems
  • Learn about force distribution in structural engineering
  • Investigate the applications of helical springs in real-world scenarios
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Mechanical engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in the dynamics of spring systems and their applications in engineering design.

blumist
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If i were to attach 2 helical springs (of same uncompressed length but different Spring constants) to metal plates on both ends and then apply a compressive stress on one of the plates, will both the springs compress the same? even though they hold a different tendency for compression?
And also, in what way does the difference in the 2 spring constants affect the movement of the plate?

Assume 1 plate to be fixed.
 
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hi blumist! :smile:

depends on where you apply the force …

even with identical springs, if you don't apply the force in the centre, the compressions will be different :wink:
 
uh oh... this was one of those times when u assume that the listener ( or reader in this case ) knows what u r thinking... :redface:
I forgot to mention... the force is equally distributed throughout the plate surface... What would happen for this case?
 
In that case, the plate will tilt if allowed to tilt. Same compression would result in different amounts of force. That would result in torque on the plate, and if unbalanced, that will cause the plate to tilt.
 
yup! :smile: …

same as if you stood on two different springs … the presence of the plate makes no difference! :wink:
 

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