Finding normal stress in composite bar

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the tensile normal stress in a composite bar made of aluminum and steel, given specific material properties and dimensions. The aluminum bar experiences a tensile normal strain of 1000 × 10^-6, leading to a calculated stress of 0.07 GPa. The participants confirm that the stress in the steel bar will be the same due to the equal cross-sectional area of both materials. The conversation also emphasizes the need to determine the force in each section as a function of the applied load P. Overall, the key takeaway is the relationship between stress, strain, and material properties in composite structures.
newhere
Messages
5
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The 2000 mm long composite bar shown in Fig. 1 consists of an aluminum bar having
a modulus of elasticity EAl = 70 GPa and length LAl = 500 mm, which is securely fastened
to a steel bar having modulus of elasticity ESt = 210 GPa and length LSt = 1500 mm. After
the force P is applied, a tensile normal strain of εAl = 1000 × 10-6 is measured in the
aluminum bar. Find the tensile normal stress in each bar and the total elongation of the
composite bar.

ba1mD.png



Homework Equations


ε_x=σ_x/E

The Attempt at a Solution



So I first took the equation and rearranged it, such that ε_x*E=σ_x and got σ_AL=0.07 GPa. Then for the changed in distance of the aluminum bar, dl=ε*l_0 = (1000*10^-6)(500mm) = 0.5mm change for Al bar.

Assuming that's correct, I'm stuck on how to find the stress for the steel bar and the length it changed.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The cross section area of each section is the same. If you know the stress in the alum piece, what must be the stress in the steel piece? Hint: what is the force in each piece as a function of P?
 
PhanthomJay said:
The cross section area of each section is the same. If you know the stress in the alum piece, what must be the stress in the steel piece? Hint: what is the force in each piece as a function of P?

So the stress would be the same in the steel piece?
 
PhanthomJay said:
Yes! and welcome to PF!

A most excellent welcome indeed, thanks again!
 
Back
Top