Forces and reaction forces generated by a linear actuator

[amrbekhit]

A linear actuator is wedged between two solid walls as shown in the diagram below. The linear actuator is pushing outwards with a force of 10N. What are the magnitudes of the forces labelled in the diagrams?

I reckon that F1 = F2 = R1 = R2. However, I'm not sure if F1 = F2 = 5N or 10N. I'm guessing 10N.

Any thoughts?

--Amr

 

[JaredJames]

If the system is in equilibrium then all the forces are balanced.

Remember, if R1 = 10N and R2 = 10N that implies that there is 20N compressing the system and we know there is only 10N expanding it.

Jared

 

[amrbekhit]

Hi Jared,

Thanks for your reply. Based on that, if the linear actuator produces a 10N force, F1 = F2 = R1 = R2 = 5N.

Amr

 

[JaredJames]

I'd agree with that conclusion.

Jared