How Do I Calculate the Force to Crush a Steel Pipe?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around calculating the force required to crush a steel pipe lying horizontally on the ground, including the point of initial deformation and the relevant material properties. Participants explore equations and methodologies for this problem, with a focus on theoretical and practical applications in engineering contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the equations needed to determine the weight necessary to crush a pipe and the property that defines the point of initial deformation.
  • Another participant suggests that the "yield strength" of the material is the relevant property for determining permanent deformation and emphasizes the need for accurate material specifications, including the modulus of elasticity.
  • A calculation is proposed estimating the force exerted on one pipe as approximately 29 lbs, based on the distribution of a 3000 lb weight across multiple plates and pipes.
  • One participant recommends using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for more complex scenarios and mentions a reference book, "Roark's Formulas for Stress and Strain," although notes that it may not cover the specific case described.
  • A link to an external site is shared, suggesting it may provide helpful calculations related to the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriate methods for calculating the crushing force and the relevance of specific material properties. There is no consensus on the best approach or the adequacy of the suggested resources.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of the problem, with some suggesting that assumptions about the material and loading conditions may affect the calculations. The discussion does not resolve these assumptions or the applicability of the proposed methods.

zjn12385
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What equation(s) do I use to calculate the weight necessary to crush a pipe lying horizontally on the ground and the point at which the initial deformation occurs. What is the name of this property? I'd like to compare my findings with a manufacturer's specs.

I have a 3000 lb weight resting flat on four plates. Each plate is resting on 30 pipes that are lying side by side horizontally. Assuming that the weight is square, that each plate is flush with a different corner of the weight, and that each plate is 4" x 15", what is the force exerting on one pipe?

Pipe Dimensions:
Length = 4"
Diameter = 0.5"
Wall Thickness = .0625"
Material = Steel

It's been awhile since I've done statics.:confused:
 
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zjn12385 said:
What equation(s) do I use to calculate the weight necessary to crush a pipe lying horizontally on the ground and the point at which the initial deformation occurs. What is the name of this property? I'd like to compare my findings with a manufacturer's specs.

I have a 3000 lb weight resting flat on four plates. Each plate is resting on 30 pipes that are lying side by side horizontally. Assuming that the weight is square, that each plate is flush with a different corner of the weight, and that each plate is 4" x 15", what is the force exerting on one pipe?

Pipe Dimensions:
Length = 4"
Diameter = 0.5"
Wall Thickness = .0625"
Material = Steel

i think you are looking for the "yield strength" after which point deformation to the pipe is permanent.
You need an accurate description of the type of steel and it's modulus of elasticity.

I'd assume the force per pipe is 3,000lbs/4 plates/30 pipes per plate = ~29 lbs.
That is, if I understand correctly, that you have 30 pipes under each plate, so 120 pipes total.
 
This is a case for FEA. There's an excellent book out there called, "Roarks's Formulas for Stress and Strain." It has cases for a very wide variety of geometries. I'm unaware of the Roarks's book covering the case you describe.

Those who don't have access to FEA sometimes refer to books such as Roark's. Given that that case isn't in Roark's, then I recommend FEA.
 
check this site out... it might help...

http://www.roscoemoss.com/calculations/calculation-1.html
 
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