How Do You Calculate Tension in Multiple Supporting Wires?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the tension in three vertical wires supporting a uniform steel plate. Participants explore the application of static equilibrium principles, particularly focusing on the sum of moments and forces in a homework context.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states the need to calculate the tension in each wire, proposing that the sum of the tensions must equal the weight of the plate to maintain equilibrium.
  • Another participant suggests that choosing an axis through two of the unknown tensions could simplify the moment calculations.
  • A later reply indicates that the original poster successfully solved the problem using the sum of moments about the X and Y axes and the sum of forces about the Z axis.
  • One participant questions whether the solution was verified by taking moments about a different axis, emphasizing the importance of checking calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the principles of static equilibrium and the importance of checking calculations, but there is no consensus on the best approach to calculate the tensions, as different methods are suggested.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the distribution of weight and the arrangement of the wires may not be explicitly stated. The discussion does not resolve the specific values of tension in each wire.

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Homework Statement



A uniform steel plate 18 in. square weighing 87.8 lb is suspended in the horizontal plane by the three vertical wires as shown. Calculate the tension in each wire ((a)TA , (b)TB, and (c)TC).

Homework Equations


\SigmaM=0


The Attempt at a Solution


both A and B are 9 in. from the x axis
C is on the x axis, so A and B have to be equal or it would rotate about x axis
A+B+C=87.8 or it would move in or out of the page
 

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Good start. You have identified an axis about which moments must be equal. Actually ANY axis could be chosen, and the moments about that axis would have to balance. Why not choose an axis passing through two of the unknown tensions?
 
Thank you, I solved it using the Sum of the moments about the X and Y axis and the Sum of the forces about the Z.
 
Ah yes but did you check it by taking moments about some other axis? (always wise to do that)
 

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