How to Calculate Forces Leading to Disk Failure?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the forces acting on a spinning disk to determine the critical rpm at which it may fail, considering its dimensions and material properties. The scope includes theoretical and practical aspects of mechanical engineering, particularly focusing on centripetal and centrifugal forces.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to understand how to set up calculations for forces on a spinning disk that exceed the material's yield strength.
  • Another participant suggests that the topic has been well studied and recommends researching "flywheels" for more information.
  • A different participant mentions a previous discussion on "Disk Burst" that could provide relevant calculations for radial and circumferential forces.
  • One participant expresses gratitude and indicates they will follow up on the suggestions provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on specific methods or formulas for calculating the forces, and multiple suggestions and resources are provided without a definitive resolution.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the potential dangers associated with high rpm disks, emphasizing the need for caution in experimentation. There are no specific formulas or methodologies agreed upon in the discussion.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in mechanical engineering, materials science, or those exploring the safety and calculations related to rotating machinery.

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I would like to be able to calculate the forces on a spinning disk to determine the rpm it will fly apart given its dimensions and the mechanical properties of the material it's made of. I understand centripetal and centrifugal forces. However, I'm not understanding how I to set up the problem to calculate the forces that would go beyond the yield strength of the material. Suggestions, ideas, formulas? Thanks for the help.
 
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It's a good question that, fortunately, has been well studied.

I am not competent enough to give you a direct answer, but I do know that Googling the term "flywheels" will present to you many hours of interesting info.

One "obvious" note: high rpm disks are extremely dangerous due to their instability/fragmentation potential which CAN RESULT IN A LETHAL ENVIRONMENT.

Treat this subject with considerable respect of the potential hazards should you wish to experiment with it.

Anyway, googling flywheels will give you some great info.
 
There was actually recently a post regarding this same thing. If you cannot find it here, do a google for "Disk Burst", which will help you calculate the radial and circumferential forces generated by spinning.
 
Thanks much. I'll try that.
 

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