Is My Calculation of Bar Elongation Under Load Correct?

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    Elongation Load
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of bar elongation under load, focusing on the application of the modulus of elasticity and the influence of various forces on the elongation. Participants are examining the correctness of initial calculations and the appropriate use of units in the context of structural mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about their calculation of elongation, noting that the result seems too small and is unsure how to incorporate additional forces.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of using consistent units, suggesting that using Pascal and square meters could lead to confusion if not properly managed.
  • A different participant agrees on the need for consistent units but suggests that using millimeters is also acceptable, providing an example of how to express the values correctly in that unit system.
  • One participant recommends starting with an N-diagram to visualize how the axial force varies along the length of the bar, indicating a potential method for analyzing the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the correctness of the initial calculation, as participants express differing views on unit consistency and calculation methods. Multiple competing perspectives on how to approach the problem remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations related to unit consistency and the need for clear definitions of terms. There are also unresolved aspects regarding the incorporation of multiple forces acting on the bar.

togo
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I may be doing it correctly, but the number seems way to small for the initial calculation. Plus I am really not sure how to factor in those other forces. Modulus of elasticity E = 114 GPa (if unclear)

thanks

ps. answer is 0.804 mm
 
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Use consistent units. A Pascal is a N/m^2, so don't use mm, you'll just trip yourself up.

So you've got:
Ao=.0009 m^2
AB=BC=CD=.25 m
E=114 x 10^9 Pa
etc.

As for the other forces, they work in basically the same way, but each force will work on progressively more of the beam. The 80kN will work on the first .25m (as you have worked out), the backwards-acting 40kN will then have .5m to work on, and the 110kN works on the whole thing.
 
Use consistent units. Using mm is a good choice here. I would use N, mm, MPa. Notice, only E and length in post 1 are inconsistent. Below is an example of consistent units, using mm.

80 000 N
Ao = 900 mm^2
AB = BC = CD = 250 mm
E = 114 000 MPa​

(1) By the way, always leave a space between a numeric value and its following unit symbol. E.g., 80 kN, not 80kN. See the international standard for writing units[/color] (ISO 31-0[/color]). Or see the first image in post 1 for the correct form.

(2) Numbers less than 1 must always have a zero before the decimal point. E.g., 0.25, not .25. See the above links, or any credible textbook.

(3) Also, Pascal is a man, whereas pascal (Pa) is a unit of pressure or stress. Always use correct capitalization and spelling of units.
 
Last edited:
I would start by drawing the N-diagram. That is, a graph of how the axial force varies from one end to the other.
 

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