Solving Axial Loaded Beam: Deflection of P=30kN, L=1m, A=0.000225m^2

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the deflection of an axially loaded beam under a specific load, with parameters provided for length, area, modulus of elasticity, and moment of inertia. The context includes homework-related queries and considerations of buckling behavior in structural analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Adam presents a scenario involving a beam subjected to a load of 30 kN and questions the appropriate method for calculating deflection, considering the load exceeds the critical load (Pcr).
  • a_hargy raises concerns about unit consistency and suggests verifying the correctness of the provided equations and values.
  • nvn confirms the critical load calculation using Euler's formula, indicating that the applied load exceeds this critical value.
  • Another participant notes that if the load exceeds Pcr, the exact deformation cannot be computed, suggesting the beam may buckle.
  • Adam clarifies that the problem is part of a larger question involving a 2D three-bar truss structure, which includes additional calculations for displacements and stresses.
  • Another participant questions the completeness of the problem statement, specifically regarding the cross-sectional dimensions of the members, which are later provided by Adam.
  • Adam mentions that he has analyzed the structure using software and is confident in some calculations but is uncertain about the deflection at a specific point.
  • a_hargy encourages Adam by suggesting that if member AC does not buckle, he might apply the formula P*L/(E*A) for deflection calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty regarding the ability to calculate deflection when the load exceeds the critical load, with some suggesting alternative approaches while others emphasize the limitations imposed by buckling. There is no consensus on how to proceed with the calculations given the conditions presented.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential missing assumptions about the beam's behavior under load, dependence on the definitions of critical load and deformation, and unresolved mathematical steps related to the application of formulas in the context of buckling.

a_hargy
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Homework Statement


I am trying to determine the deformation of a beam loaded as shown in the attached picture.

where:
P=30kN
L=1m
A=0.000225m^2
E=2.22*10^5MPa
v=0.31
I=4.21875*10^9m^4

Homework Equations


Pcr=pi^2*EI/L
=9.2435kN

where Pcr is the critical load

The Attempt at a Solution


I assume that the deformation of the beam in the vertical direction is not simpily PL/AE as P>Pcr?
I was thinking I could calculate the horizontal deflection of the beam as it buckles and use trig to find the vertical deformation but I cannot find a way to calculate this maximum horizontal deflection. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance.
Adam
 

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a_hargy: I am currently doubtful regarding your units. Can you check your units in the given data, and ensure you are listing correct units and values?

Also, always leave a space between a numeric value and its following unit symbol. E.g., 30 kN, not 30kN. See the international standard for writing units[/color] (ISO 31-0[/color]).

Also, are you missing an exponent in your relevant equation? Check your formula. Post corrections.
 
nvn: Sorry about that, I typed it in a bit of a rush.

P = 30 kN
L = 1 m
A = 0.000225 m2 (square bar 15 mm x 15 mm)
E = 2.22*105 MPa
v = 0.31
I = 4.21875*10-9 m4

Using Euler's formula to find the critical load:
Pcr = (pi2*E*I) / L2
For which my results are 9.2435 kN proving P > Pcr
 
Last edited:
Excellent work, a_hargy.

Unfortunately, you will not be able to compute the exact deformation, because your analysis shows the column buckles. The column might completely collapse. Do you have an exact wording of the given problem statement?
 
Last edited:
So there is no way of calculating the deflection of the beam since P > Pcr?

Its actually part of a much larger question. I probably should have mentioned this to begin with but I was fairly confident I could complete the other parts.

The whole question is: For the 2D three bar truss structure shown in figure 3.1 (attached) calculate the following:
a) The unknown displacements, reactions and element stresses of the structure and;
b) The maximum axial tensile and compressive stresses.
 

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Last edited:
Did you omit something from the problem statement? Where are the member cross-sectional dimensions given?

You basically cannot compute deflection if P > Pcr. Pcr needs to be much greater than P. If Pcr is much greater than P, then you can use P*L/(E*A).
 
Last edited:
Yes sorry the areas of the bars are:
AB = 20 mm x 20 mm
BC = 25 mm x 25 mm
AC = 15 mm x 15 mm

The next question is to analyse the same structure in Strand7 which I have already completed and it shows a displacement at point C. I am confident that I have calculated the deflection of bar AB and BC correctly, I am just stuck on calculating the deflection at point C
 
a_hargy: You are doing well, and your force in member AC currently looks correct. If you pretend member AC does not buckle, you can perhaps use P*L/(E*A). See post 6.
 

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