Strong Steel wire but an elastic spring? Why?

In summary, steel wire can withstand strong tensile stress and can be coiled into an elastic spring. This can be proven mathematically, as the coiled spring can be analyzed for stress and strain in the same manner as a straight rod. When analyzing for a coiled spring loaded axially, shear and bending can be neglected as long as there is no sideways force or moment applied. The amount of resistance provided by the strong steel wire against a twisting motion or opposing torques will depend on the stress and strain associated with the amount of twist.
  • #1
tlfx1996
8
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The steel wire can withstand strong tensile stress, but when the steel wire is being coiled into a spring it can be an elastic spring. Why is this? Can this be proven mathematically?
 
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  • #2
How much resistance will that strong steel wire provide against a twisting motion, opposing torques applied to opposite ends of the wire, which is most of the relative deformation in the case of a spring?
 
  • #3
I'm sorry, can you explain your answer straight away. Ii'm not sure of the answer. thx
 
  • #4
A straight rod will have some resistance to being twisted or having a torque applied to it. There will be a stress and strain asscociated with the amount of twist.

Now coil up the rod into the shape of a coiled spring. If a force is put on the spring, the rod, or rather a cross section through a part of the coiled rod, even though coiled up, can be analyzed for the stress and strain in the same manner as the straight rod experiences a torque.

For a coiled spring loaded axially,
http://www.codecogs.com/library/engineering/materials/springs.php
http://nptel.iitm.ac.in/courses/Web...ials/lects & picts/image/lect20/lecture20.htm

When they say shear and bending can be neglected, they mean a pure axial load, so no sideways force or a moment is to be applied to the spring.
 
  • #5


The physical properties of steel wire make it a strong material that is able to withstand high amounts of tensile stress without breaking. This is due to the atomic structure of steel, which is made up of tightly packed and interconnected iron and carbon atoms. This structure allows for the transfer of forces throughout the wire, making it resistant to deformation.

However, when the steel wire is coiled into a spring, its shape and structure change. The wire is stretched and bent into a spiral, which allows it to store and release energy when compressed or extended. This is what makes it an elastic spring – it can return to its original shape after being deformed.

This phenomenon can be explained mathematically through Hooke's Law, which states that the force applied to an elastic material is directly proportional to the amount of deformation it undergoes. In the case of a steel wire spring, the force applied to stretch or compress the wire is equal to the spring constant (a measure of the stiffness of the spring) multiplied by the amount of deformation.

In conclusion, the strong steel wire's ability to become an elastic spring is a result of its unique atomic structure and the principles of elasticity. This can be mathematically proven and is a fundamental concept in the study of materials and their properties.
 

1. How can steel wire be strong and elastic at the same time?

Steel wire is made up of a combination of iron and carbon, which gives it its strength. However, the wire is also made with a specific diameter and composition that allows it to have a certain degree of elasticity.

2. What makes steel wire a good choice for an elastic spring?

Steel wire has a high tensile strength, meaning it can withstand a large amount of pulling force without breaking. This makes it ideal for use as an elastic spring, as it can stretch and return to its original shape without breaking or losing its elasticity.

3. How does the structure of steel wire contribute to its strength and elasticity?

The molecular structure of steel wire is arranged in a crystalline pattern, which allows for strong intermolecular bonds. This gives the wire its strength. Additionally, the presence of carbon in the steel allows for a certain amount of flexibility, giving it its elasticity.

4. Can steel wire be made stronger or more elastic?

Yes, the strength and elasticity of steel wire can be manipulated through various methods such as heat treatment, cold drawing, and alloying. These processes can alter the molecular structure of the wire and improve its properties.

5. What are some common applications of strong steel wire with elastic properties?

Strong steel wire with elastic properties is commonly used in various industries, such as automotive, construction, and manufacturing. It is often used in springs, cables, and wires for its durability and ability to withstand heavy loads. It is also used in surgical instruments and medical devices due to its strength and flexibility.

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