What is the relationship between slope and bending moment in a penstock beam?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between slope and bending moment in a penstock beam, specifically focusing on the calculation of bending moments in relation to the beam's slope and load distribution. The context includes technical reasoning related to structural engineering principles.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula for calculating the bending moment in a penstock beam, suggesting that the maximum moment occurs at the supports and is given by M = w * L² / 9, where w is the unit load and L is the span.
  • Another participant questions the use of the cosine of the slope in the bending moment calculation, seeking clarification on its necessity.
  • There is a discussion about whether L represents the horizontal distance between supports or the distance measured along the slope, with some participants confirming that L is the horizontal distance.
  • Further inquiries are made regarding the uniform load's contribution to bending, specifically how it relates to the slope of the beam.
  • Participants clarify that the weight is distributed along the beam itself, along the slope, but there is still uncertainty about the terminology used (e.g., "lin ft").

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definition of L as the horizontal distance between supports, but there remains uncertainty and differing views regarding the implications of the slope on the bending moment calculations and the terminology used for load distribution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the correct interpretation of the uniform load's effect on bending moments in relation to the slope, as well as the specific definitions of terms like "lin ft." These points may affect the understanding of the bending moment calculations.

Zohra
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Hi ,
Please I have to understand the solution of an exercice about calculating bending moment in penstock :
It is assumed that maximum moment from penstock beam bending occurs at supports.
The bending moment M is approximated by the formula : M =w * L² /9
where w = unit load (lb/ft) and L span (ft)

w in my case is the total weight = 13 205 lb/lin ft and L=100 ft so easily i did M= 13 205 * 100² /9 =...
but in the solution i find M = (13 205 / cos(8.306) *100 /9 !
cos(8.306) is the penstock slope
Can you please explain me why divise by the slope ? I thank you so much
Zohra
 
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Is L the horizontal distance between supports or is it measured along the slope?
 
PhanthomJay said:
Is L the horizontal distance between supports or is it measured along the slope?
Thank you very much for your answer .
L is the horizontal distance between supports.
 
Zohra said:
Thank you very much for your answer .
L is the horizontal distance between supports.
Okay. Thus, the beam is longer than L. Use the sloping direction as the x-x axis. What value should you then use for the portion of the uniform load that causes bending?
 
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PhanthomJay said:
Okay. Thus, the beam is longer than L. Use the sloping direction as the x-x axis. What value should you then use for the portion of the uniform load that causes bending?
Thank you very much
Please , by "lin ft " it means horizontal foot or foot along the slope ?
 
Please , by "lin ft " it means horizontal foot or foot along the slope ?
weight is distributed along the beam itself, along the slope
 
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PhanthomJay said:
weight is distributed along the beam itself, along the slope
Understood Thank you very much for your great help
 

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