The shear stress in rectangular beam is a form of stress that occurs when two parallel forces of equal magnitude, but opposite direction and sense, act upon the beam. These forces are called shear forces and can cause the beam to bend, buckle or break. The calculation of the shear stress in a rectangular beam is a relatively simple process that requires knowledge of the beam’s material properties and dimensions. In this article, we will discuss the formula to calculate the shear stress in a rectangular beam and how to use it.
What is Shear Stress in Beams?
Shear stress in beams is a form of stress that occurs when two parallel forces of equal magnitude, but opposite direction and sense, act upon the beam. These forces are called shear forces and can cause the beam to bend, buckle or break. The intensity of the shear stress in a beam can be calculated using a relatively simple formula. This formula is based on the beam’s material properties and dimensions.
The Formula for Calculating Shear Stress in a Rectangular Beam
The formula for calculating the shear stress in a rectangular beam is as follows:
Shear Stress (τ) = F/A
Where F is the total applied force and A is the area of the beam’s cross-section.
How to Use the Formula to Calculate Shear Stress in a Rectangular Beam
Using this formula, calculating the shear stress in a rectangular beam is a relatively straightforward process. First, you need to determine the total applied force. This can be calculated using either the beam’s weight or the magnitude of the applied forces. Next, you need to determine the area of the beam’s cross-section. This can be done by measuring the width and height of the beam and multiplying them together.
Once you have determined the applied force and the area of the beam’s cross-section, you can plug these values into the formula to calculate the shear stress in the beam. For example, if the total applied force is 1000 N and the area of the beam’s cross-section is 25 cm2, then the shear stress in the beam is 1000/25 = 40 N/cm2.
Factors that Affect the Shear Stress in a Rectangular Beam
The shear stress in a rectangular beam is affected by a variety of factors. These include the material properties of the beam, such as its Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio, as well as its dimensions. The greater the applied force and the smaller the area of the beam’s cross-section, the greater the shear stress in the beam.
In addition, the beam’s shape and orientation can also affect the shear stress in the beam. For example, a beam with an elliptical cross-section will experience greater shear stress than a beam with a rectangular cross-section. Similarly, a beam that is oriented horizontally will experience greater shear stress than a beam that is oriented vertically.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the shear stress in a rectangular beam is a form of stress that occurs when two parallel forces of equal magnitude, but opposite direction and sense, act upon the beam. The intensity of the shear stress in a beam can be calculated using a relatively simple formula. This formula is based on the beam’s material properties and dimensions, as well as its shape and orientation. By understanding the formula and how it works, you can accurately calculate the shear stress in a rectangular beam.