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Stress

Reference data and engineering information about stress for mechanics applications.

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Overview

Engineering reference data for Stress in mechanics.

Key Formulas

Newton's Second Law

F=maF = ma

Force = mass × acceleration.

Work

W=FdcosθW = Fd\cos\theta

Work = force × displacement × cos(angle).

Kinetic Energy

Ek=12mv2E_k = \frac{1}{2}mv^2

Energy of motion.

Potential Energy

Ep=mghE_p = mgh

Gravitational potential energy.

Variables

SymbolDescriptionUnit
FFForceN
mmMasskg
aaAccelerationm/s²
vvVelocitym/s

Example Calculations Summary

The following table summarizes the stress calculation results from the examples in the original text.

2 rows
Comparison of normal stress from a direct axial load versus shear stress from a point load on a simply supported beam, using the same cross-sectional area.
Scenario
Applied Force (F)(N)
Area (A)(cm²)
Resulting Force(N)
Calculated Stress(MPa)
Normal Stress in Column1000020.3100004.9
Shear Stress in Beam1000020.350002.5

Source: engineeringtoolbox.com

Definitions and Properties

  • Yield Strength: A critical material property indicating the stress level at which a material begins to deform plastically (permanently). As noted, a typical value for structural steel is 250 MPa. If the applied stress (σ) is below the yield strength, the material will elastically return to its original shape.
  • Elastic vs. Plastic Deformation:
    • Elastic Deformation: The material returns to its original dimensions after the load is removed. This occurs when stress is below the yield strength.
    • Plastic Deformation: The material deforms permanently. This begins when the stress exceeds the yield strength.

Interactive Charts

he-a steel beam

References