MEL1010
Engineering Mechanics
Tutorial 4: Distributed Forces and Friction
Monday, September 16 8 Marks
Answer all of the following questions. Mention valid assumptions wherever applicable
1 Calculate the support reactions at A and B for the beam subjected to the two linearly varying
load distributions.
Problem 1 Problem 2
2 The transition between the loads of 10 kN/m and 37 kN / m is accomplished by mean s of a
cubic function of form w = k0 + k1x + k2x2 + k3x3, the slope of which is zero at its end points x = 1
m and x = 4 m. Determine the reactions at A and B.
3 The strut AB of negligible mass is hinged to the horizontal surface at A and to the uniform 25·kg
wheel at B. Determine the minimum couple M applied to the wheel which will cause it to slip if
the coefficient of static friction between the wheel and the surface is 0.40.
Problem 3 Problem 4
4 The two blocks are placed on the incline with the cable taut. (a) Determine the force P required
to initiate motion of the 15-kg block if P is applied down the incline. (b) If P is applied up the
incline and slowly increased from zero, determine the value of P which will cause motion and
describe that motion.
Problem 5 Problem 6
5 The uniform slender bar of length l is placed in the opening of width d at the 30o angle shown.
For what range of l/d will the bar remain in static equilibrium? The coefficient of static friction
at A and B is 𝜇" = 0.40.
6 Calculate the horizontal force P on the light 100 wedge necessary to initiate movement of the
[Link] cylinder. The coefficient of static friction for both pairs of contacting surfaces is 0.25. Also
determine the friction force FB at point B. (Caution: Check carefully your assumption of where
slipping occurs.)
7 A force P = mg / 6 is required to lower the cylinder at a constant slow speed with the cord
(
making 1 ) turns around the fixed shaft. Calculate the coefficient of friction 𝜇 between the cord
and the shaft
Problem 7 Problem 8
8 The uniform 3-m beam is suspended by the cable which passes over the large pulley. A locking
pin at A prevents rotation of the pulley. If the coefficient of friction between the cable and the
pulley is 0.25, determine the minimum value of x for which the cable will not slip on the pulley.