Scribd
Upload
620 views3 pages

Moment and Couple Notes

The document explains the concept of moments and couples in engineering mechanics, defining moments as the tendency of a force to rotate an object and couples as two equal and opposite forces creating rotation. It covers types of moments, Varignon's Principle, and applications such as levers and beam bending. Key formulas and examples from daily life illustrate the practical significance of these concepts.

Uploaded by

jayadevanp2000
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
620 views3 pages

Moment and Couple Notes

The document explains the concept of moments and couples in engineering mechanics, defining moments as the tendency of a force to rotate an object and couples as two equal and opposite forces creating rotation. It covers types of moments, Varignon's Principle, and applications such as levers and beam bending. Key formulas and examples from daily life illustrate the practical significance of these concepts.

Uploaded by

jayadevanp2000
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Engineering Mechanics: Moment & Couple

1. Moment Definition and Units:

The moment of a force (torque) is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis or point.

- Formula: M = F d (Force Perpendicular distance)

- Unit: Newton-meter (Nm)

- Vector Quantity (Direction given by right-hand rule)

- Dimensions: [M L^2 T^-2]

2. Types of Moments:

- Clockwise Moment: Rotates object in clockwise direction.

- Counter-Clockwise Moment: Rotates object in counterclockwise direction.

3. Varignon's Principle of Moments:

The moment of a force about a point is equal to the algebraic sum of the moments of the components of the

force about the same point.

- Useful in breaking forces into components.

4. Couple Definition and Units:

A couple consists of two parallel forces equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, separated by a distance.

- Formula: Couple Moment = F d (perpendicular distance)

- Net force is zero, but creates rotation.

- Unit: Newton-meter (Nm)

- Does not depend on reference point (free vector).

5. Classification of Couples:

- Clockwise or Counterclockwise couple depending on direction of rotation.

- Can be applied in planar or spatial systems.

6. Examples of Moments and Couples in Daily Life:

- Turning a doorknob (moment)

- Using a wrench (moment)

- Steering wheel in a car (couple)


- Opening a jar lid (couple)

- Rowing a boat (moment)

7. Engineering Applications of Moments:

a) Simple Lever:

A lever is a rigid bar that rotates about a fulcrum. It helps in lifting loads with less effort.

- Principle: Moment of effort = Moment of load (in equilibrium)

- Types:

First Class Lever (e.g., seesaw)

Second Class Lever (e.g., wheelbarrow)

Third Class Lever (e.g., tweezers)

b) Beam Bending:

Moments cause beams to bend; used in structural analysis.

c) Torque in Machines:

Rotational force applied by motors or engines is a moment.

Formulas Recap:

- Moment: M = F d

- Couple Moment: M = F d (forces equal and opposite)

- Varignon's Theorem: M_total = M1 + M2 (components)

Diagram: Simple Lever (First Class)

You might also like