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
40.kg 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.