CHAPTER 9: COMBINED STRESSES Sample Problem #1

The wood beam ABCD in the figure shown carries two vertical loads. The beam is supported by a
Introduction: pin at A and the horizontal cable CE. Determine the magnitude of the largest stress (tensile or
In preceding chapters, we studied three basic types of loading, AXIAL, TORSIONAL and compressive) in the beam and its location. Neglect the weight of the beam.
FLEXURAL. Each of these types was discussed on the assumption that only one of these loadings
was acting on a structure at a time. This chapter is concerned with cases in which two or more
loads which act simultaneously on a structure. There are four possible combinations of these
loadings. However, only one combination will be discussed here.

Mc P Mc
P B      A  B
 
A  A I
A I

Mc    A  B P Mc
B    
I A I

Fig. (a) Rectangular bar carrying axial and lateral loads; (b)–(d) stress distribution obtained by
superimposing stresses due to axial load and bending; (e) stress distribution if P/A > Mc/I.
P Mc
   A B   
A I

Note: + if P is tensile
A =
- if P is compressive
+ for fibers below the neutral axis if the elastic curve is concave upward (tension)
- for fibers above the neutral axis if the elastic curve is concave upward (compression)
B =
+ for fibers above the neutral axis if the elastic curve is concave downward (tension)
- for fibers below the neutral axis if the elastic curve is concave downward (compression)
 Sample Problem #3
The member shown below has a rectangular cross section. Determine the state of stress that the
loading produces at point C.

Sample Problem #2
Calculate the normal stresses at points A and B of the bracket caused by the 30-kN force.
ASSIGNMENT:

Problem 1:
The force P = 250 kN is applied to the bracket as shown in the figure. Compute the normal stresses
developed at points A and B.

Problem 2:
Member BD of the pin-connected frame has a rectangular cross section 200 mm wide by 500 mm
deep. Determine the maximum normal stress in this member.

Problem 3:
Determine the largest value of the force P that can be applied to the wood beam without exceeding
the allowable normal stress of 20 MPa.