C:\whit_class\214\LinearMomentum_c3\LM_1.doc 09/03/99 Page 6 of 8


TRACTION VECTOR


Macro View Micro View

Traction “vector”

The forces acting on a surface can act in directions . . . therefore the notion of a vector

Definition

Where “(n)” is used to define the surface DA.

In particular subscript outward normal to the surface

·  Which causes the largest traction? woman in spike heels or elephant (barefoot)

Assume:

§  elephant: 9000-13000 lbs. 1ft2/foot

§  woman: 120 lbs ; assume she is walking, so momentarily all weight is on one heel; heel = 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch


assume heel is



Often we need to examine what is happening in the interior of a body. Technique used now (and in 211) is to cut the body with a cutting plane and draw FBD’s.

Observations

From definition of traction vector we obtain

Traction vector depends on orientation of the plane [already seen … since ]

Examples

·  Horizontal cut

·  Inclined cut


What is

What is traction on right face?

What is on left face?

What is A on left face?

What is on left face?

Do everything in terms of components in directions.

*Although the plane is inclined, the traction vector is defined in the original coordinate system.

Activity: What are the components of the traction vector

·  Normal to the left face

·  Tangent to the left face

·  Assume positive tangent is upward and to the left


General

Note the pattern

Define (This is to simplify notation later & to introduce new concept!)


1-D Stress Tensor vs. Traction Vector

Comments

·  property of a point. It is not related to orientation of any boundary or cutting plane

·  The traction vector at a point is dependent on the orientation of the surface on which it acts and the particular points

General statement for 1-D:


Two Dimensions

In terms of stress components

See Fig. 3.25 for 3D version.

Note that properties of a point and depends on the coordinate system chosen.

What about tractions on the other faces …