1. What is the Deflection Calculator?

Definition: The Deflection Calculator determines the deflection (δ) of a rod under an axial tensile load using the formula \( \delta = \frac{PL}{AE} \), where \(P\) is the load, \(L\) is the length, \(A\) is the cross-sectional area, and \(E\) is Young's modulus.

Purpose: Helps engineers calculate how much a rod stretches under a given load.

Reference:Applied Strength of Materials for Engineering Technology

http://www.etcs.pfw.edu/~dupenb/ET_200/Applied%20Str%20of%20Mat%20for%20ET%20v14%20July%202018.pdf

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

Formula:

Where:

• \(\delta\): Deflection (in)
• \(P\): Load (lb)
• \(L\): Length (in)
• \(A\): Cross-sectional area (in²)
• \(E\): Young's modulus (psi)

Steps:

• Step 1: Input Load. Enter the load (e.g., 400 lb).
• Step 2: Input Length. Enter the length (e.g., 6 ft).
• Step 3: Input Cross-Sectional Area. Enter the area (e.g., 0.08 in²).
• Step 4: Input Young's Modulus. Enter the modulus (e.g., 10 x10⁶ psi).
• Step 5: Calculate. The calculator converts units and computes deflection in inches.

3. Importance of Deflection Calculation

Calculating deflection is crucial for:

• Structural Integrity: Ensures the rod can handle deformation without failure.
• Design Precision: Accounts for material stretching under load.
• Unit Consistency: Supports conversions across load, length, and area units.

4. Using the Calculator

Example: Load = 400 lb, Length = 6 ft, Area = 0.08 in², Young's Modulus = 10 x10⁶ psi:

• Step 1: \(P = 400 \, \text{lb}\).
• Step 2: \(L = 6 \, \text{ft} = 72 \, \text{in}\).
• Step 3: \(A = 0.08 \, \text{in}^2\).
• Step 4: \(E = 10 \times 10^6 \, \text{psi}\).
• Step 5: \(\delta = \frac{400 \cdot 72}{0.08 \cdot 10 \times 10^6} = 0.036 \, \text{in}\).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is deflection?
A: Deflection is the amount a rod stretches under an axial tensile load, calculated from load, length, area, and Young's modulus.

Q: Why convert units?
A: The calculator ensures consistent units (e.g., inches, pounds, psi) for accurate deflection calculation.

Q: Is this accurate for all rods?
A: Yes, if the load, length, area, and modulus are correctly measured for the material.