Recent content by meca

Reference Thread: thread176-453592 I ran across this thread referenced above which has been closed; however, it was a good question and it didn't appear that anyone had answered the original post. I had the same question/concern as the original poster, and so I researched this topic. I...

Thanks to all. Even though it looks like homework, it's not. It's a type of damping device, and I'm trying to determine how to properly size the beam. I've created a finite element model that gives some stresses, but the hand calculations results are an order of magnitude higher. I'm trying...

I know this isn't the conventional structural question, but I haven't had any response in the vibration forum. The question is a mix of vibration and stress. I have a pendulum with a spring attached. I can determine a relationship to predict the natural frequency of the system. Where I'm...

I'm not sure of the best forum to post this question, so I thought I would try here. I have a pendulum with a spring attached. I can determine a relationship to predict the natural frequency of the system. Where I'm having trouble is finding a relationship to predict the maximum bending...

If a structure is flexible (NF < 1 Hz), then we must calculate the flexible gust factor. If the structure has a stiffness which is significantly different in each direction, do we still base the gust factor on the lowest natural frequency for the entire structure? Or is the intent to...

Thank you, this is very helpful information.

I am working on Gasoline Storage Sphere built sometime in the 60's and they have indicated the material is A-212-A. I have found lots of information on A-212-B, but I can't find any properties for A-212-A. Can anyone tell me the difference between Grade A and B? Are spheres usually designed...

I have a pressure vessel that was not originally designed or constructed to ASME Sec. VIII, Div. 1. It wasn't designed or constructed to any code that I can determine. In API-510 Para 7.7 there is a section for "Evaluation of Existing Equipment with Minimal Documentation". I've followed this...

Here is a link to some pictures to show the construction at various stages, which I think might be more illustrative than my 2D sketch. http://www.mecaenterprises.com/downloads/ArchPics.pdf

I realized I made a mistake in my reactions. The vertical load is only 3,500 lbs, but the thrust is 1,300 lbs. http://www.mecaenterprises.com/downloads/ArchModel2.pdf If I model as an arched beam with total of 7,000 lbs uniformly distributed, then I get a thrust of aobut 8,000 lbs. I'm...

Thank you to everyone for all of the helpful comments and suggestions. No design was done on this arch, it was just built by the masonry guys, and they believe it is fine (shocking). There is no wood beam, truss, structural steel, or any reinforcement inside of the arch and columns. I've...

My main concern is structural integrity, I can live with the appearance. I have no experience with brick work, can anyone comment on whether the arch "Looks" like it is adequate? I'm just asking for a gut feel based upon your experience, on whether the arch looks like it is adequate to...

I design steel frequently, but I'm not sure how to analyze this situation. I can model an Arch in StaadPro, but I'm not sure what material and section properties to use to simulate the arch? Once I determine the thrust load, I'm not sure how to determine if that is acceptable. Hokie66, what...

mpdst11, What type of structure are you analyzing? Are you sure it classifies as a flexible structure (NF < 1 Hz)?

I am building a home, and have a brick arch over an entry way. Due to a mistake, the arch is wider and flatter than originally intended. I don't have any experience with masonry, and was looking for some guidance on how to confirm that this arch is adequate to support the weight of the brick...