Question

The figure shows a crane whose weight is 12.5 kN and center of gravity in G. (a) If the crane needs to suspend the 2.5kN drum, determine the reactions on the wheel in A and B when the boom is in the position shown.(b) Considering the same situation illustrated, what is the value of the maximum weight that the crane can suspend without tipping over?

Answer 1

(a) Ra = 9.25 kN; Rb = 5.75 kN

(b) 26.7 kN

Step-by-step explanation:

(a) Draw a free-body diagram of the crane. There are four forces:

Reaction Ra pushing up at A,

Reaction Rb pushing up at B,

Weight force 12.5 kN pulling down at G,

and weight force 2.5 kN pulling down at F.

Sum of moments about B in the counterclockwise direction:

∑τ = Iα

-Ra (0.66 m + 0.42 m + 2.52 m) + 12.5 kN (2.52 m + 0.42 m) − 2.5 kN ((3.6 m + 0.9 m) cos 30° − 2.52 m) = 0

-Ra (3.6 m) + 12.5 kN (2.94 m) − 2.5 kN (1.38 m) = 0

Ra = 9.25 kN

Sum of moments about A in the counterclockwise direction:

∑τ = Iα

Rb (0.66 m + 0.42 m + 2.52 m) − 12.5 kN (0.66 m) − 2.5 kN ((3.6 m + 0.9 m) cos 30° + 0.66 m + 0.42 m) = 0

Rb (3.6 m) − 12.5 kN (0.66 m) − 2.5 kN (4.98 m) = 0

Rb = 5.75 kN

Alternatively, you can use sum of the forces in the y direction as your second equation.

∑F = ma

Ra + Rb − 12.5 kN − 2.5 kN = 0

Ra + Rb = 15 kN

9.25 kN + Rb = 15 kN

Rb = 5.75 kN

However, you must be careful. If you make a mistake in the first equation, it will carry over to this equation.

(b) At the maximum weight, Ra = 0.

Sum of the moments about B in the counterclockwise direction:

∑τ = Iα

12.5 kN (2.52 m + 0.42 m) − F ((3.6 m + 0.9 m) cos 30° − 2.52 m) = 0

12.5 kN (2.94 m) − F (1.38 m) = 0

F = 26.7 kN