31. Maximum principal stress theory
Multiple theories of failure have been developed to understand how solid bodies yield or fail under stress. Each theory focuses on a specific aspect of stress or strain, including maximum principal stress, maximum shear stress, and distortional energy. The critical values for these theories are generally determined through tests such as tension or torsion, and real-world applications involve ensuring safety through design principles.
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4Distortional Energy Theory
What we have learnt
- Different theories exist for understanding the failure of materials under stress, including maximum principal stress and shear stress theories.
- Critical values for failure can be determined through simple tests like tension and torsion.
- Designing structures requires consideration of safety factors to ensure that operational loads remain below critical values.
Key Concepts
- -- Maximum Principal Stress Theory
- This theory posits that failure occurs when the maximum principal stress in a material reaches a critical value.
- -- Maximum Shear Stress Theory
- According to this theory, failure is determined by the maximum shear stress in a material, which must remain below a critical value.
- -- Distortional Energy Theory
- This theory focuses on the energy stored due to distortional stress states, asserting that failure occurs when the distortional energy exceeds a critical threshold.
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