Mechanical Design of Machine Elements

Complete after watching Module 12: Factor of Safety

Module 12 Example: Factor of Safety

A 7075 T6 aluminum rod has a radius of 2 mm 0.22 mm. The stress analyst has calculated this rod
will see a maximum tensile axial load ranging from 2000 to 2700 N. Any plastic deformation of this
rod results in a loss of component functionality. The rod is part of a class S component (Flight), with
a program-mandated n = 3. PM&P found that lot A001927 of 7075 T6 aluminum has a tensile Sy =
500 MPa, and a tensile Sut = 580 Mpa.

r
F

Is the design currently within program specs?

n = loss-of-function strength
allowable stress

1) Calculate the stress (worst case scenario)

Highest load = 2700 N

Smallest area = pr2 = p*(2-0.22)2 = (9.95 mm2)*(1m^2)/(1000 mm * 1000 mm) =

9.95 x 10-6 m2

= F/A = (2700 N)/(9.95 x 10-6 m2) = 271,303,766 Pa

= 271.3 Mpa

2) Loss of function strength is the yield strength as any plastic deformation of this rod results in
a loss of component functionality.

Sy = 500 Mpa

3) Plug stress and strength into factor of safety equation.

n = 500 MPa / 271.3 MPa = 1.84