Department of Mechanical Engineering

Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences

Duplex Screw Jack

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: MECHANICS OF POWER SCREWS:
The main objective of this experiment is to observe the M = Applied Moment (Couple) in Newton-meters
behavior of square and Vee threads and compare their = Effort x Pulley radius
mechanical advantages and efficiencies under similar W = Load being raised (or lowered) in Newtons
loading conditions. h = Pitch of thread (measure by vernier)
r = Mean radius of thread
α = Lead angle = atan (h / πr)
μ = Coefficient of friction

Square thread:
Square threaded for raising load:
screw M = Wr (sin α + μ cos α) / (sin α – μ cos α)

Vee threaded for lowering load:

screw M = Wr (sin α – μ cos α) / (sin α + μ cos α)

V-thread:
β = Vee angle (most commonly, as here, it is 30˚)
μ' = μ · Sec β  μ = 0.866 μ'

for raising load:

M = Wr (sin α + μ' cos α) / (sin α – μ' cos α)
Applied Load

for lowering load:

M = Wr (sin α – μ' cos α) / (sin α + μ' cos α)

Note that if β = 0˚ then μ' = μ and the equations

reduce to that of square thread.

Applied Effort

IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUE:

This equipment requires hanging of heavy weights, therefore it is extremely important to follow strict safety
requirements such as wearing closed shoes. Sandals are strictly prohibited.
When a load is applied, the loading frame initially moves without moving the screw nuts, therefore care should be
taken to avoid falling of heavy weights.
Always unload effort hanger first and then load hanger, otherwise the mechanism may move suddenly and weights
in effort hanger may fall and hurt feet and toes severely.