For 2013 (IES, GATE & PSUs)

Strength of Materials
Contents
Chapter 1: Stress and Strain
Chapter - 2 : Principal Stress and Strain
Chapter - 3 : Moment of Inertia and Centroid
Chapter - 4 : Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram
Chapter - 5 : Deflection of Beam
Chapter - 6 : Bending Stress in Beam
Chapter - 7 : Shear Stress in Beam
Chapter - 8 : Fixed and Continuous Beam
Chapter - 9 : Torsion
Chapter-10 : Thin Cylinder
Chapter-11 : Thick Cylinder
Chapter-12 : Spring
Chapter-13 : Theories of Column
Chapter-14 : Strain Energy Method
Chapter-15 : Theories of Failure
Chapter-16 : Riveted and Welded Joint

S K Mondal
IES Officer (Railway), GATE topper, NTPC ET-2003 batch,
12 years teaching experienced, Author of Hydro Power
Familiarization (NTPC Ltd)

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Note
Asked Objective Questions is the total collection of questions from:-
21 yrs IES (2012-1992) [Engineering Service Examination]
21 yrs. GATE (2012-1992)
and 14 yrs. IAS (Prelim.) [Civil Service Preliminary]

Copyright 2007 S K Mondal

Every effort has been made to see that there are no errors (typographical or otherwise) in the
material presented. However, it is still possible that there are a few errors (serious or
otherwise). I would be thankful to the readers if they are brought to my attention at the
following e-mail address: [email protected]

S K Mondal

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 1. Stress and Strain

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

1.1 Stress ()
When a material is subjected to an external force, a resisting force is set up within the component.
The internal resistance force per unit area acting on a material or intensity of the forces distributed
over a given section is called the stress at a point.

x It uses original cross section area of the specimen and also known as engineering stress or
conventional stress.
P
Therefore, T 
A

x P is expressed in Newton (N) and A, original area, in square meters (m2), the stress will be
expresses in N/ m2. This unit is called Pascal (Pa).

x As Pascal is a small quantity, in practice, multiples of this unit is used.

1 kPa = 103 Pa = 103 N/ m2 (kPa = Kilo Pascal)
1 MPa = 106 Pa = 106 N/ m2 =1 N/mm2 (MPa = Mega Pascal)
1 GPa = 109 Pa = 109 N/ m2 (GPa = Giga Pascal)
Let us take an example: A rod 10 mm q 10 mm cross-section is carrying an axial tensile load 10
kN. In this rod the tensile stress developed is given by

P 10 kN 10q103 N
Tt
    100N/mm2  100MPa
A 10 mm q10 mm
100 mm 2

x The resultant of the internal forces for an axially loaded member is

normal to a section cut perpendicular to the member axis.

x The force intensity on the shown section is defined as the normal stress.
%F P
T  lim and Tavg 
%Al 0 %A A

x Tensile stress (t)

If > 0 the stress is tensile. i.e. The fibres of the component
tend to elongate due to the external force. A member
subjected to an external force tensile P and tensile stress
distribution due to the force is shown in the given figure.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x Compressive stress (c)
If < 0 the stress is compressive. i.e. The fibres of the
component tend to shorten due to the external force. A
member subjected to an external compressive force P and
compressive stress distribution due to the force is shown in
the given figure.

x Shear stress ( U )
When forces are transmitted from one part of a body to other, the stresses
developed in a plane parallel to the applied force are the shear stress. Shear
stress acts parallel to plane of interest. Forces P is applied
transversely to the member AB as shown. The corresponding
internal forces act in the plane of section C and are called shearing
P
forces. The corresponding average shear stress U

Area

1.2 Strain ()
The displacement per unit length (dimensionless) is
known as strain.

x Tensile strain ( F t)
The elongation per unit length as shown in the
figure is known as tensile strain.
t = L/ Lo
It is engineering strain or conventional strain.
Here we divide the elongation to original length
not actual length (Lo + % L)

Let us take an example: A rod 100 mm in original length. When we apply an axial tensile load 10
kN the final length of the rod after application of the load is 100.1 mm. So in this rod tensile strain is
developed and is given by
%L L  Lo 100.1mm 100 mm 0.1mm
Ft
     0.001 (Dimensionless)Tensile
Lo Lo 100 mm 100 mm

x Compressive strain ( F c)
If the applied force is compressive then the reduction of length per unit length is known
as compressive strain. It is negative. Then c = (-L)/ Lo
Let us take an example: A rod 100 mm in original length. When we apply an axial compressive
load 10 kN the final length of the rod after application of the load is 99 mm. So in this rod a
compressive strain is developed and is given by

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
%L L  Lo 99 mm 100 mm 1mm
Fc
     0.01 (Dimensionless)compressive
Lo Lo 100 mm 100 mm

x Shear Strain ( H ): When a

force P is applied tangentially to

the element shown. Its edge
displaced to dotted line. Where

E is the lateral displacement of

the upper face
of the element relative to the lower face and L is the distance between these faces.

E
Then the shear strain is (H ) 
L
Let us take an example: A block 100 mm 100 mm base and 10 mm height. When we apply a
tangential force 10 kN to the upper edge it is displaced 1 mm relative to lower face.
Then the direct shear stress in the element

10 kN 10q103 N
(U )    1 N/mm2  1 MPa
100 mmq100 mm 100 mmq100 mm

1mm
And shear strain in the element ( H ) =   0.1 Dimensionless
10 mm

1.3 True stress and True Strain

The true stress is defined as the ratio of the load to the cross section area at any instant.

TT

load  T 1  F

Instantaneous area
Where T and F is the engineering stress and engineering strain respectively.

x True strain
L
dl L A d
FT
  ln  ln 1  F
 ln o  2ln o
Lo
l Lo A d

or engineering strain ( F ) = eFT -1

The volume of the specimen is assumed to be constant during plastic deformation.
[ ' Ao Lo  AL ] It is valid till the neck formation.

x Comparison of engineering and the true stress-strain curves shown below

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x The true stress-strain curve is also known as
the flow curve.
x True stress-strain curve gives a true indication
of deformation characteristics because it is
based on the instantaneous dimension of
the specimen.
x In engineering stress-strain curve, stress drops
down after necking since it is based on the
original area.

x In true stress-strain curve, the stress however increases after necking since the cross-
sectional area of the specimen decreases rapidly after necking.
x The flow curve of many metals in the region of uniform plastic deformation can be
expressed by the simple power law.
T = K(T)n Where K is the strength coefficient
n is the strain hardening exponent
n = 0 perfectly plastic solid
n = 1 elastic solid
For most metals, 0.1< n < 0.5

x Relation between the ultimate tensile strength and true stress at maximum
load
Pmax
The ultimate tensile strength Tu

Ao

Pmax
The true stress at maximum load Tu
T 
A

Ao Ao
And true strain at maximum load F
T  ln or  e FT
A A
Pmax Pmax Ao
Eliminating Pmax we get , Tu
T   q  Tu e FT
A Ao A
Where Pmax = maximum force and Ao = Original cross section area
A = Instantaneous cross section area
Let us take two examples:
(I.) Only elongation no neck formation
In the tension test of a rod shown initially it was Ao
= 50 mm2 and Lo = 100 mm. After the application of
load its A = 40 mm2 and L = 125 mm.
Determine the true strain using changes in both
length and area.

Answer: First of all we have to check that does the (If no neck formation
member forms neck or not? For that check Ao Lo  AL occurs both area and
or not? gauge length can be used
Here 50 100 = 40 125 so no neck formation is for a strain calculation.)
there. Therefore true strain

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
L
dl 125
FT
  ln  0.223
l 100
Lo

Ao 50
FT
 ln  ln  0.223
A 40
(II.) Elongation with neck formation
A ductile material is tested such and necking occurs
then the final gauge length is L=140 mm and the
final minimum cross sectional area is A = 35 mm2.
Though the rod shown initially it was Ao = 50 mm2
and Lo = 100 mm. Determine the true strain using
changes in both length and area.

Answer: First of all we have to check that does the (After necking, gauge
member forms neck or not? For that check Ao Lo  AL length gives error but
or not? area and diameter can
Here AoLo = 50 100 = 5000 mm3 and AL=35 140 be used for the
= 4200 mm3. So neck formation is there. Note here calculation of true strain
AoLo > AL. at fracture and before
Therefore true strain fracture also.)
Ao 50
FT
 ln  ln  0.357
A 35
L
dl 140
But not FT
  ln  0.336 (it is wrong)
l 100
Lo

1.4 Hooks law

According to Hooks law the stress is directly proportional to strain i.e. normal stress () B normal
strain () and shearing stress ( U ) B shearing strain ( H ).

= E and U  GH

The co-efficient E is called the modulus of elasticity i.e. its resistance to elastic strain. The co-
efficient G is called the shear modulus of elasticity or modulus of rigidity.

1.5 Volumetric strain Fv

A relationship similar to that for length changes holds for three-dimensional (volume) change. For
P
volumetric strain, Fv
, the relationship is Fv
= (V-V0)/V0 or Fv
= V/V0
K
x Where V is the final volume, V0 is the original volume, and V is the volume change.

x Volumetric strain is a ratio of values with the same units, so it also is a dimensionless
quantity.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x V/V= volumetric strain = x +y + z = 1 +2 + 3

x Dilation: The hydrostatic component of the total stress contributes to deformation by

changing the area (or volume, in three dimensions) of an object. Area or volume change is
called dilation and is positive or negative, as the volume increases or decreases,
p
respectively. e  Where p is pressure.
K
PL
1.6 Youngs modulus or Modulus of elasticity (E) = =
A
W PL
1.7 Modulus of rigidity or Shear modulus of elasticity (G) = =
J AG
'p 'p
1.8 Bulk Modulus or Volume modulus of elasticity (K) = 
'v 'R
v R
1.10 Relationship between the elastic constants E, G, K,

9KG
E 2G 1  P  3K 1  2P 
3K  G [VIMP]

Where K = Bulk Modulus, N = Poissons Ratio, E= Youngs modulus, G= Modulus of rigidity

x For a linearly elastic, isotropic and homogeneous material, the number of elastic
constants required to relate stress and strain is two. i.e. any two of the four must be
known.
x If the material is non-isotropic (i.e. anisotropic), then the elastic modulii will vary with
additional stresses appearing since there is a coupling between shear stresses and
normal stresses for an anisotropic material.
Let us take an example: The modulus of elasticity and rigidity of a material are 200 GPa and 80
GPa, respectively. Find all other elastic modulus.
9KG
Answer: Using the relation E 2G 1  P  3K 1  2 P  we may find all other elastic modulus
3K  G
easily
E E 200
Poissons Ratio ( P ) : 1 P P 1  1 0.25
2G 2G 2 u 80
E E 200
Bulk Modulus (K) : 3K K 133.33GPa
1  2P 3 1  2 P  3 1  2 u 0.25 

1.11 Poissons Ratio ()

Transverse strain or lateral strain  y
= =
Longitudinal strain x
(Under unidirectional stress in x-direction)

x The theory of isotropic elasticity allows Poisson's ratios in the range from -1 to 1/2.

x Poisson's ratio in various materials

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Material Poisson's ratio Material Poisson's ratio
Steel 0.25 0.33 Rubber 0.48 0.5
C.I 0.23 0.27 Cork Nearly zero
Concrete 0.2 Novel foam negative

x We use cork in a bottle as the cork easily inserted and removed, yet it also withstand the
pressure from within the bottle. Cork with a Poisson's ratio of nearly zero, is ideal in this
application.

1.12 For bi-axial stretching of sheet

L
1 ln f 1 Lo  Original length
Lo1
L
2 ln f 2 L f -Final length
Lo 2
Initial thickness(t o )
Final thickness (tf) =
e1 u e2
1.13 Elongation
x A prismatic bar loaded in tension by an axial force P
For a prismatic bar loaded in tension by
an axial force P. The elongation of the bar
can be determined as
PL
G
AE
Let us take an example: A Mild Steel wire 5 mm in diameter and 1 m long. If the wire is subjected
to an axial tensile load 10 kN find its extension of the rod. (E = 200 GPa)
PL
Answer: We know that G 
AE
Here given, Force (P) 10 kN 10 u 1000N
Length(L) 1 m
2
Sd2 S u  0.005 
Area(A) m2 1.963 u 105 m2
4 4
Modulous of Elasticity (E ) 200 GPa 200 u 109 N/m2

Therefore Elongation(G )
PL 10 u 1000  u 1 m
AE 1.963 u10  u  200 u 10 
5 9

2.55 u 103 m 2.55 mm

x Elongation of composite body

Elongation of a bar of varying cross section A1, A2,----------,An of lengths l1, l2,--------ln respectively.

P l1 l2 l3 l
G    n
E A1 A2 A3 An

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Let us take an example: A composite rod is 1000 mm long, its two ends are 40 mm2 and 30 mm2 in
area and length are 300 mm and 200 mm respectively. The middle portion of the rod is 20 mm2 in
area and 500 mm long. If the rod is subjected to an axial tensile load of 1000 N, find its total
elongation. (E = 200 GPa).

Answer: Consider the following figure

Given, Load (P) =1000 N

Area; (A1) = 40 mm2, A2 = 20 mm2, A3 = 30 mm2
Length; (l1) = 300 mm, l2 = 500 mm, l3 = 200 mm
E = 200 GPa = 200 u 109 N/m2 = 200 u 103 N/mm2
Therefore Total extension of the rod

P l1 l 2 l 3
G  
E A1 A2 A3
1000 N 300 mm 500 mm 200 mm
u  
200 u 10 N / mm 40 mm 2 20 mm 2 30 mm 2
3 2

0.196mm

x Elongation of a tapered body

Elongation of a tapering rod of length L due to load P at the end

4PL
= (d1 and d2 are the diameters of smaller & larger ends)
S Ed1 d 2
PL PL
You may remember this in this way, = i.e.
S EA eq
E d1 d 2
4
Let us take an example: A round bar, of length L, tapers uniformly from small diameter d1 at one
end to bigger diameter d2 at the other end. Show that the extension produced by a tensile axial load
4PL
P is   = .
S d1 d 2 E
If d2 = 2d1, compare this extension with that of a uniform cylindrical bar having a diameter equal to
the mean diameter of the tapered bar.

Answer: Consider the figure below d1 be the radius at the smaller end. Then at a X cross section XX
located at a distance from the smaller end, the value of diameter dx is equal to

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

dx d1 x d 2 d1
 
2 2 L 2 2
x
or d x d1   d 2  d1 
L
d 2  d1 1
d1 1  kx  Where k u
L d1

We now taking a small strip of diameter 'd x 'and length 'd x 'at section XX .
Elongation of this section 'd x ' length
PL P .dx 4P .dx
d G 
AE S d x2 S .^d1 1  kx ` E
2

uE
4
Therefore total elongation of the taper bar
x L
4P dx
G d G  S Ed 1  kx 
x 0
2 2
1

4PL
S E d1d 2
Comparison: Case-I: Where d2 = 2d1
4PL 2PL
Elongation G I 
S Ed1 u 2d1 S Ed12
Case II: Where we use Mean diameter
d1  d 2 d1  2d1 3
dm d1
2 2 2
PL P .L
Elongation of such bar G II 
AE S 3
2

d1 .E
42
16PL
9S Ed12
Extension of taper bar 2 9
Extension of uniform bar 16 8
9

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x Elongation of a body due to its self weight
(i) Elongation of a uniform rod of length L due to its own weight W

WL
=
2AE
The deformation of a bar under its own weight as compared to that when subjected to
a direct axial load equal to its own weight will be half.
(ii) Total extension produced in rod of length L due to its own weight X per with

Z L2
length. =
2EA

(iii) Elongation of a conical bar due to its self weight

U gL2 WL
=
6E 2 Amax E
1.14 Structural members or machines must be designed such that the working stresses are less

than the ultimate strength of the material.

Vy
Working stress V w  n=1.5 to 2
n
factor of safety
V ult
n1 2 to 3
n1
Vp
Vp Proof stress
n
V y or V p or V ult
1.15 Factor of Safety: (n) =
Vw

1.16 Thermal or Temperature stress and strain

x When a material undergoes a change in temperature, it either elongates or contracts
depending upon whether temperature is increased or decreased of the material.

x If the elongation or contraction is not restricted, i. e. free then the material does not
experience any stress despite the fact that it undergoes a strain.

x The strain due to temperature change is called thermal strain and is expressed as,

H D  'T 
x Where is co-efficient of thermal expansion, a material property, and T is the change in
temperature.

x The free expansion or contraction of materials, when restrained induces stress in the
material and it is referred to as thermal stress.

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Vt D E  'T  Where, E = Modulus of elasticity

x Thermal stress produces the same effect in the material similar to that of mechanical
stress. A compressive stress will produce in the material with increase in temperature
and the stress developed is tensile stress with decrease in temperature.

Let us take an example: A rod consists of two parts that are made of steel and copper as shown in
figure below. The elastic modulus and coefficient of thermal expansion for steel are 200 GPa and
11.7 10-6 per C respectively and for copper 70 GPa and 21.6 10-6 per C respectively. If the
temperature of the rod is raised by 50C, determine the forces and stresses acting on the rod.

Answer: If we allow this rod to freely expand then free expansion

GT D  'T  L
11.7 u10  u 50 u 500   21.6 u10  u 50 u 750
6 6

1.1025 mm  Compressive 

But according to diagram only free expansion is 0.4 mm.

Therefore restrained deflection of rod =1.1025 mm 0.4 mm = 0.7025 mm
Let us assume the force required to make their elongation vanish be P which is the reaction force at
the ends.

PL PL
G 
AE Steel AE Cu
P u 500 P u 750
or 0.7025 
S 2 S 2
u  0.075  u  200 u 10  u  0.050  u  70 u 10 
9 9

4 4
or P 116.6 kN
Therefore, compressive stress on steel rod

P 116.6 u 103
V Steel N/m2 26.39 MPa
ASteel S
u  0.075 
2

4
And compressive stress on copper rod

P 116.6 u 103
V Cu N/m2 59.38 MPa
ACu S
u  0.050 
2

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
1.17 Thermal stress on Brass and Mild steel combination
A brass rod placed within a steel tube of exactly same length. The assembly is making in such a
way that elongation of the combination will be same. To calculate the stress induced in the brass
rod, steel tube when the combination is raised by toC then the following analogy have to do.

(a) Original bar before heating.

(b) Expanded position if the members are allowed to

expand freely and independently after heating.

(c) Expanded position of the compound bar i.e. final

position after heating.

x Compatibility Equation: Assumption:

G G st  G sf G Bt  G Bf 1. L = Ls LB
2. D b ! D s
x Equilibrium Equation:
3. Steel  Tension
V s As V B AB Brass  Compression
Where, G = Expansion of the compound bar = AD in the above figure.
G st = Free expansion of the steel tube due to temperature rise toC = D s L t
= AB in the above figure.
G sf = Expansion of the steel tube due to internal force developed by the unequal expansion.
= BD in the above figure.
G Bt = Free expansion of the brass rod due to temperature rise toC = D b L t
= AC in the above figure.
G Bf = Compression of the brass rod due to internal force developed by the unequal expansion.
= BD in the above figure.
And in the equilibrium equation
Tensile force in the steel tube = Compressive force in the brass rod
Where, V s = Tensile stress developed in the steel tube.

V B = Compressive stress developed in the brass rod.

As = Cross section area of the steel tube.

AB = Cross section area of the brass rod.

Let us take an example: See the Conventional Question Answer section of this chapter and the
question is Conventional Question IES-2008 and its answer.

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
1.18 Maximum stress and elongation due to rotation
UZ 2L2 UZ 2L3
(i) V max and G L 
8 12E

UZ 2L2 UZ 2L3
(ii) V max and G L 
2 3E
For remember: You will get (ii) by multiplying by 4 of (i)

1.18 Creep
When a member is subjected to a constant load over a long period of time it undergoes a slow
permanent deformation and this is termed as creep. This is dependent on temperature. Usually at
elevated temperatures creep is high.

x The materials have its own different melting point; each will creep when the homologous
Testing temperature
temperature > 0.5. Homologous temp = > 0.5
Melting temperature
A typical creep curve shows three distinct stages
with different creep rates. After an initial rapid
elongation o, the creep rate decrease with time
until reaching the steady state.

1) Primary creep is a period of transient creep.

The creep resistance of the material increases
due to material deformation.

2) Secondary creep provides a nearly constant

creep rate. The average value of the creep rate
during this period is called the minimum creep
rate. A stage of balance between competing.
Strain hardening and recovery (softening) of the material.

3) Tertiary creep shows a rapid increase in the creep rate due to effectively reduced cross-
sectional area of the specimen leading to creep rupture or failure. In this stage intergranular
cracking and/or formation of voids and cavities occur.
c2
Creep rate =c1 V

Creep strain at any time = zero time strain intercept + creep rate Time
= 0 c1 V c2 u t
Where, c1 , c2 are constants V stress
1.19 If a load P is applied suddenly to a bar then the stress & strain induced will be double
than those obtained by an equal load applied gradually.

1.20 Stress produced by a load P in falling from height h

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
2h
Vd V 1  1  ,
L
being stress & strain produced by static load P & L=length of bar.

A 2 AEh
1  1 
P PL

1.21 Loads shared by the materials of a compound bar made of bars x & y due to load W,
Ax Ex
Px W.
Ax Ex  Ay E y
Ay E y
Py W.
Ax Ex  Ay E y
PL
1.22 Elongation of a compound bar, G
Ax Ex  Ay E y
1.23 Tension Test

i) True elastic limit: based on micro-strain measurement at strains on order of 2 10-6. Very low
value and is related to the motion of a few hundred dislocations.

ii) Proportional limit: the highest stress at which stress is directly proportional to strain.

iii) Elastic limit: is the greatest stress the material can withstand without any measurable
permanent strain after unloading. Elastic limit > proportional limit.
iv) Yield strength is the stress required to produce a small specific amount of
deformation. The offset yield strength can be determined by the stress
corresponding to the intersection of the stress-strain curve and a line
parallel to the elastic line offset by a strain of 0.2 or 0.1%. ( H = 0.002 or
0.001).

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x The offset yield stress is referred to proof stress either at 0.1 or 0.5% strain used for design
and specification purposes to avoid the practical difficulties of measuring the elastic limit or
proportional limit.

v) Tensile strength or ultimate tensile strength (UTS) V u is the maximum load Pmax divided

by the original cross-sectional area Ao of the specimen.

Lf  Lo
vi) % Elongation, , is chiefly influenced by uniform elongation, which is dependent on the
Lo
strain-hardening capacity of the material.

Ao  Af
vii) Reduction of Area: q
Ao

x Reduction of area is more a measure of the deformation required to produce failure and
its chief contribution results from the necking process.

x Because of the complicated state of stress state in the neck, values of reduction of area
are dependent on specimen geometry, and deformation behaviour, and they should not be
taken as true material properties.

x RA is the most structure-sensitive ductility parameter and is useful in detecting quality

changes in the materials.

viii) Stress-strain response

1.24 Elastic strain and Plastic strain

The strain present in the material after unloading is called the residual strain or plastic strain
and the strain disappears during unloading is termed as recoverable or elastic strain.
Equation of the straight line CB is given by
V total uE  Plastic uE Elastic uE
Carefully observe the following figures and understand which one is Elastic strain and which one is
Plastic strain

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Let us take an example: A 10 mm diameter tensile specimen has a 50 mm gauge length. The load
corresponding to the 0.2% offset is 55 kN and the maximum load is 70 kN. Fracture occurs at 60 kN.
The diameter after fracture is 8 mm and the gauge length at fracture is 65 mm. Calculate the
following properties of the material from the tension test.
(i) % Elongation
(ii) Reduction of Area (RA) %
(iii) Tensile strength or ultimate tensile strength (UTS)
(iv) Yield strength
(v) Fracture strength
(vi) If E = 200 GPa, the elastic recoverable strain at maximum load
(vii) If the elongation at maximum load (the uniform elongation) is 20%, what is the plastic strain
at maximum load?
S 2
Answer: Given, Original area  A0  u  0.010  m2 7.854 u 105 m2
4
S 2
Area at fracture  Af  u  0.008  m2 5.027 u 105 m2
4
Original gauge length (L0) = 50 mm
Gauge length at fracture (L) = 65 mm
Therefore
L  L0 65  50
(i) % Elongation u 100% u 100 30%
L0 50
A0  Af 7.854  5.027
(ii) Reduction of area (RA) = q u 100% u 100% 36%
A0 7.854

Pmax 70 u 103
(iii) Tensile strength or Ultimate tensile strength (UTS), V u N/m2 891 MPa
Ao 7.854 u 10 5

Py 55 u 103
(iv) Yield strength V y  N/m2 700 MPa
Ao 7.854 u 10 5

PFracture 60 u 103
(v) Fracture strength V F  N/m2 764MPa
Ao 7.854 u 10 5

Pmax / Ao 891u 106

(vi) Elastic recoverable strain at maximum load  H E  0.0045
E 200 u 109

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 Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
(vii) Plastic strain  H P  H total  H E 0.2000  0.0045 0.1955

1.25 Elasticity
This is the property of a material to regain its original shape
after deformation when the external forces are removed. When
the material is in elastic region the strain disappears
completely after removal of the load, The stress-strain
relationship in elastic region need not be linear and can be
non-linear (example rubber). The maximum stress value below
which the strain is fully recoverable is called the elastic limit.
It is represented by point A in figure. All materials are elastic
to some extent but the degree varies, for example, both mild
steel and rubber are elastic materials but steel is more elastic
than rubber.

1.26 Plasticity
When the stress in the material exceeds the elastic limit, the
material enters into plastic phase where the strain can no
longer be completely removed. Under plastic conditions
materials ideally deform without any increase in stress. A
typical stress strain diagram for an elastic-perfectly plastic
material is shown in the figure. Mises-Henky criterion gives a
good starting point for plasticity analysis.

1.27 Strain hardening

If the material is reloaded from point C, it will follow the
previous unloading path and line CB becomes its new elastic
region with elastic limit defined by point B. Though the new
elastic region CB resembles that of the initial elastic region
OA, the internal structure of the material in the new state has
changed. The change in the microstructure of the material is
clear from the fact that the ductility of the material has come
down due to strain hardening. When the material is reloaded,
it follows the same path as that of a virgin material and fails
on reaching the ultimate strength which remains unaltered
due to the intermediate loading and unloading process.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
1.28 Stress reversal and stress-strain hysteresis loop
We know that fatigue failure begins at a local discontinuity and when the stress at the discontinuity
exceeds elastic limit there is plastic strain. The cyclic plastic strain results crack propagation and
fracture.
When we plot the experimental data with reversed loading and the true stress strain hysteresis
loops is found as shown below.

True stress-strain plot with a number of stress reversals

Due to cyclic strain the elastic limit increases for annealed steel and decreases for cold drawn steel.
Here the stress range is . p and e are the plastic and elastic strain ranges, the total strain
range being . Considering that the total strain amplitude can be given as
= p+ e

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Stress in a bar due to self-weight

GATE-1. Two identical circular rods of same diameter and same length are subjected to same magnitude
of axial tensile force. One of the rods is made out of mild steel having the modulus of elasticity
of 206 GPa. The other rod is made out of cast iron having the modulus of elasticity of 100 GPa.
Assume both the materials to be homogeneous and isotropic and the axial force causes the same
amount of uniform stress in both the rods. The stresses developed are within the proportional
limit of the respective materials. Which of the following observations is correct?[GATE-2003]
(a) Both rods elongate by the same amount
(b) Mild steel rod elongates more than the cast iron rod
(c) Cast iron rod elongates more than the mild steel rod
(d) As the stresses are equal strains are also equal in both the rods

GATE-2. A steel bar of 40 mm 40 mm square cross-section is subjected to an axial compressive load of

200 kN. If the length of the bar is 2 m and E = 200 GPa, the elongation of the bar will be:
[GATE-2006]
(a) 1.25 mm (b) 2.70 mm (c) 4.05 mm (d) 5.40 mm

True stress and true strain

GATE-3. The ultimate tensile strength of a material is 400 MPa and the elongation up to maximum load
is 35%. If the material obeys power law of hardening, then the true stress-true strain relation
(stress in MPa) in the plastic deformation range is: [GATE-2006]
(a) 540 0.30 (b) 775 0.30 (c) 540 0.35 (d) 775 0.35

Elasticity and Plasticity

GATE-4. An axial residual compressive stress due to a manufacturing process is present on the outer
surface of a rotating shaft subjected to bending. Under a given bending load, the fatigue life of
the shaft in the presence of the residual compressive stress is: [GATE-2008]
(a) Decreased
(b) Increased or decreased, depending on the external bending load
(c) Neither decreased nor increased
(d) Increased

GATE-5. A static load is mounted at the centre of a shaft rotating at uniform angular velocity. This shaft
will be designed for [GATE-2002]
(a) The maximum compressive stress (static) (b) The maximum tensile stress (static)
(c) The maximum bending moment (static) (d) Fatigue loading

GATE-6. Fatigue strength of a rod subjected to cyclic axial force is less than that of a rotating beam of
the same dimensions subjected to steady lateral force because
(a) Axial stiffness is less than bending stiffness [GATE-1992]
(b) Of absence of centrifugal effects in the rod
(c) The number of discontinuities vulnerable to fatigue are more in the rod
(d) At a particular time the rod has only one type of stress whereas the beam has both the
tensile and compressive stresses.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Relation between the Elastic Modulii

GATE-7. A rod of length L and diameter D is subjected to a tensile load P. Which of the following is
sufficient to calculate the resulting change in diameter?
(a) Young's modulus (b) Shear modulus [GATE-2008]
(c) Poisson's ratio (d) Both Young's modulus and shear modulus

GATE-8. In terms of Poisson's ratio () the ratio of Young's Modulus (E) to Shear Modulus (G) of elastic
materials is [GATE-2004]
1 1
(a) 2(1 ) (b) 2(1 ) (c) (1 ) (d ) (1 )
2 2

GATE-9. The relationship between Young's modulus (E), Bulk modulus (K) and Poisson's ratio () is
given by: [GATE-2002]
(a) E 3 K 1 2 (b) K 3 E 1 2
(c) E 3 K 1 (d) K 3 E 1

Stresses in compound strut

GATE-10. In a bolted joint two members are
connected with an axial tightening
force of 2200 N. If the bolt used has
metric threads of 4 mm pitch, then
torque required for achieving the
tightening force is
(a) 0.7Nm (b) 1.0 Nm
(c) 1.4Nm (d) 2.8Nm
[GATE-2004]

GATE-11. The figure below shows a steel rod of 25 mm 2 cross sectional area. It is loaded at four points, K,
L, M and N. [GATE-2004, IES 1995, 1997, 1998]

Assume Esteel = 200 GPa. The total change in length of the rod due to loading is:
(a) 1 m (b) -10 m (c) 16 m (d) -20 m

GATE-12. A bar having a cross-sectional area of 700mm2 is subjected to axial loads at the positions
indicated. The value of stress in the segment QR is: [GATE-2006]

P Q R S
(a) 40 MPa (b) 50 MPa (c) 70 MPa (d) 120 MPa
F.B.D

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
GATE-13. An ejector mechanism consists of a
helical compression spring having a
spring constant of K = 981 103 N/m. It
is pre-compressed by 100 mm from its
free state. If it is used to eject a mass of
100 kg held on it, the mass will move up
through a distance of
(a) 100mm (b) 500mm
(c) 981 mm (d) 1000mm

[GATE-2004]

GATE-14. The figure shows a pair of pin-jointed

gripper-tongs holding an object weighing
2000 N. The co-efficient of friction () at
the gripping surface is 0.1 XX is the line
of action of the input force and YY is the
line of application of gripping force. If the
pin-joint is assumed to be frictionless,
then magnitude of force F required to hold
the weight is:
(a) 1000 N
(b) 2000 N
(c) 2500 N
(d) 5000 N

[GATE-2004]

GATE-15. A uniform, slender cylindrical rod is made of a homogeneous and isotropic material. The rod
rests on a frictionless surface. The rod is heated uniformly. If the radial and longitudinal
thermal stresses are represented by r and z, respectively, then [GATE-2005]
(a) r 0, z 0 (b) r 0, z 0 (c) r 0, z 0 ( d ) r 0, z 0

Thermal Effect
GATE-15(i). A solid steel cube constrained on all six faces is heated so that the temperature
rises uniformly by T. If the thermal coefficient of the material is , Youngs
modulus is E and the Poissons ratio is , the thermal stress developed in the cube
due to heating is
T E 2 T E 3 T E T E
(a) (b) (c ) (d ) [GATE-2012]
1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2

Tensile Test
GATE-16. A test specimen is stressed slightly beyond the yield point and then unloaded. Its yield strength
will [GATE-1995]
(a) Decrease (b) Increase
(c) Remains same (d) Becomes equal to ultimate tensile strength

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
GATE-17. Under repeated loading a material
has the stress-strain curve shown
in figure, which of the following
statements is true?
(a) The smaller the shaded area,
the better the material damping
(b) The larger the shaded area, the
better the material damping
(c) Material damping is an
independent material property
and does not depend on this
curve
(d) None of these
[GATE-1999]

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Stress in a bar due to self-weight

IES-1. A solid uniform metal bar of diameter D and length L is hanging vertically from its upper end.
The elongation of the bar due to self weight is: [IES-2005]
(a) Proportional to L and inversely proportional to D2
(b) Proportional to L2 and inversely proportional to D2
(c) Proportional of L but independent of D
(d) Proportional of U but independent of D

IES-2. The deformation of a bar under its own weight as compared to that when subjected to a direct
axial load equal to its own weight will be: [IES-1998]
(a) The same (b) One-fourth (c) Half (d) Double

IES-3. A rigid beam of negligible weight is supported in a horizontal position by two rods of steel and
aluminum, 2 m and 1 m long having values of cross - sectional areas 1 cm2 and 2 cm2 and E of
200 GPa and 100 GPa respectively. A load P is applied as shown in the figure [IES-2002]

If the rigid beam is to remain horizontal then

(a) The forces on both sides should be equal
(b) The force on aluminum rod should be twice the force on steel
(c) The force on the steel rod should be twice the force on aluminum
(d) The force P must be applied at the centre of the beam

Bar of uniform strength

IES-4. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IES 2007]
A beam is said to be of uniform strength, if
(a) The bending moment is the same throughout the beam

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
(b) The shear stress is the same throughout the beam
(c) The deflection is the same throughout the beam
(d) The bending stress is the same at every section along its longitudinal axis

IES-5. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IES-2006]

Beams of uniform strength vary in section such that
(a) bending moment remains constant (b) deflection remains constant
(c) maximum bending stress remains constant (d) shear force remains constant

IES-6. For bolts of uniform strength, the shank diameter is made equal to [IES-2003]
(a) Major diameter of threads (b) Pitch diameter of threads
(c) Minor diameter of threads (d) Nominal diameter of threads

IES-7. A bolt of uniform strength can be developed by [IES-1995]

(a) Keeping the core diameter of threads equal to the diameter of unthreaded portion of the
bolt
(b) Keeping the core diameter smaller than the diameter of the unthreaded portion
(c) Keeping the nominal diameter of threads equal the diameter of unthreaded portion of the
bolt
(d) One end fixed and the other end free

IES-7a. In a bolt of uniform strength:

(a) Nominal diameter of thread is equal to the diameter of shank of the bolt
(b) Nominal diameter of thread is larger than the diameter of shank of the bolt
(c) Nominal diameter of thread is less than the diameter of shank of the bolt
(d) Core diameter of threads is equal to the diameter of shank of the bolt.
[IES-2011]

Elongation of a Taper Rod

IES-8. Two tapering bars of the same material are subjected to a tensile load P. The lengths of both the
bars are the same. The larger diameter of each of the bars is D. The diameter of the bar A at its
smaller end is D/2 and that of the bar B is D/3. What is the ratio of elongation of the bar A to
that of the bar B? [IES-2006]
(a) 3 : 2 (b) 2: 3 (c) 4 : 9 (d) 1: 3

IES-9. A bar of length L tapers uniformly from diameter 1.1 D at one end to 0.9 D at the other end. The
elongation due to axial pull is computed using mean diameter D. What is the approximate error
in computed elongation? [IES-2004]
(a) 10% (b) 5% (c) 1% (d) 0.5%

IES-10. The stretch in a steel rod of circular section, having a length 'l' subjected to a tensile load' P' and
tapering uniformly from a diameter d 1 at one end to a diameter d2 at the other end, is given
[IES-1995]
Pl pl. pl. 4 pl
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4 Ed1d 2 Ed1d 2 4 Ed1d 2 Ed1d 2

IES-11. A tapering bar (diameters of end sections being d 1 and d2 a bar of uniform cross-section d have
the same length and are subjected the same axial pull. Both the bars will have the same
extension ifd is equal to [IES-1998]
d1 d 2 d1d 2 d1 d 2
a b d1d 2 c d
2 2 2

IES-11(i). A rod of length l tapers uniformly from a diameter D at one end to a diameter d at the other.
The Youngs modulus of the material is E. The extension caused by an axial load P is
[IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
( ) ( )

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Poissons ratio
IES-12. In the case of an engineering material under unidirectional stress in the x-direction, the
Poisson's ratio is equal to (symbols have the usual meanings)
[IAS 1994, IES-2000]
y y y y
(a) (b) (c) (d)
x x x x

IES-13. Which one of the following is correct in respect of Poisson's ratio (v) limits for an isotropic elastic
solid? [IES-2004]
(a) (b) 1/ 4 1/ 3 (c) 1 1/ 2 (d) 1/ 2 1/ 2

IES-14. Match List-I (Elastic properties of an isotropic elastic material) with List-II (Nature of strain
produced) and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists: [IES-1997]
List-I List-II
A. Young's modulus 1. Shear strain
B. Modulus of rigidity 2. Normal strain
C. Bulk modulus 3. Transverse strain
D. Poisson's ratio 4. Volumetric strain
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 1 3 4
(c) 2 1 4 3 (d) 1 2 4 3

IES-15. If the value of Poisson's ratio is zero, then it means that [IES-1994]
(a) The material is rigid.
(b) The material is perfectly plastic.
(c) There is no longitudinal strain in the material
(d) The longitudinal strain in the material is infinite.

IES-16. Which of the following is true (= Poisson's ratio) [IES-1992]

(a) 0 1/ 2 (b) 1 0 (c) 1 1 (d)

IES-16a. If a piece of material neither expands nor contracts in volume when subjected to stress, then the
Poissons ratio must be
(a) Zero (b) 0.25 (c) 0.33 (d) 0.5 [IES-2011]

Elasticity and Plasticity

IES-17. If the area of cross-section of a wire is circular and if the radius of this circle decreases to half
its original value due to the stretch of the wire by a load, then the modulus of elasticity of the
wire be: [IES-1993]
(a) One-fourth of its original value (b) Halved (c) Doubled (d) Unaffected

IES-18. The relationship between the Lames constant , Youngs modulus E and the Poissons ratio
[IES-1997]
E E E E
a (b ) c d
1 1 2 1 2 1 1 1
IES-19. Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? [IES-1994]
1. Resilience Resistance to deformation.
2. Malleability ..Shape change.
3. Creep ........................ Progressive deformation.
4. Plasticity .... .Permanent deformation.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Codes: (a) 2, 3 and 4 (b) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1, 2 and 4 (d) 1, 3 and 4

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IES-19a Match List I with List - II and select the correct answer using the code given below the lists:
[IES-2011]
List I List II
A. Elasticity 1. Deform non-elastically without fracture
B. Malleability 2. Undergo plastic deformation under tensile load
C. Ductility 3. Undergo plastic deformation under compressive load
D. Plasticity 4. Return to its original shape on unloading
Codes A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 4 2 3 1
(c) 1 3 2 4 (d) 4 3 2 1

IES-19b. Assertion (A): Plastic deformation is a function of applied stress, temperature and strain rate.
[IES-2010]
Reason (R): Plastic deformation is accompanied by change in both the internal and external
state of the material.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Creep and fatigue

IES-20. What is the phenomenon of progressive extension of the material i.e., strain increasing with the
time at a constant load, called? [IES 2007]
(a) Plasticity (b) Yielding (b) Creeping (d) Breaking

IES-21. The correct sequence of creep deformation in a creep curve in order of their elongation is:[IES-
2001]
(a) Steady state, transient, accelerated (b) Transient, steady state, accelerated
(c) Transient, accelerated, steady state (d) Accelerated, steady state, transient

IES-22. The highest stress that a material can withstand for a specified length of time without excessive
deformation is called [IES-1997]
(a) Fatigue strength (b) Endurance strength
(c) Creep strength (d) Creep rupture strength

IES-23. Which one of the following features improves the fatigue strength of a metallic material?[IES-
2000]
(a) Increasing the temperature (b) Scratching the surface
(c) Overstressing (d) Under stressing

IES-24. Consider the following statements: [IES-1993]

For increasing the fatigue strength of welded joints it is necessary to employ
1. Grinding 2. Coating 3. Hammer peening
Of the above statements
(a) 1 and 2 are correct (b) 2 and 3 are correct
(c) 1 and 3 are correct (d) 1, 2 and 3 are correct

Relation between the Elastic Modulii

IES-25. For a linearly elastic, isotropic and homogeneous material, the number of elastic constants
required to relate stress and strain is: [IAS 1994; IES-1998]
(a) Two (b) Three (c) Four (d) Six

IES-26. E, G, K and represent the elastic modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus and Poisson's ratio
respectively of a linearly elastic, isotropic and homogeneous material. To express the stress-
strain relations completely for this material, at least [IES-2006]
(a) E, G and must be known (b) E, K and must be known
(c) Any two of the four must be known (d) All the four must be known

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IES-27. The number of elastic constants for a completely anisotropic elastic material which follows
Hooke's law is: [IES-1999]
(a) 3 (b) 4 (c) 21 (d) 25

IES-28. What are the materials which show direction dependent properties, called?
(a) Homogeneous materials (b) Viscoelastic materials [IES 2007, IES-2011]
(c) Isotropic materials (d) Anisotropic materials

IES-29. An orthotropic material, under plane stress condition will have: [IES-2006]
(a) 15 independent elastic constants (b) 4 independent elastic constants
(c) 5 independent elastic constants (d) 9 independent elastic constants

IES-30. Match List-I (Properties) with List-II (Units) and select the correct answer using the codes
given below the lists: [IES-2001]
List I List II
A. Dynamic viscosity 1. Pa
B. Kinematic viscosity 2. m2/s
C. Torsional stiffness 3. Ns/m2
D. Modulus of rigidity 4. N/m
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 2 4 1 (b) 5 2 4 3
(b) 3 4 2 3 (d) 5 4 2 1

IES-31. Young's modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio of a material are 1.25 105 MPa and 0.34
respectively. The modulus of rigidity of the material is:
[IAS 1994, IES-1995, 2001, 2002, 2007]
(a) 0.4025 105 Mpa (b) 0.4664 105 Mpa
(c) 0.8375 105 MPa (d) 0.9469 105 MPa

IES-32. In a homogenous, isotropic elastic material, the modulus of elasticity E in terms of G and K is
equal to [IAS-1995, IES - 1992]
G 3K 3G K 9 KG 9 KG
(a) (b) (c) (d)
9 KG 9 KG G 3K K 3G

IES-33. What is the relationship between the linear elastic properties Young's modulus (E), rigidity
modulus (G) and bulk modulus (K)? [IES-2008]
1 9 3 3 9 1 9 3 1 9 1 3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
E K G E K G E K G E K G

IES-34. What is the relationship between the liner elastic properties Youngs modulus (E), rigidity
modulus (G) and bulk modulus (K)? [IES-2009]
KG 9KG 9 KG 9 KG
(a) E (b) E (c) E (d) E
9K G K G K 3G 3K G

IES-35. If E, G and K denote Young's modulus, Modulus of rigidity and Bulk Modulus, respectively, for
an elastic material, then which one of the following can be possibly true? [IES-2005]
(a) G = 2K (b) G = E (c) K = E (d) G = K = E

IES-36. If a material had a modulus of elasticity of 2.1 106 kgf/cm2 and a modulus of rigidity of 0.8
106 kgf/cm2 then the approximate value of the Poisson's ratio of the material would be:[IES-
1993]
(a) 0.26 (b) 0.31 (c) 0.47 (d) 0.5
IES-37. The modulus of elasticity for a material is 200 GN/m2 and Poisson's ratio is 0.25.
What is the modulus of rigidity? [IES-2004]
(a) 80 GN/m2 (b) 125 GN/m2 (c) 250 GN/m2 (d) 320 GN/m2

IES-38. Consider the following statements: [IES-2009]

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
1. Two-dimensional stresses applied to a thin plate in its own plane represent the plane
stress condition.
2. Under plane stress condition, the strain in the direction perpendicular to the plane is
zero.
3. Normal and shear stresses may occur simultaneously on a plane.
Which of the above statements is /are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 1 and 3

Stresses in compound strut

IES-39. Eight bolts are to be selected for fixing the cover plate of a cylinder subjected to a maximum
load of 980175 kN. If the design stress for the bolt material is 315 N/mm 2, what is the diameter
of each bolt? [IES-2008]
(a) 10 mm (b) 22 mm (c) 30 mm (d) 36 mm

IES-40. For a composite consisting of a bar enclosed inside a tube of another material when compressed
under a load 'w' as a whole through rigid collars at the end of the bar. The equation of
compatibility is given by (suffixes 1 and 2) refer to bar and tube respectively [IES-1998]
W1 W W1 W
(a) W1 W2 W (b) W1 W2 Const. (c ) 2 (d ) 2
A1 E1 A2 E2 A1 E2 A2 E1
IES-41. When a composite unit consisting of a steel rod surrounded by a cast iron tube is subjected to an
axial load. [IES-2000]
Assertion (A): The ratio of normal stresses induced in both the materials is equal to the ratio of
Young's moduli of respective materials.
Reason (R): The composite unit of these two materials is firmly fastened together at the ends to
ensure equal deformation in both the materials.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-42. The figure below shows a steel rod of 25 mm 2 cross sectional area. It is loaded at four points, K,
L, M and N. [GATE-2004, IES 1995, 1997, 1998]

Assume Esteel = 200 GPa. The total change in length of the rod due to loading is
(a) 1 m (b) -10 m (c) 16 m (d) -20 m

IES-43. The reactions at the rigid

supports at A and B for the
bar loaded as shown in the
figure are respectively.
(a) 20/3 kN,10/3 kN
(b) 10/3 kN, 20/3 kN
(c) 5 kN, 5 kN
(d) 6 kN, 4 kN

[IES-2002, IES-2011; IAS-2003]

IES-44. Which one of the following is correct? [IES-2008]

When a nut is tightened by placing a washer below it, the bolt will be subjected to
(a) Compression only (b) Tension
(c) Shear only (d) Compression and shear

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IES-45. Which of the following stresses are associated with the tightening of nut on a bolt?[IES-1998]
1. Tensile stress due to the stretching of bolt
2. Bending stress due to the bending of bolt
3. Crushing and shear stresses in threads
4. Torsional shear stress due to frictional resistance between the nut and the bolt.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below
Codes: (a) 1, 2 and 4 (b) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 3 and 4

Thermal effect
IES-46. A 100 mm 5 mm 5 mm steel bar free to expand is heated from 15C to 40C. What shall be
developed? [IES-2008]
(a) Tensile stress (b) Compressive stress (c) Shear stress (d) No stress

IES-47. Which one of the following statements is correct? [GATE-1995; IES 2007, 2011]
If a material expands freely due to heating, it will develop
(a) Thermal stress (b) Tensile stress (c) Compressive stress (d) No stress

IES-48. A cube having each side of length a, is constrained in all directions and is heated uniformly so
that the temperature is raised to TC. If is the thermal coefficient of expansion of the cube
material and E the modulus of elasticity, the stress developed in the cube is: [IES-2003]
TE TE TE TE
(a) (b) (c) (d)
1 2 2 1 2
IES-49. Consider the following statements: [IES-2002]
Thermal stress is induced in a component in general, when
1. A temperature gradient exists in the component
2. The component is free from any restraint
3. It is restrained to expand or contract freely
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 3 alone (d) 2 alone

IES-50. A steel rod 10 mm in diameter and 1m long is heated from 20C to 120C, E = 200 GPa and =
12 10-6 per C. If the rod is not free to expand, the thermal stress developed is:[IAS-2003, IES-
1997, 2000, 2006]
(a) 120 MPa (tensile) (b) 240 MPa (tensile)
(c) 120 MPa (compressive) (d) 240 MPa (compressive)

IES-51. A cube with a side length of 1 cm is heated uniformly 1 C above the room temperature and all
the sides are free to expand. What will be the increase in volume of the cube? (Given coefficient
of thermal expansion is per C)
(a) 3 cm3 (b) 2 cm3 (c) cm3 (d) zero [IES-2004]

IES-52. A bar of copper and steel form a composite system. [IES-2004, 2012]
They are heated to a temperature of 40 C. What type of stress is induced in the copper bar?
(a) Tensile (b) Compressive (c) Both tensile and compressive (d) Shear

IES-53. =12.510-6 / o C, E = 200 GPa If the rod fitted strongly between the supports as shown in the
figure, is heated, the stress induced in it due to 20oC rise in temperature will be:[IES-1999]
(a) 0.07945 MPa (b) -0.07945 MPa (c) -0.03972 MPa (d) 0.03972 MPa

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

IES-54. The temperature stress is a function of [IES-1992]

1. Coefficient of linear expansion 2. Temperature rise 3. Modulus of elasticity
The correct answer is:
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Impact loading
IES-55. Assertion (A): Ductile materials generally absorb more impact loading than a brittle material
[IES-2004]
Reason (R): Ductile materials generally have higher ultimate strength than brittle materials
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-56. Assertion (A): Specimens for impact testing are never notched. [IES-1999]
Reason (R): A notch introduces tri-axial tensile stresses which cause brittle fracture.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Tensile Test
IES-57. During tensile-testing of a specimen using a Universal Testing Machine, the parameters
actually measured include [IES-1996]
(a) True stress and true strain (b) Poissons ratio and Young's modulus
(c) Engineering stress and engineering strain (d) Load and elongation

IES-58. In a tensile test, near the elastic limit zone [IES-2006]

(a) Tensile stress increases at a faster rate
(b) Tensile stress decreases at a faster rate
(c) Tensile stress increases in linear proportion to the stress
(d) Tensile stress decreases in linear proportion to the stress

IES-59. Match List-I (Types of Tests and Materials) with List-II (Types of Fractures) and select the
correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List I List-II [IES-2002; IAS-2004]
(Types of Tests and Materials) (Types of Fractures)
A. Tensile test on CI 1. Plain fracture on a transverse plane
B. Torsion test on MS 2. Granular helecoidal fracture
C. Tensile test on MS 3. Plain granular at 45 to the axis
D. Torsion test on CI 4. Cup and Cone
5. Granular fracture on a transverse plane
Codes:
A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 2 3 1 (c) 4 1 3 2
(b) 5 1 4 2 (d) 5 2 4 1

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IES-60. Which of the following materials generally exhibits a yield point? [IES-2003]
(a) Cast iron (b) Annealed and hot-rolled mild steel
(c) Soft brass (d) Cold-rolled steel

IES-61. For most brittle materials, the ultimate strength in compression is much large then the
ultimate strength in tension. The is mainly due to [IES-1992]
(a) Presence of flaws and microscopic cracks or cavities
(b) Necking in tension
(c) Severity of tensile stress as compared to compressive stress
(d) Non-linearity of stress-strain diagram

IES-61(i). A copper rod 400 mm long is pulled in tension to a length of 401.2 mm by applying a tensile load
of 330 MPa. If the deformation is entirely elastic, the Youngs modulus of copper is
[IES-2012]
(a) 110 GPA (b) 110 MPa (c) 11 GPa (d) 11 MPa

IES-62. What is the safe static tensile load for a M36 4C bolt of mild steel having yield stress of 280
MPa and a factor of safety 1.5? [IES-2005]
(a) 285 kN (b) 190 kN (c) 142.5 kN (d) 95 kN

IES-63. Which one of the following properties is more sensitive to increase in strain rate?[IES-2000]
(a) Yield strength (b) Proportional limit (c) Elastic limit (d) Tensile strength

IES-64. A steel hub of 100 mm internal diameter and uniform thickness of 10 mm was heated to a
temperature of 300oC to shrink-fit it on a shaft. On cooling, a crack developed parallel to the
direction of the length of the hub. Consider the following factors in this regard:[IES-1994]
1. Tensile hoop stress 2. Tensile radial stress
3. Compressive hoop stress 4. Compressive radial stress
The cause of failure is attributable to
(a) 1 alone (b) 1 and 3 (c) 1, 2 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4

IES-65. If failure in shear along 45 planes is to be avoided, then a material subjected to uniaxial
tension should have its shear strength equal to at least [IES-1994]
(a) Tensile strength (b) Compressive strength
(c) Half the difference between the tensile and compressive strengths.
(d) Half the tensile strength.

IES-66. Select the proper sequence [IES-1992]

1. Proportional Limit 2. Elastic limit 3. Yielding 4. Failure
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4 (b) 2, 1, 3, 4 (c) 1, 3, 2, 4 (d) 1, 2, 3, 4

IES-67. Elastic limit of cast iron as compared to its ultimate breaking strength is
(a) Half (b) Double [IES-2012]
(c) Approximately (d) None of the above

IES-68. Statement (I): Steel reinforcing bars are used in reinforced cement concrete.
Statement (II): Concrete is weak in compression. [IES-2012]
(a) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true and Statement (II) is the correct
explanation of Statement (I)
(b) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true but Statement (II) is not the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(c) Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
(d) Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Stress in a bar due to self-weight

IAS-1. A heavy uniform rod of length 'L' and material density '' is hung vertically with its top end
rigidly fixed. How is the total elongation of the bar under its own weight expressed?[IAS-2007]
2 L2 g L2 g L2 g L2 g
(a) (b) (c) (d)
E E 2E 2E

IAS-2. A rod of length 'l' and cross-section area A rotates about an axis passing through one end of the
rod. The extension produced in the rod due to centrifugal forces is (w is the weight of the rod per
unit length and is the angular velocity of rotation of the rod). [IAS 1994]
wl 2 2 wl 3 2 wl 3 3gE
(a) (b) (c) (d)
gE 3 gE gE 2 wl 3

Elongation of a Taper Rod

IAS-3. A rod of length, " " tapers uniformly from a diameter ''D1' to a diameter ''D2' and carries an
axial tensile load of "P". The extension of the rod is (E represents the modulus of elasticity of the
material of the rod) [IAS-1996]
4 P1 4 PE1 EP1 P1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
ED1 D2 D1 D2 4 D1D2 4 ED1D2

Poissons ratio
IAS-4. In the case of an engineering material under unidirectional stress in the x-direction, the
Poisson's ratio is equal to (symbols have the usual meanings)
[IAS 1994, IES-2000]
y y y y
(a) (b) (c) (d)
x x x x

IAS-5. Assertion (A): Poisson's ratio of a material is a measure of its ductility.

Reason (R): For every linear strain in the direction of force, Poisson's ratio of the material gives
the lateral strain in directions perpendicular to the direction of force. [IAS-1999]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-6. Assertion (A): Poisson's ratio is a measure of the lateral strain in all direction perpendicular to
and in terms of the linear strain. [IAS-1997]
Reason (R): The nature of lateral strain in a uni-axially loaded bar is opposite to that of the
linear strain.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Elasticity and Plasticity

IAS-7. A weight falls on a plunger fitted in a container filled with oil thereby producing a pressure of
1.5 N/mm2 in the oil. The Bulk Modulus of oil is 2800 N/mm 2. Given this situation, the
volumetric compressive strain produced in the oil will be: [IAS-1997]
(a) 400 10-6 (b) 800 106 (c) 268 106 (d) 535 10-6

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Relation between the Elastic Modulii

IAS-8. For a linearly elastic, isotropic and homogeneous material, the number of elastic constants
required to relate stress and strain is: [IAS 1994; IES-1998]
(a) Two (b) Three (c) Four (d) Six

IAS-9. The independent elastic constants for a homogenous and isotropic material are
(a) E, G, K, v (b) E, G, K (c) E, G, v (d) E, G [IAS-1995]

IAS-10. The unit of elastic modulus is the same as those of [IAS 1994]
(a) Stress, shear modulus and pressure (b) Strain, shear modulus and force
(c) Shear modulus, stress and force (d) Stress, strain and pressure.

IAS-11. Young's modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio of a material are 1.25 105 MPa and 0.34
respectively. The modulus of rigidity of the material is:
[IAS 1994, IES-1995, 2001, 2002, 2007]
(a) 0.4025 105 MPa (b) 0.4664 105 MPa
(c) 0.8375 105 MPa (d) 0.9469 105 MPa

IAS-12. The Young's modulus of elasticity of a material is 2.5 times its modulus of rigidity. The Posson's
ratio for the material will be: [IAS-1997]
(a) 0.25 (b) 0.33 (c) 0.50 (d) 0.75

IAS-13. In a homogenous, isotropic elastic material, the modulus of elasticity E in terms of G and K is
equal to [IAS-1995, IES - 1992]
G 3K 3G K 9 KG 9 KG
(a) (b) (c) (d)
9 KG 9 KG G 3K K 3G

IAS-14. The Elastic Constants E and K are related as ( is the Poissons ratio) [IAS-1996]
(a) E = 2k (1 2 ) (b) E = 3k (1- 2 ) (c) E = 3k (1 + ) (d) E = 2K(1 + 2 )

IAS-15. For an isotropic, homogeneous and linearly elastic material, which obeys Hooke's law, the
number of independent elastic constant is: [IAS-2000]
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 6

IAS-16. The moduli of elasticity and rigidity of a material are 200 GPa and 80 GPa, respectively. What
is the value of the Poisson's ratio of the material? [IAS-2007]
(a) 030 (b) 026 (c) 025 (d) 024

Stresses in compound strut

IAS-17. The reactions at the rigid supports at A and B for the bar loaded as shown in the figure are
respectively. [IES-2002; IAS-2003]
(a) 20/3 kN,10/3 Kn (b) 10/3 kN, 20/3 kN (c) 5 kN, 5 kN (d) 6 kN, 4 kN

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Thermal effect
IAS-18. A steel rod 10 mm in diameter and 1m long is heated from 20C to 120C, E = 200 GPa and =
12 10-6 per C. If the rod is not free to expand, the thermal stress developed is:[IAS-2003, IES-
1997, 2000, 2006]
(a) 120 MPa (tensile) (b) 240 MPa (tensile)
(c) 120 MPa (compressive) (d) 240 MPa (compressive)

A. steel rod of diameter 1 cm and 1 m long is heated from 20C to 120C. Its 12 10 / K
6
IAS-19.
and E=200 GN/m2. If the rod is free to expand, the thermal stress developed in it is:[IAS-2002]
(a) 12 104 N/m2 (b) 240 kN/m2 (c) zero (d) infinity

IAS-20. Which one of the following pairs is NOT correctly matched? [IAS-1999]
(E = Young's modulus, = Coefficient of linear expansion, T = Temperature rise, A = Area of
cross-section, l= Original length)
(a) Temperature strain with permitted expansion .. ( Tl )
(b) Temperature stress .. TE
(c) Temperature thrust .. TEA
E (Tl )
(d) Temperature stress with permitted expansion ..
l

Impact loading
IAS-21. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
[IAS-1995]
List I (Property) List II (Testing Machine)
A. Tensile strength 1. Rotating Bending Machine
B. Impact strength 2. Three-Point Loading Machine
C. Bending strength 3. Universal Testing Machine
D. Fatigue strength 4. Izod Testing Machine
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 3 2 1 (b) 3 2 1 4
(c) 2 1 4 3 (d) 3 4 2 1

Tensile Test
IAS-22. A mild steel specimen is tested in tension up to fracture in a Universal Testing Machine. Which
of the following mechanical properties of the material can be evaluated from such a test?[IAS-
2007]
1. Modulus of elasticity 2. Yield stress 3. Ductility
4. Tensile strength 5. Modulus of rigidity
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 3, 5 and 6 (b) 2, 3, 4 and 6 (c) 1, 2, 5 and 6 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

IAS-23. In a simple tension test, Hooke's law is valid upto the [IAS-1998]
(a) Elastic limit (b) Limit of proportionality (c) Ultimate stress (d) Breaking point

IAS-24. Lueder' lines on steel specimen under simple tension test is a direct indication of yielding of
material due to slip along the plane [IAS-1997]
(a) Of maximum principal stress (b) Off maximum shear
(c) Of loading (d) Perpendicular to the direction of loading

IAS-25. The percentage elongation of a material as obtained from static tension test depends upon the
[IAS-1998]
(a) Diameter of the test specimen (b) Gauge length of the specimen
(c) Nature of end-grips of the testing machine (d) Geometry of the test specimen

IAS-26. Match List-I (Types of Tests and Materials) with List-II (Types of Fractures) and select the
correct answer using the codes given below the lists:

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
List I List-II [IES-2002; IAS-2004]
(Types of Tests and Materials) (Types of Fractures)
A. Tensile test on CI 1. Plain fracture on a transverse plane
B. Torsion test on MS 2. Granular helecoidal fracture
C. Tensile test on MS 3. Plain granular at 45 to the axis
D. Torsion test on CI 4. Cup and Cone
5. Granular fracture on a transverse plane
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 2 3 1 (c) 4 1 3 2
(b) 5 1 4 2 (d) 5 2 4 1

IAS-27. Assertion (A): For a ductile material stress-strain curve is a straight line up to the yield point.
[IAS-2003]
Reason (R): The material follows Hooke's law up to the point of proportionality.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-28. Assertion (A): Stress-strain curves for brittle material do not exhibit yield point.[IAS-1996]
Reason (R): Brittle materials fail without yielding.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-29. Match List I (Materials) with List II (Stress-Strain curves) and select the correct answer using
the codes given below the Lists: [IAS-2001]

Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 1 4 1 (b) 3 2 4 2
(c) 2 4 3 1 (d) 4 1 3 2

IAS-30. The stress-strain curve of an ideal elastic strain hardening material will be as

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

[IAS-1998]
IAS-31. An idealised stress-strain curve for a perfectly plastic material is given by

[IAS-1996]

IAS-32. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists:
[IAS-2002]
List I List II
A. Ultimate strength 1. Internal structure
B. Natural strain 2. Change of length per unit instantaneous length
C. Conventional strain 3. Change of length per unit gauge length
D. Stress 4. Load per unit area
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 4 3 2 1
(c) 1 3 2 4 (d) 4 2 3 1

IAS-33. What is the cause of failure of a short MS strut under an axial load? [IAS-2007]
(a) Fracture stress (b) Shear stress (c) Buckling (d) Yielding

IAS-34. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given the lists:[IAS-1995]
List I List II
A. Rigid-Perfectly plastic

B. Elastic-Perfectly plastic

C. Rigid-Strain hardening

D. Linearly elastic

Codes: A B C D A B C D

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
(a) 3 1 4 2 (b) 1 3 2 4
(c) 3 1 2 4 (d) 1 3 4 2

IAS-35. Which one of the following materials is highly elastic? [IAS-1995]

(a) Rubber (b) Brass (c) Steel (d) Glass

IAS-36. Assertion (A): Hooke's law is the constitutive law for a linear elastic material.
Reason (R) Formulation of the theory of elasticity requires the hypothesis that there exists a
unique unstressed state of the body, to which the body returns whenever all the forces are
removed. [IAS-2002]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-37. Consider the following statements: [IAS-2002]

1. There are only two independent elastic constants.
2. Elastic constants are different in orthogonal directions.
3. Material properties are same everywhere.
4. Elastic constants are same in all loading directions.
5. The material has ability to withstand shock loading.
Which of the above statements are true for a linearly elastic, homogeneous and isotropic
material?
(a) 1, 3, 4 and 5 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 2 and 5

IAS-38. Which one of the following pairs is NOT correctly matched? [IAS-1999]
(a) Uniformly distributed stress . Force passed through the centroid of the
cross-section
(b) Elastic deformation . Work done by external forces during
deformation is dissipated fully as heat
(c) Potential energy of strain . Body is in a state of elastic deformation
(d) Hooke's law . Relation between stress and strain

IAS-39. A tensile bar is stressed to 250 N/mm 2 which is beyond its elastic limit. At this stage the strain
produced in the bar is observed to be 0.0014. If the modulus of elasticity of the material of the
bar is 205000 N/mm2 then the elastic component of the strain is very close to [IAS-1997]
(a) 0.0004 (b) 0.0002 (c) 0.0001 (d) 0.00005

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
PL 1
GATE-1. Ans. (c) L or L [AsP, L and A is same]
AE E
L mild steel ECI 100
L CI L MS
L C.I EMS 206
PL 200 1000 2
GATE-2. Ans. (a) L m 1.25mm
AE 0.04 0.04 200 109
(a) 540 0.30 (b) 775 0.30 (c) 540 0.35 (d) 775 0.35

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
GATE-3. Ans. (c)
A true stress true strain curve in
tension k n
k = Strength co-efficient = 400
(1.35) = 540 MPa
n = Strain hardening exponent =
0.35

GATE-4. Ans. (d)

A cantilever-loaded rotating beam, showing the normal distribution of surface stresses. (i.e.,
tension at the top and compression at the bottom)

The residual compressive stresses induced.

Net stress pattern obtained when loading a surface treated beam. The reduced magnitude of the
tensile stresses contributes to increased fatigue life.
GATE-5. Ans. (d)
GATE-6. Ans. (d)
GATE-7. Ans. (d) For longitudinal strain we need Young's modulus and for calculating transverse strain we
need Poisson's ratio. We may calculate Poisson's ratio from E 2G(1 ) for that we need
Shear modulus.
GATE-8. Ans. (a)
9KG
GATE-9. Ans. (a) Remember E 2G 1 3K 1 2
3K G
0.004
GATE-10. Ans. (c) T F r 2200 Nm 1.4Nm
2
GATE-11. Ans. (b) First draw FBD of all parts separately then

PL
Total change in length = AE
GATE-12. Ans. (a)

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

F.B.D
P 28000
QR MPa 40MPa
A 700
GATE-15. Ans. (a) Thermal stress will develop only when you prevent the material to contrast/elongate. As
here it is free no thermal stress will develop.
3 3 3
DV p a (1 + a T ) - a
GATE-15(i). Ans. (a) = =
V K a3
p
Or = 3a T
E
3 (1- 2u )
T E T E
Or p or stress( ) p i.e. compressive
1 2 1 2

Same question was asked in IES-2003 please refer question no. IES-48 in this chapter.
GATE-16. Ans. (b)

GATE-17. Ans. (a)

IES
WL WL 1
IES-1. Ans. (a) L &
2AE D2 D2
2 E
4
IES-2. Ans. (c)
IES-3. Ans. (b)
IES-4. Ans. (d)
IES-5. Ans. (c)
IES-6. Ans. (c)
IES-7. Ans. (a)
IES-7a. Ans. (d)
PL
IES-8. Ans. (b) Elongation of a taper rod l

d1d2E
4
l A d2 B D / 3 2
or
lB d2 A D / 2 3

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
PL PL
IES-9. Ans. (c) Actual elongation of the bar lact

4 d1d2 E 4 1.1D 0.9D E

PL
Calculated elongation of the bar l Cal
D2
E
4
lact lcal D2
Error % 100 1 100% 1%
lcal 1.1D 0.9D
PL
IES-10. Ans. (d) Actual elongation of the bar lact

4 d1d2 E

IES-11. Ans. (b)
IES-11(i). Ans. (c)
IES-12. Ans. (a)
IES-13. Ans. (c) Theoretically 1 1/ 2 but practically 0 1/ 2
IES-14. Ans. (c)
IES-15. Ans. (a) If Poisson's ratio is zero, then material is rigid.
IES-16. Ans. (a)
IES-16a. Ans. (d)
IES-17. Ans. (d) Note: Modulus of elasticity is the property of material. It will remain same.
IES-18. Ans. (a)
IES-19. Ans. (a) Strain energy stored by a body within elastic limit is known as resilience.
IES-19a. Ans. (d)
IES-19b. Ans. (b) Plastic deformation
Following the elastic deformation, material undergoes plastic deformation.
Also characterized by relation between stress and strain at constant strain rate and temperature.
Microscopicallyit involves breaking atomic bonds, moving atoms, then restoration of bonds.
Stress-Strain relation here is complex because of atomic plane movement, dislocation movement,
and the obstacles they encounter.
Crystalline solids deform by processes slip and twinning in particular directions.
Amorphous solids deform by viscous flow mechanism without any directionality.
Equations relating stress and strain are called constitutive equations.
A true stress-strain curve is called flow curve as it gives the stress required to cause the material to
flow plastically to certain strain.
IES-20. Ans. (c)
IES-21. Ans. (b)
IES-22. Ans. (c)
IES-23. Ans. (d)
IES-24. Ans. (c) A polished surface by grinding can take more number of cycles than a part with rough
surface. In Hammer peening residual compressive stress lower the peak tensile stress
IES-25. Ans. (a)
IES-26. Ans. (c)
IES-27. Ans. (c)
IES-28. Ans. (d)
IES-29. Ans. (d)
IES-30. Ans. (a)
IES-31. Ans.(b) E 2G(1 ) or 1.25x105 = 2G(1+0.34) or G = 0.4664 105 MPa
IES-32. Ans. (c)
9KG
IES-33. Ans. (d) E 2G 1 3K 1 2
3K G
9KG
IES-34. Ans. (d) E 2G 1 3K 1 2
3K G
9KG
IES-35. Ans.(c) E 2G 1 3K 1 2
3K G

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
1
the value of must be between 0 to 0.5 so E never equal to G but if then
3
E k so ans. is c
IES-36. Ans. (b) Use E 2G 1
E 200
IES-37. Ans. (a) E 2G 1 or G 80GN / m2
2 1 2 1 0.25
IES-38. Ans. (d) Under plane stress condition, the strain in the direction perpendicular to the plane is not
zero. It has been found experimentally that when a body is stressed within elastic limit, the
lateral strain bears a constant ratio to the linear strain. [IES-2009]
d2 P 980175
IES-39. Ans. (b) Total load P 8 or d 22.25mm
4 2 2 315
IES-40. Ans. (c) Compatibility equation insists that the change in length of the bar must be compatible with
the boundary conditions. Here (a) is also correct but it is equilibrium equation.
IES-41. Ans. (a)
IES-42. Ans. (b) First draw FBD of all parts separately then

PL
Total change in length = AE
IES-43. Ans. (a) Elongation in AC = length reduction in CB
RA 1 RB 2

AE AE
And RA + RB = 10
IES-44. Ans. (b)
IES-45. Ans. (d)
IES-46. Ans. (d) If we resist to expand then only stress will develop.
IES-47. Ans. (d)
3 3 3
D V s = (p) a (1 + a T ) - a
IES-48. Ans. (b) = =
V K a3
p
Or = 3a T
E
3 (1- 2g )
IES-49. Ans. (c)

IES-50. Ans. (d) Et 12 106 200 103 120 20 240MPa
It will be compressive as elongation restricted.
IES-51. Ans. (a) co-efficient of volume expansion 3 co efficient of linear expansion
IES-52. Ans. (b)
IES-53. Ans. (b) Let compression of the spring = x m
Therefore spring force = kx kN
Expansion of the rod due to temperature rise = Lt

Reduction in the length due to compression force =

kx L
AE

Now Lt
kx L x
AE
0.5 12.5 106 20
Or x 0.125mm


50 0.5

1
0.010 200 106
2

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
kx 50 0.125
Compressive stress = 0.07945MPa
A 0.0102

4
IES-54. Ans. (d) Stress in the rod due to temperature rise = t E
IES-55. Ans. (c)
IES-56. Ans. (d) A is false but R is correct.
IES-57. Ans. (d)
IES-58. Ans. (b)
IES-59. Ans. (d)
IES-60. Ans. (b)
IES-61. Ans. (a)
IES-61(i). Ans. (a)
W d2
IES-62. Ans. (b) c or W c ;
d2 4
4
W c d2 280 362
Wsafe N 190kN
fos fos 4 1.5 4
IES-63. Ans. (b)
IES-64. Ans. (a) A crack parallel to the direction of length of hub means the failure was due to tensile hoop
stress only.
IES-65. Ans. (d)
IES-66. Ans. (d)

IES-67. Ans. (c)

IES-68. Ans. (c)

IAS
WL ALg L L2 g
IAS-1. Ans. (d) Elongation due to self weight =
2 AE 2 AE 2E
IAS-2. Ans. (b)
Pl
IAS-3. Ans. (a) The extension of the taper rod =

4 D1D2 .E

IAS-4. Ans. (a)
IAS-5. ans. (d)
IAS-6. Ans. (b)
P P 1.5
IAS-7. Ans. (d) Bulk modulus of elasticity (K) = or v 535 106
v K 2800
IAS-8. Ans. (a)
IAS-9. Ans. (d)
IAS-10. Ans. (a)
IAS-11. Ans.(b) E 2G(1 ) or 1.25x105 = 2G(1+0.34) or G = 0.4664 105 MPa

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
E E 2.5
IAS-12. Ans. (a) E 2G 1 1 1 1 0.25
2G 2G 2
IAS-13. Ans. (c)
IAS-14. Ans. (b) E = 2G (1 + ) = 3k (1- 2 )
IAS-15. Ans. (b) E, G, K and represent the elastic modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus and poisons
ratio respectively of a linearly elastic, isotropic and homogeneous material. To express the
stress strain relations completely for this material; at least any two of the four must be
9 KG
known. E 2G 1 3K 1 3
3K G
E 200
IAS-16. Ans. (c) E = 2G (1+ ) or = 1 1 0.25
2G 2 80
IAS-17. Ans. (a) Elongation in AC = length reduction in CB
RA 1 RB 2

AE AE
And RA + RB = 10

IAS-18. Ans. (d) Et 12 106 200 103 120 20 240MPa
It will be compressive as elongation restricted.
IAS-19. Ans. (c) Thermal stress will develop only if expansion is restricted.
IAS-20. Ans. (a) Dimensional analysis gives (a) is wrong
IAS-21. Ans. (d)
IAS-22. Ans. (d)
IAS-23. Ans. (b)
IAS-24. Ans. (b)
IAS-25. Ans. (b)
IAS-26. Ans. (d)
IAS-27. Ans. (d)
IAS-28. Ans. (a) Up to elastic limit.
IAS-29. Ans. (b)
IAS-30. Ans. (d)
IAS-31. Ans. (a)
IAS-32. Ans. (a)
IAS-33. Ans. (d) In compression tests of ductile materials fractures is seldom obtained. Compression is
accompanied by lateral expansion and a compressed cylinder ultimately assumes the shape of a
flat disc.
IAS-34. Ans. (a)
IAS-35. Ans. (c) Steel is the highly elastic material because it is deformed least on loading, and regains its
original from on removal of the load.
IAS-36. Ans. (a)
IAS-37. Ans. (a)
IAS-38. Ans. (b)
IAS-39. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-2010
Q. If a load of 60 kN is applied to a rigid bar
suspended by 3 wires as shown in the
above figure what force will be resisted
by each wire?

The outside wires are of Al, cross-

sectional area 300 mm2 and length 4 m.
The central wire is steel with area 200
mm2 and length 8 m.
Initially there is no slack in the wires
E 2 10 5 N / m m 2 for Steel
0.667 10 N / m m for Aluminum
5 2

[2 Marks]

Ans.

A luminium w ir e
FA1
F St FA1
St eel w ir e

60k N
P 60 kN
a A1 300 mm 2 l A1 4 m
a st 200 mm 2 l st 8 m
E A1 0.667 10 5 N / m m 2
Est 2 105 N / mm 2
Force balance along vertical direction
2F A1 Fs t 60 k N (1)
Elongation will be same in all wires because rod is rigid remain horizontal after loading
F A1 l A1 F .l
st st (2)
a Al .E Al a s t .E s t
FA1 4 Fs t 8

300 0.667 10 5
200 2 10 5
FA1 1.0005 Fs t (3)
60 10 3
From equation (1) Fs t 19.99 k N o r 20 k N
3.001

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
FA1 20 kN
FA1 20 k N
Answer.
Fst 20 k N

Conventional Question GATE

Question: The diameters of the brass and steel segments of the axially loaded bar shown in figure are 30
mm and 12 mm respectively. The diameter of the hollow section of the brass segment is 20
mm.
Determine: (i) The maximum normal stress in the steel and brass (ii) The displacement of the free end ;
Take Es = 210 GN/m2 and Eb = 105 GN/m2

12 36 mm2 36 106 m2
2
Answer: As
4

Ab BC 30 225 mm2 225 106 m2
2

4

Ab CD
4

302 202 125 mm2 125 106 m2

(i) The maximum normal stress in steel and brass:

10 103
s 106 MN / m2 88.42MN / m2
36 106
5 103
b BC 106 MN / m2 7.07MN / m2
225 106
5 103
b CD 106 MN / m2 12.73MN / m2
125 10 6

(ii) The displacement of the free end:

l ls AB lb BC lb CD
88.42 0.15 7.07 0.2 12.73 0.125 l
9
210 10 10 6
9
105 10 10 6

105 109 10 6 l E

9.178 105 m 0.09178 mm

Conventional Question IES-1999

Question: Distinguish between fatigue strength and fatigue limit.
Answer: Fatigue strength as the value of cyclic stress at which failure occurs after N cycles. And
fatigue limit as the limiting value of stress at which failure occurs as N becomes very large
(sometimes called infinite cycle)

Conventional Question IES-1999

Question: List at least two factors that promote transition from ductile to brittle fracture.
Answer: (i) With the grooved specimens only a small reduction in area took place, and the
appearance of the facture was like that of brittle materials.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
(ii) By internal cavities, thermal stresses and residual stresses may combine with the effect
of the stress concentration at the cavity to produce a crack. The resulting fracture will
have the characteristics of a brittle failure without appreciable plastic flow, although
the material may prove ductile in the usual tensile tests.

Conventional Question IES-1999

Question: Distinguish between creep and fatigue.
Answer: Fatigue is a phenomenon associated with variable loading or more precisely to cyclic stressing
or straining of a material, metallic, components subjected to variable loading get fatigue,
which leads to their premature failure under specific conditions.
When a member is subjected to a constant load over a long period of time it undergoes a slow
permanent deformation and this is termed as ''Creep''. This is dependent on temperature.

Conventional Question IES-2008

Question: What different stresses set-up in a bolt due to initial tightening, while used as a
fastener? Name all the stresses in detail.
Answer: (i) When the nut is initially tightened there will be some elongation in the bolt so tensile
stress will develop.
(ii) While it is tightening a torque across some shear stress. But when tightening will be
completed there should be no shear stress.

Conventional Question IES-2008

Question: A Copper rod 6 cm in diameter is placed within a steel tube, 8 cm external diameter
and 6 cm internal diameter, of exactly the same length. The two pieces are rigidly
fixed together by two transverse pins 20 mm in diameter, one at each end passing
through both rod and the tube.
Calculated the stresses induced in the copper rod, steel tube and the pins if the
temperature of the combination is raised by 50oC.
[Take ES=210 GPa, s = 0.0000115 / C ; Ec=105 GPa, c = 0.000017 / C ]
o o

Answer:

c s
+ = t (c s )
Ec Es
d 2 6 2
2
3 2
Area of copper rod(A c ) = = m = 2.8274 10 m
4 4 100
d 2 8 6 2
2 2
3 2
Area of steel tube (A s ) = = m = 2.199110 m
4 4 100 100
Rise in temperature,t = 50o C
Free expansion of copper bar=c L+t
Free expansion of steel tube =s L+t
Difference in free expansion = (c s ) L+t
=(17-11.5)106 L 50=2.7510-4L m
A compressive force (P) exerted by the steel tube on the copper rod opposed the extra
expansion of the copper rod and the copper rod exerts an equal tensile force P to pull the steel

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Reduction in the length of copper rod due to force P Newton=
PL PL
(VL )C = = m
A c E c (2.8275 10 - 3 )(105 10 9 )
Increase in length of steel tube due to force P
PL P .L
(VL )S = = m
A s E s (2.1991 10 - 3 )(210 10 9 )
Difference in length is equated
(VL)c + (VL)s = 2.75 10- 4 L
PL P.L
- 3 9
+ - 3 9
= 2.75 10- 4 L
(2.8275 10 )(105 10 ) (2.1991 10 )(210 10 )
Or P = 49.695 kN
P 49695
Stress in copper rod, s c = = MPa=17.58MPa
Ac 2.8275 10- 3
P 49695
Stress in steel tube, s s = = MPa = 22.6MPa
As 2.1991 10- 3
Since each of the pin is in double shear, shear stress in pins ( t pin )
P 49695
= = = 79 MPa
2 Apin 2 p (0.02)2
4

Conventional Question IES-2002

Question: Why are the bolts, subjected to impact, made longer?
Answer: If we increase length its volume will increase so shock absorbing capacity will increased.

Conventional Question IES-2007

Question: Explain the following in brief:
(i) Effect of size on the tensile strength
(ii) Effect of surface finish on endurance limit.
Answer: (i) When size of the specimen increases tensile strength decrease. It is due to the reason
that if size increases there should be more change of defects (voids) into the material
which reduces the strength appreciably.
(ii) If the surface finish is poor, the endurance strength is reduced because of scratches
present in the specimen. From the scratch crack propagation will start.

Conventional Question IES-2004

Question: Mention the relationship between three elastic constants i.e. elastic modulus (E), rigidity
modulus (G), and bulk modulus (K) for any Elastic material. How is the Poisson's ratio ( )
related to these modulli?
9KG
Answer: E =
3K + G
9KG
E = 3K (1- 2) = 2G(1+ ) =
3K + G

Conventional Question IES-1996

Question: The elastic and shear moduli of an elastic material are 210 11 Pa and 81010 Pa respectively.
Determine Poisson's ratio of the material.
9KG
Answer: We know that E = 2G(1+ ) = 3K(1- 2) =
3K + G

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
E
or,1 + =
2G
E 2 1011
or = 1= 1 = 0.25
2G 2 (8 1010 )

Conventional Question IES-2003

Question: A steel bolt of diameter 10 mm passes through a brass tube of internal diameter 15
mm and external diameter 25 mm. The bolt is tightened by a nut so that the length
of tube is reduced by 1.5 mm. If the temperature of the assembly is raised by 40oC,
estimate the axial stresses the bolt and the tube before and after heating. Material
properties for steel and brass are:
ES = 2105 N / mm 2 S = 1.2105 / o C and Eb= 1105 N/mm2 b=1.910-15/oC
Answer:

Area of steel bolt (A s )= (0.010)2 m 2 = 7.854 105 m 2
4

Area of brass tube (A b )= (0.025)2 (0.015)2 = 3.1416 104
4
Stress due to tightening of the nut
Compressive force on brass tube= tensile fore on steel bolt
or, b Ab = S As


(l )b
or , Eb. .Ab = s As E= =
L

L

Let assume total length ( )=1m
(1.5 103 )
Therefore (1105 106 ) (3.1416 104 ) = s 7.85410-5
1
or s = 600 MPa (tensile )
(l )b (1.5 103 )
and b =Eb. = (1105 ) MPa = 150MPa (Compressive )
1
So before heating
Stress in brass tube (b ) = 150MPa (compressive )
Stress in steel bolt( s ) = 600MPa (tensile)

Stress due to rise of temperature

' '
Let stress b & s are due to brass tube and steel bolt.
If the two members had been free to expand,

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Free expansion of steel = s +t 1
Free expansion of brass tube = b +t 1
Since b > s free expansion of copper is greater than the free expansion of steel. But they
are rigidly fixed so final expansion of each members will be same. Let us assume this final
expansion is ' ', The free expansion of brass tube is grater than , while the free expansion of
steel is less than . Hence the steel rod will be subjected to a tensile stress while the brass
tube will be subjected to a compressive stress.

For the equilibrium of the whole system,

Total tension (Pull) in steel =Total compression (Push) in brass tube.

As 7.854 105 '
'b Ab = s' As or , b' = 's
= 4
S = 0.25S'
Ab 3.14 10
Final expansion of steel =final expansion of brass tube
s' '
s (+t ).1 + 1 = b (+t ) 1 b 1
Es Eb
s' 'b
or ,(1.2 105 ) 40 1 + = (1.9 105
) 40 1 (ii )
2 105 106 1105 106
From(i) & (ii) we get
1 0.25
s' + = 2.8 104
2 1011 1011

'
or , s = 37.33 MPa (Tensile stress)
or, b' = 9.33MPa (compressive)
Therefore, the final stresses due to tightening and temperature rise
Stress in brass tube = b + b' =150+9.33MPa=159.33MPa
Stress in steel bolt = s + 's = 600 + 37.33 = 637.33MPa.

Conventional Question IES-1997

Question: A Solid right cone of axial length h is made of a material having density and
elasticity modulus E. It is suspended from its circular base. Determine its
elongation due to its self weight.
Answer: See in the figure MNH is a solid right cone of
length 'h' .
Let us assume its wider end of diameterd fixed
rigidly at MN.
Now consider a small strip of thickness dy at a
distance y from the lower end.
Let 'ds' is the diameter of the strip.
1 d 2
Weight of portion UVH= s y g ( i )
3 4
From the similar triangles MNH and UVH,
MN d A
= =
UV ds y
d .y
or , ds = ( ii )
A
force at UV Weight of UVH
Stress at section UV = =
cross sec tion area at UV ds2

4

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals

1 d s2
. .y .g
1
=3 4 2 = y g
ds 3

4
1
y g .dy
3
So, extension in dy=
E
1
h y gdy
3 gh 2
Total extension of the bar = =
0
E 6E

From stress-strain relation ship

.A
E= = or , d A =
dA E
A

Conventional Question IES-2004

Question: Which one of the three shafts listed hare has the highest ultimate tensile strength?
Which is the approximate carbon content in each steel?
(i) Mild Steel (ii) cast iron (iii) spring steel
Answer: Among three steel given, spring steel has the highest ultimate tensile strength.
Approximate carbon content in
(i) Mild steel is (0.3% to 0.8%)
(ii) Cost iron (2% to 4%)
(iii) Spring steel (0.4% to 1.1%)

Conventional Question IES-2003

Question: If a rod of brittle material is subjected to pure torsion, show with help of a sketch,
the plane along which it will fail and state the reason for its failure.
Answer: Brittle materials fail in tension. In a torsion test the maximum tensile test Occurs at 45 to
the axis of the shaft. So failure will occurs along a 45o to the axis of the shaft. So failure will
occurs along a 45 helix
X
X
So failures will occurs according to 45 plane.

Conventional Question IAS-1995

Question: The steel bolt shown in Figure has a thread pitch of 1.6 mm. If the nut is initially
tightened up by hand so as to cause no stress in the copper spacing tube, calculate
the stresses induced in the tube and in the bolt if a spanner is then used to turn the
nut through 90.Take Ec and Es as 100 GPa and 209 GPa respectively.
Answer: Given: p = 1.6 mm, Ec= 100 GPa ; Es = 209 CPa.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Stresses induced in the tube and the bolt, c , s :
2

10
As 7.584 105 m2
4 1000
18 12
2 2
5 2
A s 14.14 10 m
4 1000 1000
Tensile force on steel bolt, Ps = compressive force in copper tube, Pc = P
Also, Increase in length of bolt + decrease in length of tube = axial displacement of nut
90
i,e ls lc 1.6 0.4mm 0.4 10 3 m
360
Pl Pl
or 0.4 103 ls lc l
A sEs A cEc
100 1 1
or P 5 9
5 9
0.4 103
1000 7.854 10 209 10 14.14 10 100 10
or P 30386N
P P
386.88MPa and 214.89MPa
As Ac

Conventional Question AMIE-1997

Question: A steel wire 2 m long and 3 mm in diameter is extended by 075 mm when a weight W is
suspended from the wire. If the same weight is suspended from a brass wire, 25 m long and 2
mm in diameter, it is elongated by 4 -64 mm. Determine the modulus of elasticity of brass if
that of steel be 2.0 105 N / mm2
Answer: Given, ls 2 m, ds = 3 mm, ls 075 mm; Es = 20 105 N / mm2; lb 2.5 m, db
=2 mm lb 4.64m m and let modulus of elasticity of brass = Eb
Pl
Hooke's law gives, l [Symbol has usual meaning]
AE
Case I: For steel wire:
Pls
ls
A sEs
P 2 1000 ---- (i)
or 0.75
2 5 1
4 3 2.0 10 2000

Case II: For bass wire:
Plb
lb
A bEb
P 2.5 1000
4.64 ---- (ii)
2
4 2 Eb

1
or P 4.64 22 Eb
4 2500
From (i) and (ii), we get
1 1
0.75 32 2.0 105 4.64 22 Eb
4 2000 4 2500
or Eb 0.909 105 N / mm2

Conventional Question AMIE-1997

Question: A steel bolt and sleeve assembly is shown in figure below. The nut is tightened up on the tube
through the rigid end blocks until the tensile force in the bolt is 40 kN. If an external load 30

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
kN is then applied to the end blocks, tending to pull them apart, estimate the resulting force
in the bolt and sleeve.

2
25 4 2
Answer: Area of steel bolt, A b 4.908 10 m
1000
62.5 50
2 2
3 2
Area of steel sleeve, A s 1.104 10 m
4 1000 1000
Forces in the bolt and sleeve:
(i) Stresses due to tightening the nut:
Let b = stress developed in steel bolt due to tightening the nut; and
s = stress developed in steel sleeve due to tightening the nut.
Tensile force in the steel bolt = 40 kN = 004 MN
b A b 0.04
or b 4.908 10 4 0.04
0.04
b 81.5MN / m2 tensile
4.908 10 4
Compressive force in steel sleeve = 004 MN
s A s 0.04
or s 1.104 10 3 0.04
0.04
s 3
36.23MN / m2 compressive
1.104 10
(ii) Stresses due to tensile force:
Let the stresses developed due to tensile force of 30 kN = 003 MN in steel bolt and sleeve be
'b and 's respectively.
Then, 'b A b 's A s 0.03
'b 4.908 104 's 1.104 103 0.03 (i)
In a compound system with an external tensile load, elongation caused in each will be the
same.

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Chapter-1 Stress and Strain S K Mondals
'b
lb lb
Eb
'b
or lb 0.5 Given,lb 500mm 0.5
Eb
's
and ls 0.4 Given,ls 400mm 0.4
Es
But lb s
'b 's
0.5 0.4
Eb Es
or 'b 0.8 's Given,Eb Es (2)
Substituting this value in (1), we get
0.8 's 4.908 10 4 's 1.104 10 3 0.03
gives 's 20MN / m2 tensile
and 'b 0.8 20 16MN / m2 tensile
Re sulting stress in steel bolt,
b r b 'b 81.5 16 97.5MN / m2
Re sulting stress in steel sleeve,
s r s 's 36.23 20 16.23MN / m2 compressive
Re sulting force in steel bolt, b r A b
97.5 4.908 10 4 0.0478MN tensile
Re sulting force in steel sleeve b r A s
16.23 1.104 10 3 0.0179MN compressive

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 2. Principal Stress and Strain

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

2.1 States of stress
x Uni-axial stress: only one non-zero
principal stress, i.e. 1
Right side figure represents Uni-axial state of
stress.

x Bi-axial stress: one principal stress

equals zero, two do not, i.e. 1 > 3 ; 2 = 0
Right side figure represents Bi-axial state of
stress.

x Tri-axial stress: three non-zero

principal stresses, i.e. 1 > 2 > 3
Right side figure represents Tri-axial state of
stress.

x Isotropic stress: three principal

stresses are equal, i.e. 1 = 2 = 3
Right side figure represents isotropic state of
stress.

x Axial stress: two of three principal

stresses are equal, i.e. 1 = 2 or 2 = 3
Right side figure represents axial state of
stress.

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 Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x Hydrostatic pressure: weight of column of
fluid in interconnected pore spaces.
Phydrostatic = fluid gh (density, gravity, depth)

x Hydrostatic stress: Hydrostatic stress is

used to describe a state of tensile or
compressive stress equal in all directions
within or external to a body. Hydrostatic Or

stress causes a change in volume of a

material. Shape of the body remains
unchanged i.e. no distortion occurs in the
body.
Right side figure represents Hydrostatic state of
stress.

2.2 Uni-axial stress on oblique plane

Let us consider a bar of uniform cross sectional area A under direct tensile load P giving rise to axial
normal stress P/A acting on a cross section XX. Now consider another section given by the plane YY
inclined at T with the XX. This is depicted in following three ways.

Fig. (a)
Fig. (b)

Fig. (c)
A
Area of the YY Plane = ; Let us assume the normal stress in the YY plane is Vn and there is
cos T
a shear stress W acting parallel to the YY plane.
Now resolve the force P in two perpendicular direction one normal to the plane YY = P cos T and

another parallel to the plane YY = Pcos

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

A P
Therefore equilibrium gives, Vn
cos T
P cos T or Vn cos 2 T
A
P
Wu
A
P sin T W
P
sin T cos T
W sin 2T
and
cos T
or
A
or 2A
x Note the variation of normal stress Vn and shear stress W with the variation of T .

P
When T 0 , normal stress V n is maximum i.e. V n max and shear stress W 0 . As T is
A
increased, the normal stress V n diminishes, until when T 0, V n 0. But if angle

P S
T increased shear stress W increases to a maximum value W max at T 45o and then
2A 4
diminishes to W 0 at T 90o

x The shear stress will be maximum when sin 2T 1 or T 45o

P
x And the maximum shear stress, W max
2A

x In ductile material failure in tension is initiated by shear stress i.e. the failure occurs across
the shear planes at 45o (where it is maximum) to the applied load.
Let us clear a concept about a common mistake: The angle T is not between the applied load
and the plane. It is between the planes XX and YY. But if in any question the angle between the
applied load and the plane is given dont take it as T . The angle between the applied load and the
plane is 90 - T. In this case you have to use the above formula as

P P
Vn cos2 (90  T ) and W sin(180  2T ) where T is the angle between the applied load and the
A 2A
plane. Carefully observe the following two figures it will be clear.

Let us take an example: A metal block of 100 mm2 cross sectional area carries an axial tensile load
of 10 kN. For a plane inclined at 300 with the direction of applied load, calculate:
(a) Normal stress
(b) Shear stress
(c) Maximum shear stress.

Answer: Here T 90o  30o 60o

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 Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
P 10 u 103 N
(a) Normal stress V n  cos2 T 2
u cos2 60o 25MPa
A 100 mm

P 10 u 103 N
(b) Shear stress W  sin2T 2
u sin120o 43.3MPa
2A 2 u 100 mm

P 10 u 103 N
(c) Maximum shear stress W max  50MPa
2A 2 u 100 mm 2

x Complementary stresses
Now if we consider the stresses on an oblique plane YY which is perpendicular to the previous
plane YY. The stresses on this plane are known as complementary stresses. Complementary

normal stress is V nc and complementary shear stress is W c . The following figure shows all
the four stresses. To obtain the stresses V nc and W c we need only to replace T by T  900 in the
previous equation. The angle T  900 is known as aspect angle.

Therefore
P P 2
V nc cos 2  90o  T  sin T
A A
P P
Wc sin 2  90o  T   sin 2T
2A 2A

P
It is clear V nc  V n and W c W
A
i.e. Complementary shear stresses are always equal in magnitude but opposite in sign.

x Sign of Shear stress

For sign of shear stress following rule have to be followed:

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The shear stress W on any face of the element will be considered positive when it has a
clockwise moment with respect to a centre inside the element. If the moment is counter-
clockwise with respect to a centre inside the element, the shear stress in negative.
Note: The convention is opposite to that of moment of force. Shear stress tending to turn clockwise is
positive and tending to turn counter clockwise is negative.

Let us take an example: A prismatic bar of 500 mm2 cross sectional area is axially loaded with a
tensile force of 50 kN. Determine all the stresses acting on an element which makes 300 inclination
with the vertical plane.

Answer: Take an small element ABCD in 300 plane as shown in figure below,
Given, Area of cross-section, A = 500 mm2, Tensile force (P) = 50 kN

P 50103 N
Normal stress on 30 inclined plane,  n
= cos 2
= 2
cos2 30o =75MPa (+ive means tensile).
A 500 mm

P 50 u 103 N
Shear stress on 30 planes, W  sin2T u sin  2 u 30o  43.3MPa
2A 2 u 500 mm 2
(+ive means clockwise)
Complementary stress on T  90  30 120o

P 50 u 103 N
Normal stress on 1200 inclined plane, V nc  cos2 T u cos2 120o 25MPa
A 500 mm 2
(+ ive means tensile)

P 50 u 103 N
Shear stress on 1200 nclined plane, W c  sin2T 2
u sin  2 u 120o   43.3MPa
2A 2 u 500 mm
(- ive means counter clockwise)
State of stress on the element ABCD is given below (magnifying)

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2.3 Complex Stresses (2-D Stress system)

i.e. Material subjected to combined direct and shear stress
We now consider a complex stress system below. The given figure ABCD shows on small element of
material

Stresses in three dimensional element Stresses in cross-section of the element

Vx and Vy are normal stresses and may be tensile or compressive. We know that normal stress

may come from direct force or bending moment. W xy is shear stress. We know that shear stress may

comes from direct shear force or torsion and W xy and W yx are complementary and

W xy = W yx
Let Vn is the normal stress and W is the shear stress on a plane at angle T .

Considering the equilibrium of the element we can easily get

V x V y V x V y
Normal stress V n   cos 2T  W xy sin 2T
2 2
and

x  y
Shear stress W  sin 2 - W xy cos 2
2
Above two equations are coming from considering equilibrium. They do not depend on material
properties and are valid for elastic and in elastic behavior.

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x Location of planes of maximum stress

(a) Normal stress, V n max
For Vn maximum or minimum

wV n
0, where V n
V x  Vy 

V x Vy 
cos 2T  W xy sin 2T
wT 2 2

or 
V x Vy 
u  sin 2T  u 2  W xy  cos 2T  u 2 0 or tan2T p =
2W xy
2 (V x  V y )

(b) Shear stress, W max

For W maximum or minimum

wW Vx Vy
0, where W sin 2T  W xy cos 2T
wT 2
Vx Vy
or  cos 2T  u 2  W xy   sin 2T  u 2 0
2
W xy
or cot 2T
Vx Vy

Let us take an example: At a point in a crank shaft the stresses on two mutually perpendicular
planes are 30 MPa (tensile) and 15 MPa (tensile). The shear stress across these planes is 10 MPa.
Find the normal and shear stress on a plane making an angle 300 with the plane of first stress. Find
also magnitude and direction of resultant stress on the plane.

Answer: Given V x 25MPa  tensile  , V y 15MPa  tensile  , W xy 10MPa and 400

V x V y V x V y
Therefore, Normal stress V n   cos 2T  W xy sin2T
2 2
30  15 30  15
 cos  2 u 30o   10 sin  2 u 30o  34.91 MPa
2 2
V x V y
Shear stress W  sin2T  W xy cos 2T
2
30  15
sin  2 u 30o   10cos  2 u 30o  1.5MPa
2
2
Resultant stress V r   34.91  1.52 34.94MPa
W 1.5
and Obliquity I  , tanI I 2.460
Vn 34.91

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2.4 Bi-axial stress

Let us now consider a stressed element ABCD where W xy =0, i.e. only V x and V y is there. This type

of stress is known as bi-axial stress. In the previous equation if you put W xy =0 we get Normal stress,

V n and shear stress, W on a plane at angle T .

Vx V y V x V y
x Normal stress , Vn  cos 2T
2 2
V x V y
x Shear/Tangential stress, W sin 2T
2
x For complementary stress, aspect angle = T  900
x Aspect angle varies from 0 to S /2
x Normal stress V n varies between the values
V x (T 0) & V y (T S / 2)
Let us take an example: The principal tensile stresses at a point across two perpendicular planes
are 100 MPa and 50 MPa. Find the normal and tangential stresses and the resultant stress and its
obliquity on a plane at 200 with the major principal plane

Answer: Given V x 100MPa  tensile  , V y 50MPa  tensile  and T 200

Vx Vy V x V y 100  50 100  50

Normal stress, V n   cos 2T  cos  2 u 20o  94MPa
2 2 2 2
V x V y 100  50
Shear stress, W 
2
sin2T
2

sin 2 u 200  16MPa

Resultant stress V r  942  162 95.4MPa

W 16
Therefore angle of obliquity, I  tan1 tan1 9.70
Vn 94

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x We may derive uni-axial stress on oblique plane from

Vx V y V x V y
Vn  cos 2T  W xy sin 2T
2 2
and x  y
W sin 2 - W xy cos 2
2
Just put V y 0 and W xy =0

Therefore,
Vx  0 Vx  0 1
Vn  cos 2T V x 1  cos 2T  V x cos2 T
2 2 2
Vx  0 Vx
and W sin 2T sin 2T
2 2

2.5 Pure Shear

x Pure shear is a particular case of bi-axial stress where Vx V y

Note: V x or V y which one is compressive that is immaterial but one should be tensile and

other should be compressive and equal magnitude. If V x 100MPa then

V y must be  100MPa otherwise if V y 100MPa then V x must be  100MPa .

x In case of pure shear on 45o planes

W max rV x ; Vn 0 and V nc 0
x We may depict the pure shear in an element by following two ways

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(a) In a torsion member, as shown below, an element ABCD is in pure shear (only shear
stress is present in this element) in this member at 45o plane an element AcBcC cDc is also

in pure shear where V x V y but in this element no shear stress is there.

(b) In a bi-axial state of stress a member, as shown below, an element ABCD in pure shear
where V x V y but in this element no shear stress is there and an element AcBcC cDc at

45o plane is also in pure shear (only shear stress is present in this element).

Let us take an example: See the in the Conventional question answer section in this chapter and
the question is Conventional Question IES-2007

2.6 Stress Tensor

x State of stress at a point ( 3-D)

Stress acts on every surface that passes through the point. We can use three mutually
perpendicular planes to describe the stress state at the point, which we approximate as a cube
each of the three planes has one normal component & two shear components therefore, 9
components necessary to define stress at a point 3 normal and 6 shear stress.
Therefore, we need nine components, to define the state of stress at a point
V x W xy W xz
V y W yx W yz
V z W zx W zy
For cube to be in equilibrium (at rest: not moving, not spinning)

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W xy W yx If they dont offset, block spins therefore,

W xz W zx only six are independent.
W yz W zy

The nine components (six of which are independent) can be written in matrix form

V xx V xy V xz W xx W xy W xz V x W xy W xz V 11 V 12 V 13

V ij V yx V yy V yz or W ij W yx W yy W yz W yx V y W yz V 21 V 22 V 23
V V zy V zz W W zz W V z V
zx zx W zy zx W zy 31 V 32 V 33
This is the stress tensor
Components on diagonal are normal stresses; off are shear stresses

x State of stress at an element (2-D)

2.7 Principal stress and Principal plane

x When examining stress at a point, it is possible to choose three mutually perpendicular
planes on which no shear stresses exist in three dimensions, one combination of
orientations for the three mutually perpendicular planes will cause the shear stresses on all
three planes to go to zero this is the state defined by the principal stresses.

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x Principal stresses are normal stresses that are orthogonal to
each other
x Principal planes are the planes across which principal
stresses act (faces of the cube) for principal stresses (shear
stresses are zero)

x Major Principal Stress

2
Vx V y V x V y 2
V1 
 W xy
2 2
x Minor principal stress

2
Vx V y V x V y 2
V2 
 W xy
2 2
x Position of principal planes

2W xy
tan2T p =
(V x  V y )
x Maximum shear stress

2
V1  V 2 V x V y 2
W max  W xy
2 2
Let us take an example: In the wall of a cylinder the state of stress is given by,

Vx 85MPa  compressive  , V y 25MPa  tensile  and shear stress W xy  60MPa

Calculate the principal planes on which they act. Show it in a figure.

Answer: Given V x 85MPa,V y 25MPa,W xy 60MPa

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2
Vx Vy V x V y
Major principal stress V 1    W xy
2

2 2
2
85  25 85  25 2
  60 51.4MPa
2 2
2
Vx Vy V x V y
Minor principal stress V 2    W xy
2

2 2
2
85  25 85  25 2
  60
2 2
111.4 MPa i.e. 111.4 MPa  Compressive 

For principalplanes
2W xy 2 u 60
tan2TP
V x V y 85  25

or TP 240 it is for V 1
Complementary plane TP c T P  90 660 it is for V 2
The Figure showing state of stress and principal stresses is given below

The direction of one principle plane and the principle stresses acting on this would be V 1 when is

acting normal to this plane, now the direction of other principal plane would be 900 + T p because the

principal planes are the two mutually perpendicular plane, hence rotate the another plane 900 + T p

in the same direction to get the another plane, now complete the material element as T p is negative

that means we are measuring the angles in the opposite direction to the reference plane BC. The
following figure gives clear idea about negative and positive T p .

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2.8 Mohr's circle for plane stress

x The transformation equations of plane stress can be represented in a graphical form which is
popularly known as Mohr's circle.
x Though the transformation equations are sufficient to get the normal and shear stresses on
any plane at a point, with Mohr's circle one can easily visualize their variation with respect
to plane orientation .

x Equation of Mohr's circle

Vx V y V x V y
We know that normal stress, Vn  cos 2T  W xy sin 2T
2 2
x  y
And Tangential stress, sin2 - xy cos 2
2
V x V y V x V y
Rearranging we get, V n  cos 2T  W xy sin 2T (i)
2 2

x  y
and sin2 - xy cos 2 (ii)
2
A little consideration will show that the above two equations are the equations of a circle with Vn
and U as its coordinates and 2 as its parameter.
If the parameter 2 is eliminated from the equations, (i) & (ii) then the significance of them will
become clear.
2
Vx V y V x V y 2
V avg and R =  W xy
2 2
2
Or V n  V avg   W xy2 R2

Vx V y
It is the equation of a circle with centre, V avg ,0  i.e. 2
,0

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 Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
2
V x V y 2
and radius, R  W xy
2

x Construction of Mohrs circle

Convention for drawing
x A W xy that is clockwise (positive) on a face resides above the V axis; a W xy
anticlockwise (negative) on a face resides below V axis.
x Tensile stress will be positive and plotted right of the origin O. Compressive stress
will be negative and will be plotted left to the origin O.

x An angle T on real plane transfers as an angle 2T on Mohrs circle plane.

We now construct Mohrs circle in the following stress conditions

I. Bi-axial stress when V x and V y known and W xy = 0

II. Complex state of stress ( V x ,V y and W xy known)

I. Constant of Mohrs circle for Bi-axial stress (when only V x and Vy known)

If V x and V y both are tensile or both compressive sign of V x and V y will be same and this state of
stress is known as like stresses if one is tensile and other is compressive sign of V x and V y will
be opposite and this state of stress is known as unlike stress.

x Construction of Mohrs circle for like stresses (when V x and V y are same type of stress)
Step-I: Label the element ABCD and draw all stresses.

Step-II: Set up axes for the direct stress (as abscissa) i.e., in x-axis and shear stress (as
ordinate) i.e. in Y-axis

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Step-III: Using sign convention and some suitable scale, plot the stresses on two adjacent faces
e.g. AB and BC on the graph. Let OL and OM equal to V x and V y respectively on the
axis O V.

Step-IV: Bisect ML at C. With C as centre and CL or CM as radius, draw a circle. It is the

Mohrs circle.

T
Step-V: At the centre C draw a line CP at an angle 2 , in the same direction as the normal to
the plane makes with the direction of V x . The point P represents the state of
stress at plane ZB.

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Step-VI: Calculation, Draw a perpendicular PQ and PR where PQ = W and PR = V n

Vx  Vy Vx  Vy
OC and MC = CL = CP =
2 2
Vx  Vy Vx  Vy
PR = V  cos 2T
n 2 2
Vx  Vy
PQ = W = CPsin 2T = sin 2T
2
[Note: In the examination you only draw final figure (which is in Step-V) and follow the
procedure step by step so that no mistakes occur.]

x Construction of Mohrs circle for unlike stresses (when V x and V y are opposite in sign)
Follow the same steps which we followed for construction for like stresses and finally will get
the figure shown below.

Note: For construction of Mohrs circle for principal stresses when ( V 1 andV 2 is known) then follow
the same steps of Constant of Mohrs circle for Bi-axial stress (when only V x and V y known) just

change the V x V 1 and V y V 2

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II. Construction of Mohrs circle for complex state of stress ( V x , V y and W xy known)

Step-I: Label the element ABCD and draw all stresses.

Step-II: Set up axes for the direct stress (as abscissa) i.e., in x-axis and shear stress (as
ordinate) i.e. in Y-axis

Step-III: Using sign convention and some suitable scale, plot the stresses on two adjacent faces
e.g. AB and BC on the graph. Let OL and OM equal to V x and V y respectively on the
axis O V . Draw LS perpendicular to oV axis and equal to W xy .i.e. LS=W xy . Here LS

is downward as W xy on AB face is ( ive) and draw MT perpendicular to oV axis and

equal to W xy i.e. MT=W xy . Here MT is upward as W xy BC face is (+ ive).

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Step-IV: Join ST and it will cut o axis at C. With C as centre and CS or CT as radius, draw
circle. It is the Mohrs circle.

Step-V: At the centre draw a line CP at an angle 2 in the same direction as the normal to the
plane makes with the direction of x .

Step-VI: Calculation, Draw a perpendicular PQ and PR where PQ = and PR = n

x +y
Centre, OC =
2
2
2 2 x y
Radius CS = ( CL ) + (LS ) = + xy 2 = CT = CP
2

x + y x y
PR = = + cos 2 + sin 2
n 2 2 xy
x y
PQ = = sin 2 xy cos 2 .
2
[Note: In the examination you only draw final figure (which is in Step-V) and follow the
procedure step by step so that no mistakes occur.]

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 Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Note: The intersections of oV axis are two principal stresses, as shown below.

Let us take an example: See the in the Conventional question answer section in this chapter and
the question is Conventional Question IES-2000

2.9 Mohr's circle for some special cases:

i) Mohrs circle for axial loading:

P
Vx ; Vy W xy 0
A
ii) Mohrs circle for torsional loading:

Tr
W xy ; Vx Vy 0
J
It is a case of pure shear
iii) In the case of pure shear

(1 = - 2 and 3 = 0)

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Vx V y
W max rV x
iv) A shaft compressed all round by a hub

1 = 2 = 3 = Compressive (Pressure)
v) Thin spherical shell under internal pressure

pr pD
V1 V2 (tensile)
2t 4t
vi) Thin cylinder under pressure

pD pr pd pr
V1 (tensile) and V 2 (tensile)
2t t 4t 2t
vii) Bending moment applied at the free end of a cantilever

My
Only bending stress, V 1 and V 2 W xy 0
I

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2.10 Strain
Normal strain
Let us consider an element AB of infinitesimal length x. After deformation of the actual body if
wu
displacement of end A is u, that of end B is u+ .G x. This gives an increase in length of element AB
wx
wu wu wu
is u+ .G x - u G x and therefore the strain in x-direction is H x
wx wx wx
wQ ww
Similarly, strains in y and z directions are H y and H z .
wx wz
Therefore, we may write the three normal strain components
wu wQ ww
Hx ; Hy ; and Hz .
wx wy wz

Change in length of an infinitesimal element.

Shear strain
Let us consider an element ABCD in x-y plane and let the displaced position of the element be
AcBcCcDc .This gives shear strain in x-y plane as J xy v  E where v is the angle made by the

displaced live BcCc with the vertical and E is the angle made by the displaced line A cDc with the

wu wQ
.G y .G x
wx wu wQ
horizontal. This gives v and E = wx
Gy wy Gx wx
We may therefore write the three shear strain components as
wu wQ wQ ww ww wu
J xy  ; J yz  and J zx 
wy wx wz wy wx wz
Therefore the state of strain at a point can be completely described by the six strain components
and the strain components in their turns can be completely defined by the displacement components
u,Q , and w.

Therefore, the complete strain matrix can be written as

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w
wx 0 0

0 w
H x 0
w y

H
y w
H 0 0 u
z wz
X
J xy w w
0 w
J wx wy
yz
J zx 0 w w
wy wz

w 0
w
wz wx

Shear strain associated with the distortion of an infinitesimal element.

Strain Tensor
The three normal strain components are
wu wQ ww
H x H xx ; Hy H yy and Hz H zz .
wx wy wz
The three shear strain components are
J xy 1 wu wQ J yz 1 wQ ww J zx 1 wu ww
xy  ; yz  and zx 
2 2 wy wx 2 2 wz wy 2 2 wz wx
Therefore the strain tensor is
J xy J xz
xx
xx xy xz 2 2
J yx J yz
ij yx yy yz yy
2 2
zx zy zz J zx J zy
zz
2 2

Constitutive Equation
The constitutive equations relate stresses and strains and in linear elasticity. We know from the
Hooks law V  E.H
Where E is modulus of elasticity

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Vx
It is known that V x produces a strain of in x-direction
E
Vx Vx
and Poissons effect gives  P in y-direction and P in z-direction.
E E
Therefore we my write the generalized Hooks law as
1 1 1
x V x  P V y  V z  , V y  P V z  V x  and z
y V z  P V x  V y 
E E E
It is also known that the shear stress, W GJ , where G is the shear modulus and J is shear strain.
We may thus write the three strain components as
W xy W yz W zx
J xy , J yz and J zx
G G G
In general each strain is dependent on each stress and we may write
H x K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 V x
V
H y K 21 K 22 K 23 K 24 K 25 K 26 y
H K 31 K 32 K 33 K 34 K 35 K 36 V z
z

J xy K 41 K 42 K 43 K 44 K 45 K 46 W xy
J K K K K K K
yz 51 52 53 54 55 56 W yz
J zx K 61 K 62 K 63 K 64 K 65 K 66 W
zx
? The number of elastic constant is 36 (For anisotropic materials)
For isotropic material
1
K11 K 22 K 33
E
1
K 44 K 55 K 66
G
P
K12 K13 K 21 K 23 K 31 K 32 
E
Rest of all elements in K matrix are zero.
For isotropic material only two independent elastic constant is there say E and G.

x 1-D Strain
Let us take an example: A rod of cross sectional area Ao is
loaded by a tensile force P.
P
Its stresses Vx , Vy 0, and V z 0
Ao

1-D state of stress or Uni-axial state of stress

V xx 0 0 W xx 0 0 V x 0 0

V ij 0 0 0 or W ij 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Therefore strain components are

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Vx Vx Vx
x ; y  P  P x ; and z P  P x
E E E

1-D state of strain or Uni-axial state of strain

Vx
E 0 0
Hx 0 0 py 0 0
Vx
H ij 0  PH x 0 0 P 0 0 qy 0
E
0 0  PH x
0 0 qy
0 V
0  P x
E
x 2-D Strain (V z 0)

1
(i) x V x  PV y
E
1
y V y  PV x
E
P
z  V x  V y
E
[Where, x ,y ,z are strain component in X, Y, and Z axis respectively]

E
(ii) Vx  P y
2 x
1 P
E
Vy  P x
2 y
1 P
x 3-D Strain
1
(i) x V x  P V y  V z 
E
1
y V y  P V z  V x 
E
1
z V z  P V x  V y 
E
E
(ii) Vx 1  P  x  P y  z 
1  P 1  2 P 

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E
Vy 1  P  y  P z  x 
1  P 1  2P 
E
Vz 1  P  z  P x  y 
1  P 1  2P 

Let us take an example: At a point in a loaded member, a state of plane stress exists and the

strains are H x 270 u 10 6 ; Hy 90 u 106 and H xy 360 u 10 6 . If the elastic constants

E, P and G are 200 GPa, 0.25 and 80 GPa respectively.

Determine the normal stress V x and V y and the shear stress W xy at the point.

Answer: We know that

1
Hx
E
^V x  PV y `
1
. Hy
E
^V y  PV x `
W xy
H xy
G
E 200 u 109
This gives V x
1 P 2
^H x  PH y ` 270 u 106  0.25 u 90 u 106 Pa
1  0.252
52.8 MPa (i.e. tensile)

E
and V y H y  PH x
1 P 2
200 u 109
90 u 106  0.25 u 270 u 106 Pa  4.8 MPa (i.e.compressive)
1  0.252
and W xy H xy .G 360 u 106 u 80 u 109 Pa 28.8MPa

J xy
2.12 An element subjected to strain components x ,y &
2
Consider an element as shown in the figure given. The strain component In X-direction is x , the

strain component in Y-direction is y and the shear strain component is J xy .

Now consider a plane at an angle T with X- axis in this plane a normal strain T and a shear

strain J T . Then

x  y x  y J xy
x T  cos 2T  sin 2T
2 2 2
JT x  y J xy
x  sin 2T  cos 2T
2 2 2

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We may find principal strain and principal plane for strains in the same process which we

followed for stress analysis.

In the principal plane shear strain is zero.

Therefore principal strains are

2 2
x  y x  y J xy
1,2 r 
2 2 2
The angle of principal plane

J xy
tan 2T p
(x  y )
x Maximum shearing strain is equal to the difference between the 2 principal strains i.e

(J xy ) max 1  2

Mohr's Circle for circle for Plain Strain

We may draw Mohrs circle for strain following same procedure which we followed for drawing

Mohrs circle in stress. Everything will be same and in the place of V x write x , the place of
J xy
V y write y and in place of W xy write .
2

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 Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

2.15 Volumetric Strain (Dilation)

x Rectangular block,

'V
x  y  z
V0
Proof: Volumetric strain
'V V  Vo
V0 V0
L 1  H x  u L 1  H y  u L 1  H z   L3
L3 After deformation,
Before deformation,
x  y  z
Volume (Vo) = L3 Volume (V)

= L 1  H x  u L 1  H y  u L 1  H z 
(neglecting second and third order
term, as very small )
x In case of prismatic bar,

dv
Volumetric strain, H 1  2P 
v
Proof: Before deformation, the volume of the
bar, V = A.L

After deformation, the length Lc  L 1  H 

2
and the new cross-sectional area  A c  A 1  PH 
2
Therefore now volume V c  A cLc=AL 1  H 1  PH 

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
2
'V V c-V AL 1  H 1  PH   AL
? H 1  2P 
V V AL
'V
H 1  2P 
V
x Thin Cylindrical vessel

V1 V2 pr
1=Longitudinal strain = P >1  2P @
E E 2 Et
V2 V1 pr
2 =Circumferential strain = P >2  P @
E E 2Et
'V pr
1 2 2 [5  4]
Vo 2 Et

x Thin Spherical vessels

pr
1 2 [1  P ]
2 Et
'V 3 pr
3 [1  P ]
V0 2 Et

x In case of pure shear

Vx V y W
Therefore
W
Hx 1  P 
E
W
Hy  1  P 
E
Hz 0

dv
Therefore H v Hx  Hy  Hz 0
v

2.16 Measurement of Strain

Unlike stress, strain can be measured directly. The most common way of measuring strain is by use
of the Strain Gauge.

Strain Gauge

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 Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
A strain gage is a simple device, comprising of a thin
electric wire attached to an insulating thin backing
material such as a bakelite foil. The foil is exposed to the
surface of the specimen on which the strain is to be
measured. The thin epoxy layer bonds the gauge to the
surface and forces the gauge to shorten or elongate as if it
were part of the specimen being strained.

A change in length of the gauge due to longitudinal strain

creates a proportional change in the electric resistance,
and since a constant current is maintained in the gauge, a
proportional change in voltage. (V = IR).

The voltage can be easily measured, and through

calibration, transformed into the change in length of the
original gauge length, i.e. the longitudinal strain along the
gauge length.

Strain Gauge factor (G.F)

The strain gauge factor relates a change in resistance with strain.

Strain Rosette
The strain rosette is a device used to measure the state of strain at a point in a plane.
It comprises three or more independent strain gauges, each of which is used to read normal strain
at the same point but in a different direction.
The relative orientation between the three gauges is known as D , E and G
The three measurements of normal strain provide sufficient information for the determination of the
complete state of strain at the measured point in 2-D.
We have to find out x , y , and J xy form measured value a , b , and c

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
General arrangement:
The orientation of strain gauges is given in the
figure. To relate strain we have to use the
following formula.
x  y x  y J xy
T  cos 2T  sin 2T
2 2 2
We get
x  y x  y J xy
a  cos 2D  sin 2D
2 2 2

x  y x  y J xy
b  cos 2 D  E   sin 2 D  E 
2 2 2
x  y x  y J xy
c  cos 2 D  E  G   sin 2 D  E  G 
2 2 2
From this three equations and three unknown we may solve x , y , and J xy

x Two standard arrangement of the of the strain rosette are as follows:

(i) 45 strain rosette or Rectangular strain rosette.
In the general arrangement above, put

D 0o ; E 45o and G 45o

Putting the value we get
x a x
x  x J xy
x b  45
o

2 2
x c y
(ii) 60 strain rosette or Delta strain rosette
In the general arrangement above, put

D 0o ; E 60o and G 60o

Putting the value we get
x a y
60o 1200
x 3 y 3
x b  J xy
4 4
x 3 y 3 or
x c  J xy
4 4
Solving above three equation we get

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Stresses at different angles and Pure Shear

GATE-1. A block of steel is loaded by a tangential force on its top surface while the bottom surface is held
rigidly. The deformation of the block is due to
[GATE-1992]
(a) Shear only (b) Bending only (c) Shear and bending (d) Torsion

GATE-2. A shaft subjected to torsion experiences a pure shear stress on the surface. The maximum
principal stress on the surface which is at 45 to the axis will have a value [GATE-2003]
(a) cos 45 (b) 2 cos 45 (c) cos2 45 (d) 2 sin 45 cos 45

GATE-3. The number of components in a stress tensor defining stress at a point in three dimensions is:
[GATE-2002]
(a) 3 (b) 4 (c) 6 (d) 9

Principal Stress and Principal Plane

GATE-4. A body is subjected to a pure tensile stress of 100 units. What is the maximum shear produced
in the body at some oblique plane due to the above? [IES-2006]
(a) 100 units (b) 75 units (c) 50 units (d) 0 unit

GATE-5. In a strained material one of the principal stresses is twice the other. The maximum shear
stress in the same case is m ax .Then, what is the value of the maximum principle stress?[IES
2007]
(a) m ax (b) 2 m ax (c) 4 m ax (d) 8 m ax

GATE-6. A material element subjected to a plane state of stress such that the maximum shear stress is
equal to the maximum tensile stress, would correspond to
[IAS-1998]

GATE-7. A solid circular shaft is subjected to a maximum shearing stress of 140 MPs. The magnitude of
the maximum normal stress developed in the shaft is:
[IAS-1995]
(a) 140 MPa (b) 80 MPa (c) 70 MPa (d) 60 MPa

GATE-8. The state of stress at a point in a loaded member is shown in the figure. The magnitude of
maximum shear stress is [1MPa = 10 kg/cm2] [IAS 1994]
(a) 10 MPa (b) 30 MPa (c) 50 MPa (d) 100MPa

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

GATE-9. A solid circular shaft of diameter 100 mm is subjected to an axial stress of 50 MPa. It is further
subjected to a torque of 10 kNm. The maximum principal stress experienced on the shaft is
closest to [GATE-2008]
(a) 41 MPa (b) 82 MPa (c) 164 MPa (d) 204 MPa

GATE-10. In a bi-axial stress problem, the stresses in x and y directions are ( x = 200 MPa and y =100
MPa. The maximum principal stress in MPa, is: [GATE-2000]
(a) 50 (b) 100 (c) 150 (d) 200

GATE-11. The maximum principle stress for the stress

state shown in the figure is
(a) (b) 2
(c) 3 (d) 1.5

[GATE-2001]
GATE-12. The normal stresses at a point are x = 10 MPa and, y = 2 MPa; the shear stress at this point is
4MPa. The maximum principal stress at this point is:
[GATE-1998]
(a) 16 MPa (b) 14 MPa (c) 11 MPa (d) 10 MPa

GATE-13. In a Mohr's circle, the radius of the circle is taken as: [IES-2006; GATE-1993]

y
2
x y
2

xy xy
2 x 2
(a) (b)
2 2

x y
2

xy y xy
2 2 2
(c) (d) x
2
Where, x and y are normal stresses along x and y directions respectively and xy is the shear
stress.

GATE-14. A two dimensional fluid element rotates like a rigid body. At a point within the element, the
pressure is 1 unit. Radius of the Mohr's circle, characterizing the state of stress at that point, is:
[GATE-2008]
(a) 0.5 unit (b) 0 unit (c) 1 unit (d) 2 units

GATE-14(i). The state of stress at a point under plane stress condition is

xx = 40 MPa, yy = 100 MPa and xy = 40 MPa.
The radius of the Mohrs circle representing the given state of stress in MPa is
(a) 40 (b) 50 (c) 60 (d) 100 [GATE-2012]

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
GATE-15. The Mohr's circle of plane stress for a
point in a body is shown. The design
is to be done on the basis of the
maximum shear stress theory for
yielding. Then, yielding will just
begin if the designer chooses a
ductile material whose yield strength
is:
(a) 45 MPa (b) 50 MPa
(c) 90 MPa (d) 100 MPa [GATE-2005]

GATE-16. The figure shows the state of stress

at a certain point in a stressed body.
The magnitudes of normal stresses in
the x and y direction are 100MPa and
20 MPa respectively. The radius of
Mohr's stress circle representing this
state of stress is:
(a) 120 (b) 80
(c) 60 (d) 40

[GATE-2004]
Data for Q17Q18 are given below. Solve the problems and choose correct answers.
[GATE-2003]
The state of stress at a point "P" in a two dimensional loading is such that the Mohr's circle is a point
located at 175 MPa on the positive normal stress axis.

GATE-17. Determine the maximum and minimum principal stresses respectively from the Mohr's circle
(a) + 175 MPa, 175MPa (b) +175 MPa, +175 MPa
(c) 0, 175 MPa (d) 0, 0

GATE-18. Determine the directions of maximum and minimum principal stresses at the point P from the
Mohr's circle [GATE-2003]
(a) 0, 90 (b) 90, 0 (c) 45, 135 (d) All directions

Principal strains
GATE-19. If the two principal strains at a point are 1000 10-6 and -600 10-6, then the maximum shear
strain is: [GATE-1996]
(a) 800 10-6 (b) 500 10-6 (c) 1600 10-6 (d) 200 10-6

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Stresses at different angles and Pure Shear

IES-1. If a prismatic bar be subjected to an axial tensile stress , then shear stress induced on a plane
inclined at with the axis will be: [IES-1992]

a sin 2 b cos 2 c cos 2 d sin 2
2 2 2 2

IES-2. In the case of bi-axial state of normal stresses, the normal stress on 45 plane is equal to[IES-
1992]
(a) The sum of the normal stresses (b) Difference of the normal stresses
(c) Half the sum of the normal stresses (d) Half the difference of the normal stresses

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
A point in two-dimensional stress state, is
IES-2a A
subjected to biaxial stress as shown in the above
figure. The shear stress acting on the plane AB
is
(a) Zero (b)

(c) cos2 (d) sin . cos

B

[IES-2010]

IES-3. In a two-dimensional problem, the state of pure shear at a point is characterized by[IES-2001]
(a) x y and xy 0 (b) x y and xy 0
(c) x 2 y and xy 0 (d) x 0.5 y and xy 0

IES-3a. What are the normal and shear stresses on the

45o planes shown?
(a) 1 2 400 MPa and 0
(b) 1 2 400 MPa and 0
(c) 1 2 400 MPa and 0
(d ) 1 2 200 MPa

IES-4. Which one of the following Mohrs circles represents the state of pure shear?
[IES-2000]

IES-5. For the state of stress of pure shear the strain energy stored per unit volume in the elastic,
homogeneous isotropic material having elastic constants E and will be: [IES-1998]
2 2 2 2 2
(a) 1 (b) 1 (c) 1 (d) 2
E 2E E 2E

IES-6. Assertion (A): If the state at a point is pure shear, then the principal planes through that point
making an angle of 45 with plane of shearing stress carries principal stresses whose magnitude
is equal to that of shearing stress.
Reason (R): Complementary shear stresses are equal in magnitude, but opposite in direction.
[IES-1996]

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-7. Assertion (A): Circular shafts made of brittle material fail along a helicoidally surface inclined
at 45 to the axis (artery point) when subjected to twisting moment. [IES-1995]
Reason (R): The state of pure shear caused by torsion of the shaft is equivalent to one of tension
at 45 to the shaft axis and equal compression in the perpendicular direction.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-8. A state of pure shear in a biaxial state of stress is given by [IES-1994]

1 0 1 0 x xy
(a) (b) (c) (d) None of the above
0 2 0 1 yx y

IES-9. The state of plane stress in a plate of 100 mm thickness is given as [IES-2000]
xx = 100 N/mm2, yy = 200 N/mm2, Young's modulus = 300 N/mm2, Poisson's ratio = 0.3. The
stress developed in the direction of thickness is:
(a) Zero (b) 90 N/mm2 (c) 100 N/mm2 (d) 200 N/mm2

IES-10. The state of plane stress at a point is described by x y and xy 0 . The normal stress
on the plane inclined at 45 to the x-plane will be: [IES-1998]
a b 2 c 3 d 2
IES-10(i). An elastic material of Youngs modulus E and Poissons ratio is subjected to a compressive
stress of 1 in the longitudinal direction. Suitable lateral compressive stress 2 are also applied
along the other two each of the lateral directions to half of the magnitude that would be under
1 acting alone. The magnitude of 2 is
[IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

IES-11. Consider the following statements: [IES-1996, 1998]

State of stress in two dimensions at a point in a loaded component can be completely specified
by indicating the normal and shear stresses on
1. A plane containing the point
2. Any two planes passing through the point
3. Two mutually perpendicular planes passing through the point
Of these statements
(a) 1, and 3 are correct (b) 2 alone is correct
(c) 1 alone is correct (d) 3 alone is correct

IES-11a If the principal stresses and maximum shearing stresses are of equal numerical value at a point
in a stressed body, the state of stress can be termed as
(a) Isotropic (b) Uniaxial [IES-2010]
(c) Pure shear (d) Generalized plane state of stress

Principal Stress and Principal Plane

IES-12. A body is subjected to a pure tensile stress of 100 units. What is the maximum shear produced
in the body at some oblique plane due to the above? [IES-2006]
(a) 100 units (b) 75 units (c) 50 units (d) 0 unit

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IES-13. In a strained material one of the principal stresses is twice the other. The maximum shear
stress in the same case is t max . Then, what is the value of the maximum principle stress?
[IES 2007]
(a) m ax (b) 2 m ax (c) 4 m ax (d) 8 m ax

IES-14. In a strained material, normal stresses on two mutually perpendicular planes are x and y
(both alike) accompanied by a shear stress xy One of the principal stresses will be zero, only if
[IES-2006]
x y
(a) xy (b) xy x y (c) xy x y (d) xy x2 y2
2
IES-15. The principal stresses 1, 2 and 3 at a point respectively are 80 MPa, 30 MPa and 40 MPa.
The maximum shear stress is: [IES-2001]
(a) 25 MPa (b) 35 MPa (c) 55 MPa (d) 60 MPa

IES-15(i). A piece of material is subjected, to two perpendicular tensile stresses of 70 MPa and 10 MPa.
The magnitude of the resultant stress on a plane in which the maximum shear stress occurs is
[IES-2012]
(a) 70 MPa (b) 60 MPa (c) 50 MPa (d) 10 MPa

IES-16. Plane stress at a point in a body is defined by principal stresses 3 and . The ratio of the
normal stress to the maximum shear stresses on the plane of maximum shear stress is:[IES-
2000]
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
IES-17. Principal stresses at a point in plane stressed element are x y 500kg/cm2 . Normal
stress on the plane inclined at 45o to x-axis will be: [IES-1993]
(a) 0 (b) 500 kg/cm2 (c) 707 kg/cm2 (d) 1000 kg/cm2

IES-18. If the principal stresses corresponding to a two-dimensional state of stress are 1 and 2 is

greater than 2 and both are tensile, then which one of the following would be the correct
criterion for failure by yielding, according to the maximum shear stress criterion?[IES-1993]

(a)
1 2 yp (b)
1

yp
(c )
2

yp
(d ) 1 2 yp
2 2 2 2 2 2
IES-19. For the state of plane stress.
Shown the maximum and minimum
principal stresses are:
(a) 60 MPa and 30 MPa
(b) 50 MPa and 10 MPa
(c) 40 MPa and 20 MPa
(d) 70 MPa and 30 MPa

[IES-1992]

IES-20. Normal stresses of equal magnitude p, but of opposite signs, act at a point of a strained material
in perpendicular direction. What is the magnitude of the resultant normal stress on a plane
inclined at 45 to the applied stresses? [IES-2005]
(a) 2 p (b) p/2 (c) p/4 (d) Zero

IES-21. A plane stressed element is subjected to the state of stress given by x xy 100kgf/cm2 and
y = 0. Maximum shear stress in the element is equal to [IES-1997]

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
a 50 3 kgf/cm 2
b 100kgf/cm 2
c 50 5 kgf/cm 2
d 150kgf/cm2
IES-22. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer, using the codes given below the lists:
[IES-1995]
List I(State of stress) List II(Kind of loading)

Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 4 1 (c)
2 4 3 1 (d) 3 4 1 2

Mohr's circle
IES-22(i). Statement (I): Mohrs circle of stress can be related to Mohrs circle of strain by some constant
of proportionality. [IES-2012]
Statement (II): The relationship is a function of yield strength of the material.
(a) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true and Statement (II) is the correct
explanation of Statement (I)
(b) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true but Statement (II) is not the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(c) Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
(d) Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true

IES-23. Consider the Mohr's circle shown above:

What is the state of stress represented by
this circle?
(a) x y 0, xy 0
(b) x y 0, xy 0
(c) x 0, y xy 0
(d) x 0, y xy 0

[IES-2008]

IES-24. For a general two dimensional stress system, what are the coordinates of the centre of Mohrs
circle?
[IES 2007]
x y x y x y x y
(a) ,0 (b) 0, (c) ,0(d) 0,
2 2 2 2

IES-25. In a Mohr's circle, the radius of the circle is taken as: [IES-2006; GATE-1993]

y
2
x y
2

xy xy
2 x 2
(a) (b)
2 2

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x y
2

xy y xy
2 2 2
(c) (d) x
2
Where, x and y are normal stresses along x and y directions respectively and xy is the shear
stress.

IES-26. Maximum shear stress in a Mohr's Circle [IES- 2008]

(a) Is equal to radius of Mohr's circle (b) Is greater than radius of Mohr's circle
(c) Is less than radius of Mohr's circle (d) Could be any of the above

IES-27. At a point in two-dimensional stress system x = 100 N/mm2, y = xy = 40 N/mm2. What is the
radius of the Mohr circle for stress drawn with a scale of: 1 cm = 10 N/mm 2? [IES-2005]
(a) 3 cm (b) 4 cm (c) 5 cm (d) 6 cm

IES-28. Consider a two dimensional state of stress given for an element as shown in the diagram given
below: [IES-2004]

What are the coordinates of the centre of Mohr's circle?

(a) (0, 0) (b) (100, 200) (c) (200, 100) (d) (50, 0)

IES-29. Two-dimensional state of stress at a point in a plane stressed element is represented by a Mohr
circle of zero radius. Then both principal stresses
(a) Are equal to zero [IES-2003]
(b) Are equal to zero and shear stress is also equal to zero
(c) Are of equal magnitude but of opposite sign
(d) Are of equal magnitude and of same sign

IES-30. Assertion (A): Mohr's circle of stress can be related to Mohr's circle of strain by some constant of
proportionality. [IES-2002]
Reason (R): The relationship is a function of yield stress of the material.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-31. When two mutually perpendicular principal stresses are unequal but like, the maximum shear
stress is represented by [IES-1994]
(a) The diameter of the Mohr's circle
(b) Half the diameter of the Mohr's circle
(c) One-third the diameter of the Mohr's circle
(d) One-fourth the diameter of the Mohr's circle

IES-32. State of stress in a plane element is shown in figure I. Which one of the following figures-II is
the correct sketch of Mohr's circle of the state of stress?
[IES-1993, 1996]

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

Figure-I Figure-II

Strain
IES-33. A point in a two dimensional state of strain is subjected to pure shearing strain of magnitude
xy radians. Which one of the following is the maximum principal strain? [IES-2008]
(a) xy (b) xy / 2 (c) xy /2 (d) 2 xy

IES-34. Assertion (A): A plane state of stress does not necessarily result into a plane state of strain as
well. [IES-1996]
Reason (R): Normal stresses acting along X and Y directions will also result into normal strain
along the Z-direction.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-34a Assertion (A): A plane state of stress always results in a plane state of strain.
Reason (R): A uniaxial state of stress results in a three-dimensional state of strain.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false [IES-2010]
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-34b Assertion (A): A state of plane strain always results in plane stress conditions.
Reason (R): A thin sheet of metal stretched in its own plane results in plane strain conditions.
[IES-2010]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Principal strains
IES-35. Principal strains at a point are 100 10 6 and 200 10 6 . What is the maximum shear strain
at the point? [IES-2006]
(a) 300 106 (b) 200 106 (c) 150 106 (d) 100 106

IES-36. The principal strains at a point in a body, under biaxial state of stress, are 1000106 and 600
106. What is the maximum shear strain at that point?
[IES-2009]
(a) 200 106 (b) 800 106 (c) 1000 106 (d) 1600 106

IES-37. The number of strain readings (using strain gauges) needed on a plane surface to determine the
principal strains and their directions is: [IES-1994]
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Principal strain induced by principal stress
IES-38. The principal stresses at a point in two dimensional stress system are 1 and 2 and
corresponding principal strains are 1 and 2 . If E and denote Young's modulus and Poisson's
ratio, respectively, then which one of the following is correct?
[IES-2008]
E
(a) 1 E1 (b) 1 1 2
1 2
E
(c) 1 1 2 (d) 1 E 1 2
1 2

IES-39. Assertion (A): Mohr's construction is possible for stresses, strains and area moment of
inertia. [IES-2009]
Reason (R): Mohr's circle represents the transformation of second-order tensor.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.

IES-40. A rectangular strain rosette, shown in

figure, gives following reading in a
strain measurement task, 100010
-
6
80010-6 and60010-6
The direction of the major principal strain
with respect to gauge l is
(a) 0o (b) 15o
(c) 30 o (d) 45o

[IES-2011]

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Stresses at different angles and Pure Shear

IAS-1. On a plane, resultant stress is inclined at an angle of 45 o to the plane. If the normal stress is
100 N /mm2, the shear stress on the plane is: [IAS-2003]
(a) 71.5 N/mm2 (b) 100 N/mm2 (c) 86.6 N/mm2 (d) 120.8 N/mm2

IAS-2. Biaxial stress system is correctly shown in [IAS-1999]

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IAS-3. The complementary shear stresses of
intensity are induced at a point in the
material, as shown in the figure. Which
one of the following is the correct set of
orientations of principal planes with
respect to AB?
(a) 30 and 120 (b) 45 and 135
(c) 60 and 150 (d) 75 and 165
[IAS-1998]

IAS-4. A uniform bar lying in the x-direction is subjected to pure bending. Which one of the following
tensors represents the strain variations when bending moment is about the z-axis (p, q and r
constants)? [IAS-2001]
py 0 0 py 0 0

(a) 0 qy 0 (b) 0 qy 0

0 0 ry 0 0 0

py 0 0 py 0 0

(c) 0 py 0 (d) 0 qy 0

0 0 py 0 0 qy

IAS-5. Assuming E = 160 GPa and G = 100 GPa for a material, a strain tensor is given as:[IAS-2001]
0.002 0.004 0.006

0.004 0.003 0
0.006 0
0
The shear stress, xy is:
(a) 400 MPa (b) 500 MPa (c) 800 MPa (d) 1000 MPa

Principal Stress and Principal Plane

IAS-6. A material element subjected to a plane state of stress such that the maximum shear stress is
equal to the maximum tensile stress, would correspond to
[IAS-1998]

IAS-7. A solid circular shaft is subjected to a maximum shearing stress of 140 MPs. The magnitude of
the maximum normal stress developed in the shaft is: [IAS-1995]
(a) 140 MPa (b) 80 MPa (c) 70 MPa (d) 60 MPa

IAS-8. The state of stress at a point in a loaded member is shown in the figure. The magnitude of
maximum shear stress is [1MPa = 10 kg/cm2] [IAS 1994]
(a) 10 MPa (b) 30 MPa (c) 50 MPa (d) 100MPa

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

IAS-9. A horizontal beam under bending has a maximum bending stress of 100 MPa and a maximum
shear stress of 20 MPa. What is the maximum principal stress in the beam? [IAS-2004]
(a) 20 (b) 50 (c) 50 + 2900 (d) 100

IAS-10. When the two principal stresses are equal and like: the resultant stress on any plane is:[IAS-
2002]
(a) Equal to the principal stress (b) Zero
(c) One half the principal stress (d) One third of the principal stress

IAS-11. Assertion (A): When an isotropic, linearly elastic material is loaded biaxially, the directions of
principal stressed are different from those of principal strains.
Reason (R): For an isotropic, linearly elastic material the Hooke's law gives only two
independent material properties. [IAS-2001]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-12. Principal stress at a point in a stressed solid are 400 MPa and 300 MPa respectively. The
normal stresses on planes inclined at 45 to the principal planes will be:
[IAS-2000]
(a) 200 MPa and 500 MPa (b) 350 MPa on both planes
(c) 100MPaand6ooMPa (d) 150 MPa and 550 MPa

IAS-13. The principal stresses at a point in an elastic material are 60N/mm 2 tensile, 20 N/mm2 tensile
and 50 N/mm2 compressive. If the material properties are: = 0.35 and E = 105 Nmm2, then the
volumetric strain of the material is: [IAS-1997]
(a) 9 105 (b) 3 10-4 (c) 10.5 105 (d) 21 105

Mohr's circle
IAS-14. Match List-I (Mohr's Circles of stress) with List-II (Types of Loading) and select the correct
answer using the codes given below the lists: [IAS-2004]
List-I List-II
(Mohr's Circles of Stress) (Types of Loading)

1. A shaft compressed all round by a hub

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

2. Bending moment applied at the free

end of a cantilever

3. Shaft under torsion

4. Thin cylinder under pressure

5. Thin spherical shell under internal

pressure
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 5 4 3 2 (b) 2 4 1 3
(c) 4 3 2 5 (d) 2 3 1 5

IAS-15. The resultant stress on a certain plane makes an angle of 20 with the normal to the plane. On
the plane perpendicular to the above plane, the resultant stress makes an angle of with the
normal. The value of can be: [IAS-2001]
(a) 0 or 20 (b) Any value other than 0 or 90
(c) Any value between 0 and 20 (d) 20 only

IAS-16. The correct Mohr's stress-circle drawn for a point in a solid shaft compressed by a shrunk fit
hub is as (O-Origin and C-Centre of circle; OA = 1 and OB = 2)
[IAS-2001]

IAS-17. A Mohr's stress circle is drawn for a body subjected to tensile stress f x and f y in two
mutually perpendicular directions such that f x > f y . Which one of the following statements in
this regard is NOT correct? [IAS-2000]
fx f y
(a) Normal stress on a plane at 45 to f x is equal to
2
fx f y
(b) Shear stress on a plane at 450 to f x is equal to
2
(c) Maximum normal stress is equal to f x .
fx f y
(d) Maximum shear stress is equal to
2
IAS-18. For the given stress condition x =2 N/mm2, x =0 and xy 0 , the correct Mohrs circle is:
[IAS-1999]

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

IAS-19. For which one of the following two-dimensional states of stress will the Mohr's stress circle
degenerate into a point? [IAS-1996]

Principal strains
IAS-20. In an axi-symmetric plane strain problem, let u be the radial displacement at r. Then the strain
components r , , e are given by [IAS-1995]
u u 2u u u
(a) r , , r (b) r , , r o
r r r r r
u u u u 2u
(c) r , , r 0 (d) r , , r
r r r r

IAS-21. Assertion (A): Uniaxial stress normally gives rise to triaxial strain.
Reason (R): Magnitude of strains in the perpendicular directions of applied stress is smaller
than that in the direction of applied stress. [IAS-2004]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-22. Assertion (A): A plane state of stress will, in general, not result in a plane state of strain.[IAS-
2002]
Reason (R): A thin plane lamina stretched in its own plane will result in a state of plane strain.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (a) It is the definition of shear stress. The force is applied tangentially it is not a point load so
you cannot compare it with a cantilever with a point load at its free end.
x y x y
GATE-2. Ans. (d) n cos2 xy sin2
2 2
Here x 2 0, xy , 45o
GATE-3. Ans. (d) It is well known that,
xy yx, xz zx and yz zy
so that the state of stress at a point is given by six components x , y , z and xy , yz , zx
1 2 100 0
GATE-4. Ans. (c) max 50 units.
2 2
1 2 2
GATE-5. Ans. (c) max , 1 2 2 or max or 2 2 m ax or 1 2 2 = 4 m ax
2 2
1 2 1 ( 1 )
GATE-6. Ans. (d) max 1
2 2
1 2
GATE-7. Ans. (a) max Maximum normal stress will developed if 1 2
2

x y
2
40 40
2

GATE-8. Ans. (c) max xy 2 = 30 = 50 MPa

2

2 2
16T 16 10000
GATE-9. Ans. (b) Shear Stress ( )= Pa 50 .93 MPa
d 3 (0.1)3
b
2

Maximum principal Stress = b 2 =82 MPa

2 2
2
x y x y
GATE-10. Ans. (d) 1 xy
2
if xy 0
2 2
2
x y
x y
x
2 2
GATE-11. Ans. (b) x , y , xy
2
x y x y
1 max 0
2
xy 2 2
2

2 2 2
2 2
x y x y 10 2 10 2 2
GATE-12. Ans. (c) 1 xy
2
4 11.66 MPa
2 2 2 2
GATE-13. Ans. (a)

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

GATE-14. Ans. (b)

GATE-1(i). Ans. (b)

40 100
2

40 50 MPa
2

2
GATE-15. Ans. (c)
Given 1 10 MPa, 2 100 MPa
1 2 y
Maximum shear stress theory give max
2 2
or 1 2 y y 10 (100) 90MPa
GATE-16. Ans. (c)
x 100MPa, y 20MPa
x y 100 20
Radius of Mohr 'scircle 60
2 2
GATE-17. Ans. (b)

1 2 x y 175 MPa

GATE-18. Ans. (d) From the Mohrs circle it will give all directions.
GATE-19. Ans. (c) Shear strain emax emin 1000 600 10 6 1600 10 6

IES
IES-1. Ans. (a)
x y x y
IES-2. Ans. (c) n cos2 xy sin2
2 2
x y
At 45o and xy 0; n
2
x y
IES-2a Ans. (a) Shear stress sin2 - xy cos2
2
Here x , y and xy 0
IES-3. Ans. (b)
IES-3a. Ans. (a)
IES-4. Ans. (c)

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IES-5. Ans. (a) 1 ,
2 , 3 0
1 2 1 2
2 V
2
U V
2E E
IES-6. Ans. (b)
IES-7. Ans. (a) Both A and R are true and R is correct explanation for A.
IES-8. Ans. (b) 1 , 2 , 3 0
IES-9. Ans. (a)
x y x y
IES-10. Ans. (a) n cos2 xy sin2
2 2
IES-10(i). Ans. (b)
IES-11. Ans. (d)
IES-11a Ans. (c)
1 2 100 0
IES-12. Ans. (c) max 50 units.
2 2
1 2 2
IES-13. Ans. (c) max , 1 2 2 or max or 2 2 m ax or 1 2 2 = 4 m ax
2 2
2
x y x y
IES-14. Ans. (c) 1,2 xy
2

2 2
2
x y x y
if 2 0 xy
2

2 2
2 2
x y x y
xy or xy x y
2
or
2 2
1 2 80 ( 40)
IES-15. Ans. (d) max 60 MPa
2 2
IES-15(i). Ans. (c)
2 xy
IES-16. Ans. (b) tan 2 0
x y
1 2 3
max
2 2
3
Major principal stress on the plane of maximum shear = 1 2
2
IES-17. Ans. (b) When stresses are alike, then normal stress n on plane inclined at angle 45 is
2 2
1 1 1 1
n y cos 2 x sin 2 y x 500 2 2 500 kg/cm
2

2 2
IES-18. Ans. (a)
2
x y x y
IES-19. Ans. (d) 1,2 xy
2

2 2
2
50 ( 10) 50 10
1,2 40
2

2 2
max 70 and min 30
x y x y
IES-20. Ans. (d) x cos2
2 2
P P P P
n cos 2 45 0
2 2

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
x 0 0
2

IES-21. Ans. (c) 1,2 x xy 50 50 5

2

2 2
1 2
Maximum shear stress = 50 5
2
IES-22. Ans. (c)
IES-22(i). Ans. (c)
IES-23. Ans. (b) It is a case of pure shear. Just put 1 2
IES-24. Ans. (c)
IES-25. Ans. (a)

IES-26. Ans. (a)

2
2 2
x y
2 x y 2
x xy xy
2 2

Radius of the Mohr Circle
2
x y 2
xy
2
2
x y x y 2
t xy
2 2
2
x y x y 2
2 xy
2 2
2
1 2 x y 2
max r max xy
2 2

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IES-27. Ans. (c) Radius of the Mohr circle
2 100 40 2
x y
xy 2 / 10 402 / 10 50 / 10 5cm
2 2

x y 200 100
IES-28. Ans. (d) Centre of Mohrs circle is ,0 ,0 50,0
2 2
IES-29. Ans. (d)
IES-30. Ans. (c)
IES-31. Ans. (b)
IES-32. Ans. (c)
IES-33. Ans. (c)
IES-34. Ans. (a)
IES-34a. Ans. (d)
IES-34b. Ans. (d)
IES-35. Ans. (a) max 1 2 100 200 106 300 106
1 2
don' t confuse withMaximumShear stress max
2
xy 1 2 1 2
in strain and max that is the difference.
2 2 2
IES-36. Ans. (d)
x y xy
2

2

xy x y 1000 106 600 106 1600 106
IES-37. Ans. (c) Three strain gauges are needed on a plane surface to determine the principal strains and
their directions.
s1 s s2 s
IES-38. Ans. (b) e1 = - m 2 and e2 = - m 1 From these two equation eliminate s 2 .
E E E E
IES-39. Ans. (a)
IES-40. Ans. (a)

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (b) Weknow n cos and sin cos
2

100 cos2 45 or 200

200 sin 45 cos 45 100
IAS-2. Ans. (c)

IAS-3. Ans. (b) It is a case of pure shear so principal planes will be along the diagonal.
IAS-4. Ans. (d) Stress in x direction = x
x x x
Therefore x , y , z
E E E
IAS-5. Ans. (c)

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
xx xy xz
xy
yx yy yz and xy
2
zx zy zz
xy G xy 100 10 0.004 2 MPa 800MPa
3

1 2 1 ( 1 )
IAS-6. Ans. (d) max 1
2 2
1 2
IAS-7. Ans. (a) max Maximum normal stress will developed if 1 2
2
x y
2
40 40
2

IAS-8. Ans. (c) max xy 2 = 30 = 50 MPa

2

2 2
IAS-9. Ans. (c) b=100MPa =20 mPa

b
2

1,2= b 2
2 2
b
2 2

1,2 b 2
2 2
100
2

100
2
20 50 2900 MPa
2

x y x y
IAS-10. Ans. (a) n cos 2
2 2
[We may consider this as xy 0 ] x y ( say ) So n for any plane
IAS-11. Ans. (d) They are same.
IAS-12. Ans. (b)
x y x y 400 300 400 300
n cos 2 cos 2 45o 350MPa
2 2 2 2
IAS-13. Ans. (a)
x y z y y
x , y z x and z z x
E E E E E E E E E

x y z 2
v x y z
E

E
x y z
x y z 60 20 50
1 2 5 1 2 0.35 9 10
5

E 10
IAS-14. Ans. (d)
IAS-15. Ans. (b)
IAS-16. Ans. (d)
fx f y
IAS-17. Ans. (d) Maximum shear stress is
2
x y 2 0
IAS-18. Ans. (d) Centre ,0 ,0 1, 0
2 2
2
x y
2
20
x
2
radius 0 1
2 2
IAS-19. Ans. (c) Mohrs circle will be a point.
2
x y
xy xy 0 and x y
2
Radius of the Mohrs circle =
2
IAS-20. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
IAS-21. Ans. (b)
IAS-22. Ans. (c) R is false. Stress in one plane always induce a lateral strain with its orthogonal plane.

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-1999
Question: What are principal in planes?
Answer: The planes which pass through the point in such a manner that the resultant stress across
them is totally a normal stress are known as principal planes. No shear stress exists at the
principal planes.

Conventional Question IES-2009

Q. The Mohrs circle for a plane stress is a circle of radius R with its origin at + 2R on
axis. Sketch the Mohrs circle and determine max , min , av , ( xy )max for this
situation. [2 Marks]

Ans. Here max = 3R

min = R
3R + R
v = = 2R
2
min 3R R
and xy = max = =R
2 2

R R

(2R,0)

3R

Conventional Question IES-1999

Question: Direct tensile stresses of 120 MPa and 70 MPa act on a body on mutually
perpendicular planes. What is the magnitude of shearing stress that can be applied
so that the major principal stress at the point does not exceed 135 MPa? Determine
the value of minor principal stress and the maximum shear stress.
Answer: Let shearing stress is ' ' MPa.
The principal stresses are
120 70
2
120 + 70
1,2 = +
2

2
2
Major principal stress is
120 70
2
120 + 70
1 = + +
2

2 2
= 135(Given) or , = 31.2MPa.

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Min or pr in cipal st r ess is
2
120 70 120 70
2 31.2 55 MPa
2

2 2
1 2 135 55
max 40 MPa
2 2

Conventional Question IES-2009

Q. The state of stress at a point in a loaded machine member is given by the principle stresses. [
2 Marks]
1 600 MP a , 2 0 and 3 600 MP a .
(i) What is the magnitude of the maximum shear stress?
(ii) What is the inclination of the plane on which the maximum shear stress acts with respect
to the plane on which the maximum principle stress 1 acts?
Ans. (i) Maximum shear stress,
1 3 600 600

2 2
600 MP a
(ii) At = 45 max. shear stress occurs with 1 plane. Since 1 and 3 are principle stress
does not contains shear stress. Hence max. shear stress is at 45 with principle plane.

Conventional Question IES-2008

Question: A prismatic bar in compression has a cross- sectional area A = 900 mm2 and carries an axial
load P = 90 kN. What are the stresses acts on
(i) A plane transverse to the loading axis;
(ii) A plane at = 60o to the loading axis?
Answer: (i) From figure it is clear A plane
transverse to loading axis, =0o
P 90000
\ s n = cos2 = N / mm 2
A 900
= 100 N / mm 2
P 90000
and t = Sin 2= sin=0
2A 2900
(iii) A plane at 60o to loading axis,
= 60- 30 = 30
P 90000
s n = cos2 = cos2 30
A 900
= 75N / mm 2
P 90000
t = sin2q = sin2 60o
2A 2 900
= 43.3N / mm 2

Conventional Question IES-2001

Question: A tension member with a cross-sectional area of 30 mm2 resists a load of 80 kN, Calculate the
normal and shear stresses on the plane of maximum shear stress.
P P
Answer: n = cos2 t = sin2
A 2A

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals

For maximum shear stress sin2 = 1, or, = 45o

80 103 P 80 103
(n ) = cos2 45 = 1333MPa and t max = = = 1333MPa
30 2A 30 2

Conventional Question IES-2007

Question: At a point in a loaded structure, a pure shear stress state t = 400 MPa prevails on two
given planes at right angles.
(i) What would be the state of stress across the planes of an element taken at +45 to the
given planes?
(ii) What are the magnitudes of these stresses?
Answer: (i) For pure shear
x = - y ; t max = x = 400 MPa

(ii) Magnitude of these stresses

n = t xy Sin2 = t xy Sin90o = t xy = 400 MPa and t = (- t xy cos2) = 0

Conventional Question IAS-1997
Question: Draw Mohr's circle for a 2-dimensional stress field subjected to
(a) Pure shear (b) Pure biaxial tension (c) Pure uniaxial tension and (d) Pure uniaxial
compression
Answer: Mohr's circles for 2-dimensional stress field subjected to pure shear, pure biaxial tension, pure
uniaxial compression and pure uniaxial tension are shown in figure below:

Conventional Question IES-2003

Question: A Solid phosphor bronze shaft 60 mm in diameter is rotating at 800 rpm and transmitting
power. It is subjected torsion only. An electrical resistance strain gauge mounted on the
surface of the shaft with its axis at 45 to the shaft axis, gives the strain reading as 3.98 10

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
the strain reading as 3.98 104. If the modulus of elasticity for bronze is 105 GN/m2
and Poisson's ratio is 0.3, find the power being transmitted by the shaft. Bending
effect may be neglected.
Answer:

Let us assume maximum shear stress on the cross-sectional plane MU is . Then

1
Principal stress along, VM = - 4 2 = - (compressive)
2
1
Principal stress along, LU = 4 2 = (tensile)
2
Thus magntude of the compressive strain along VM is

= (1 + ) = 3.98 104
E
3.98 104 (105 109 )
or = = 32.15 MPa
(1 + 0.3)

Torque being transmitted (T) = d 3
16

= (32.15 106 ) 0.063 =1363.5 Nm
16

2N 2800
Power being transmitted, P =T. =T.
=1363.5 W = 114.23 kW
60 60

Conventional Question IES-2002

Question: The magnitude of normal stress on two mutually perpendicular planes, at a point in
an elastic body are 60 MPa (compressive) and 80 MPa (tensile) respectively. Find
the magnitudes of shearing stresses on these planes if the magnitude of one of the
principal stresses is 100 MPa (tensile). Find also the magnitude of the other
principal stress at this point.

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Answer: Above figure shows stress condition assuming
shear stress is ' xy' 80Mpa
Jxy
Principal stresses
2
x + y x y
1,2 = + xy2 60Mpa 60Mpa

2 2 Jxy
Jxy
2
60 + 80 60 80
or , 1,2 = 2
+ xy
2 2 Jxy
80Mpa
2
60 + 80 60 80
or , 1,2 = 2
+ xy
2
2
To make principal stress 100 MPa we have to consider '+' .
1 = 100 MPa = 10 + 702 + xy2 ; or, xy = 56.57 MPa
Therefore other principal stress will be
2
60 + 80 60 80
2 = + (56.57)
2

2 2
i.e. 80 MPa(compressive)

Conventional Question IES-2001

Question: A steel tube of inner diameter 100 mm and wall thickness 5 mm is subjected to a
torsional moment of 1000 Nm. Calculate the principal stresses and orientations of
the principal planes on the outer surface of the tube.

(0.110) (0.100) = 4.56 106 m 4
4 4
Answer: Polar moment of Inertia (J)=
32

5mm
T T .R 1000 (0.055)
Now = or J = =
J R J 4.56 106
= 12.07MPa
2 xy
Now,tan 2 p = =,
x y 50mm
gives p = 45 or 135
0 0

1 = xy Sin 2 = 12.07 sin 900

= 12.07 MPa
and 2 = 12.07 sin 2700
= 12.07MPa

Conventional Question IES-2000

Question: At a point in a two dimensional stress system the normal stresses on two mutually
perpendicular planes are x and y and the shear stress is xy. At what value of
shear stress, one of the principal stresses will become zero?
Answer: Two principal stressdes are
2
x + y x - y
1,2 = + xy2
2 2

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Question: A solid shaft of diameter 30 mm is fixed at one end. It is subject to a tensile force of 10 kN and
a torque of 60 Nm. At a point on the surface of the shaft, determine the principle stresses and
the maximum shear stress.
Answer: Given: D = 30 mm = 0.03 m; P = 10 kN; T= 60 Nm
Pr incipal stresses 1, 2 and max imum shear stress max :
10 103
Tensile stress t x 14.15 10 6 N / m2 or 14.15 MN / m2
2
0.03
4

T
As per torsion equation,
J R
TR TR 60 0.015
Shear stress, 11.32 106 N / m2
J 4
0.03
4
D
32 32
or 11.32 MN / m2
The principal stresses are calculated by u sin g the relations :

y x y 2
1,2 x xy
2

2 2
Here x 14.15MN / m2 , y 0; xy 11.32 MN / m2
2
14.15 14.15
11.32
2
1,2
2 2
7.07 13.35 20.425 MN / m2 , 6.275MN / m2 .
Hence,major principal stress, 1 20.425 MN / m2 tensile
Minor principal stress, 2 6.275MN / m2 compressive
1 2 24.425 6.275
Maximum shear stress, max 13.35mm / m2
2 2

Conventional Question IES-2000

Question: Two planes AB and BC which are at right angles are acted upon by tensile stress of 140
N/mm2 and a compressive stress of 70 N/mm 2 respectively and also by stress 35 N/mm 2.
Determine the principal stresses and principal planes. Find also the maximum shear stress
and planes on which they act.
Sketch the Mohr circle and mark the relevant data.
Answer: Given 70N/mm
2

B
x =140MPa(tensile) C

y =-70MPa(compressive) 2
35Nmm
t xy = 35MPa 140N/mm
2

Principal stresses; 1, 2 ;
A

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
Answer: Given 70N /mm
2

B
x =140MPa (tensile) C

y = -70MPa (compressive) 2
35Nmm
xy = 35MPa 140N/mm2

Principal stresses; 1, 2 ;
A
2
x + y x y
We know that, 1,2 = + xy
2

2 2
2
140 70 140 + 70

2
= + 35 = 35 110.7
2 2
Therefore 1 =145.7 MPa and 2 = 75.7MPa

Position of Principal planes 1, 2

2 xy 2 35
tan 2 p = = = 0.3333
x y 140 + 70
1 - 2 145 + 75.7
Maximum shear stress, max = = = 110.7MPa
2 2
Y
Mohr cirle:

OL= x = 140MPa
S 2p =198.4
OM = y = 70MPa
SM = LT = xy = 35MPa U L
M O 2= V
N 78.4
Joining ST that cuts at 'N'
= 140 T
SN=NT=radius of Mohr circle =110.7 MPa
OV=1 = 145.7MPa
OV = 2 = 75.7MPa
Conventional Question IES-2010
Q6. The data obtained from a rectangular strain gauge rosette attached to a stressed
steel member are 0 = 220 106 , 45
0
= 120 1006 , and 90 =220 106 . Given
5 2
that the value of E = 2 10 N / mm and Poissons Ratio = 0.3 , calculate the values
of principal stresses acting at the point and their directions.
[10 Marks]
Ans. A rectangular strain gauge rosette strain
0 = 220 106 = 120 106 90 = 220 106
450

E = 2 1011 N / m2 poisson ratio = 0.3

Find out principal stress and their direction.
Let ea =o ec =90 and eb =45
We know that principal strain are
ea + eb
( ea eb ) + ( eb ec )
2 2
12 =
2
(
220 106 + 120 106 1 )
( ) + ( (120 220) 10 )
2 2
( 220 120 ) + 106 6
2 2
1
50 106 354.40 106
2

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Chapter-2 Principal Stress and Strain S K Mondals
240
0.55
440
2 p 28.81
p 14.45 0 clockw ise form principal strain t 1
Principal stress:-

1
E 1 2


2 1011 2 0.3 3 10 4
1 2
1 0.3 2

241.78 10 N / m
5 2

527.47 10 5 N / m 2

Conventional Question IES-1998

Question: When using strain-gauge system for stress/force/displacement measurements how are in-built
magnification and temperature compensation achieved?
Answer: In-built magnification and temperature compensation are achieved by
(a) Through use of adjacent arm balancing of Wheat-stone bridge.
(b) By means of self temperature compensation by selected melt-gauge and dual element-
gauge.

Conventional Question AMIE-1998

Question: A cylinder (500 mm internal diameter and 20 mm wall thickness) with closed ends is
subjected simultaneously to an internal pressure of 0-60 MPa, bending moment 64000 Nm
and torque 16000 Nm. Determine the maximum tensile stress and shearing stress in the wall.
Answer: Given: d = 500 mm = 05 m; t = 20 mm = 002 m; p = 060 MPa = 0.6 MN/m2;
M = 64000 Nm = 0064 MNm; T= 16000 Nm = 0016 MNm.
Maximum tensile stress:
First let us determine the principle stresses 1 and 2 assuming this as a thin cylinder.
pd 0.6 0.5
We know, 1
7.5MN / m2
2t 2 0.02
pd 0.6 0.5
and 2 3.75MN / m2
4t 4 0.02
Next consider effect of combined bending moment and torque on the walls of the cylinder.
Then the principal stresses '1 and '2 are given by
16
'1 M M2 T 2
d3
16
and '2 3 M M2 T 2
d
16 0.064 0.0642 0.016 2 5.29MN / m2
'1 3
0.5
16 0.064 0.064 2 0.016 2 0.08MN / m 2
and '2
0.5
3
Maximum shearing stress, max :
I II
We Know, max
2
II 2 '2 3.75 0.08 3.67MN / m2 tensile
12.79 3.67
max 4.56MN / m2
2

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 3. Moment of Inertia and Centroid

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

3.1 Centre of gravity
The centre of gravity of a body defined as the point through which the whole weight of a body may be

assumed to act.

3.2 Centroid or Centre of area

The centroid or centre of area is defined as the point where the whole area of the figure is assumed

to be concentrated.

3.3 Moment of Inertia (MOI)

x About any point the product of the force and the perpendicular distance between them is

known as moment of a force or first moment of force.

x This first moment is again multiplied by the perpendicular distance between them to obtain

second moment of force.

x In the same way if we consider the area of the figure it is called second moment of area or

area moment of inertia and if we consider the mass of a body it is called second moment of

mass or mass moment of Inertia.

x Mass moment of inertia is the measure of resistance of the body to rotation and forms the

basis of dynamics of rigid bodies.

x Area moment of Inertia is the measure of resistance to bending and forms the basis of

strength of materials.

3.4 Mass moment of Inertia (MOI)

I m r
i
i i
2

x Notice that the moment of inertia I depends on the distribution of mass in the system.
x The furthest the mass is from the rotation axis, the bigger the moment of inertia.
x For a given object, the moment of inertia depends on where we choose the rotation axis.
x In rotational dynamics, the moment of inertia I appears in the same way that mass m does
in linear dynamics.

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 Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
x Solid disc or cylinder of mass M and radius R, about perpendicular axis through its
1
centre, I MR2
2
x Solid sphere of mass M and radius R, about an axis through its centre, I = 2/5 M R2
x Thin rod of mass M and length L, about a perpendicular axis through
its centre.

1
I ML2
12

x Thin rod of mass M and length L, about a perpendicular axis through its
end.

1
I ML2
3

3.5 Area Moment of Inertia (MOI) or Second moment of area

x To find the centroid of an area by the first moment of the area

about an axis was determined ( x dA )
x Integral of the second moment of area is called moment of
inertia ( x2dA)
x Consider the area ( A )
x By definition, the moment of inertia of the differential area
about the x and y axes are dIxx and dIyy
x dIxx = y2dA Ixx = y2 dA

x dIyy = x2dA Iyy = x2 dA

3.6 Parallel axis theorem for an area

The rotational inertia about any axis is the sum of
second moment of inertia about a parallel axis
through the C.G and total area of the body times
square of the distance between the axes.
INN = ICG + Ah2

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
3.7 Perpendicular axis theorem for an area
If x, y & z are mutually perpendicular axes as shown, then
I zz  J  I xx  I yy

Z-axis is perpendicular to the plane of x y and vertical to this page as

shown in figure.

x To find the moment of inertia of the differential area about the pole (point of origin) or z-axis,
(r) is used. (r) is the perpendicular distance from the pole to dA for the entire area
J = r2 dA = (x2 + y2 )dA = Ixx + Iyy (since r2 = x2 + y2 )
Where, J = polar moment of inertia

3.8 Moments of Inertia (area) of some common area

(i) MOI of Rectangular area
Moment of inertia about axis XX which passes
through centroid.
Take an element of width dy at a distance y
from XX axis.
? Area of the element (dA) = b u dy.
and Moment of Inertia of the element about XX

axis dA u y 2 b.y 2 .dy

?Total MOI about XX axis (Note it is area
moment of Inertia)
h h
2
2
2
bh3
I xx by dy 2 by 2 dy
h 0
12
2

3
bh
I xx
12
hb3
Similarly, we may find, I yy
12
bh3 hb3
?Polar moment of inertia (J) = Ixx + Iyy = 
12 12

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 Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
If we want to know the MOI about an axis NN passing
through the bottom edge or top edge.
Axis XX and NN are parallel and at a distance h/2.
Therefore INN = Ixx + Area u (distance) 2
2
bh3 h bh3
 buhu
12 2 3

Case-I: Square area

a4
I xx
12

Case-II: Square area with diagonal as axis

a4
I xx
12

Case-III: Rectangular area with a centrally

rectangular hole
Moment of inertia of the area = moment of inertia of BIG
rectangle moment of inertia of SMALL rectangle

BH 3 bh3
I xx 
12 12

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
(ii) MOI of a Circular area
The moment of inertia about axis XX this passes through
the centroid. It is very easy to find polar moment of inertia
about point O. Take an element of width dr at a distance
r from centre. Therefore, the moment of inertia of this
element about polar axis

d(J) = d(Ixx + Iyy ) = area of ring u (radius)2

or d(J) 2S rdr u r 2

Integrating both side we get

R
3 S R4 S D4
J
0
2S r dr
2 32
Due to summetry I xx I yy
J S D4
Therefore, I xx I yy
2 64

S D4 S D4
I xx I yy and J
64 32
Case-I: Moment of inertia of a circular

area with a concentric hole.

Moment of inertia of the area = moment of inertia of
BIG circle moment of inertia of SMALL circle.
S D4 S d4
Ixx = Iyy =
64 64
S
( D4  d4 )
64
S
and J ( D4  d4 )
32

Case-II: Moment of inertia of a semi-

circular area.
1
I NN of the momemt of total circular lamina
2
1 S D4 S D4
u
2 64 128

We know that distance of CG from base is

4r 2D
h  say 
3S 3S
i.e. distance of parallel axis XX and NN is (h)
? According to parallel axis theory

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 Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
2
I NN I G  Area  distance 
S D4 1 S D2 2
or I xx  u h
128 2 4
S D4 1 S D 2 2D
or I xx  u u
128 2 4 3S

or I xx 0.11R 4
Case III: Quarter circle area
IXX = one half of the moment of Inertia of the Semi-
circular area about XX.
1
I XX
2

u 0.11R4  0.055 R4

I XX 0.055 R 4
INN = one half of the moment of Inertia of the Semi-
circular area about NN.
1 S D4 S D4
? I NN u
2 64 128

(iii) Moment of Inertia of a Triangular area

(a) Moment of Inertia of a Triangular area of
a axis XX parallel to base and passes through
C.G.

bh3
I XX
36
(b) Moment of inertia of a triangle about an
axis passes through base

bh3
I NN
12

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
(iv) Moment of inertia of a thin circular ring:
Polar moment of Inertia

J R2 u area of whole ring

R 2 u 2S Rt 2S R 3 t

J
I XX IYY S R 3t
2

(v) Moment of inertia of a elliptical area

S ab3
I XX
4

Let us take an example: An I-section beam of 100 mm wide, 150 mm depth flange and web of
thickness 20 mm is used in a structure of length 5 m. Determine the Moment of Inertia (of area) of
cross-section of the beam.
Answer: Carefully observe the figure below. It has sections with symmetry about the neutral axis.

bh3
We may use standard value for a rectangle about an axis passes through centroid. i.e. I .
12
The section can thus be divided into convenient rectangles for each of which the neutral axis passes
I Beam I Re c tan gle - I Shaded area
0.100 u  0.150 3 0.40 u 0.1303 4
the centroid. -2 u m
12 12
1.183 u 10-4 m4

3.9 Radius of gyration

Consider area A with moment of inertia Ixx. Imagine
that the area is concentrated in a thin strip parallel to

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 Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
the x axis with equivalent Ixx.

I xx
I xx 2
kxx A or kxx
A
kxx =radius of gyration with respect to the x axis.

Similarly

I yy
I yy 2
kyy A or kyy
A

J
J ko2 A or ko
A
ko2 2
kxx 2
 kyy

Let us take an example: Find radius of gyration for a circular area of diameter d about central
axis.
Answer:

2
We know that, I xx K xx A

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid
4
Sd
I XX 64 d
or K XX
A S d2 4
4

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Moment of Inertia (Second moment of an area)

GATE-1. The second moment of a circular area about the diameter is given by (D is the diameter)[GATE-
2003]

D4 D4 D4 D4
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4 16 32 64
GATE-2. The area moment of inertia of a square of size 1 unit about its diagonal is:
[GATE-2001]
1 1 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 4 12 6

Radius of Gyration
Data for Q3Q4 are given below. Solve the problems and choose correct answers.
A reel of mass m and radius of gyration k is rolling down smoothly from rest with one end of the thread
wound on it held in the ceiling as depicted in the figure. Consider the thickness of the thread and its mass
negligible in comparison with the radius r of the hub and the reel mass m. Symbol g represents the
acceleration due to gravity. [GATE-2003]

GATE-3. The linear acceleration of the reel is:

gr 2 gk 2 grk m gr 2
(a) 2 (b) (c) (d)

r k2
r2 k 2 r 2
k2 r 2
k2
GATE-4. The tension in the thread is:
m gr 2 m grk m gk 2 mg
(a) 2 (b) 2 (c) (d)

r k 2

r k2 r 2
k 2
r 2
k2

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Centroid
IES-1. Assertion (A): Inertia force always acts through the centroid of the body and is directed opposite
to the acceleration of the centroid. [IES-2001]
Reason (R): It has always a tendency to retard the motion.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Radius of Gyration
IES-2. Figure shows a rigid body of mass m
having radius of gyration k about its
centre of gravity. It is to be replaced by
an equivalent dynamical system of two
masses placed at A and B. The mass at
A should be:
a m b m
(a) (b)
a b a b
m a m b
(c) (d)
3 b 2 a

[IES-2003]
IES-3. Force required to accelerate a cylindrical body which rolls without slipping on a horizontal plane
(mass of cylindrical body is m, radius of the cylindrical surface in contact with plane is r, radius
of gyration of body is k and acceleration of the body is a) is: [IES-2001]
(a) m k 2 / r 2 1 .a (b) m k 2 / r 2 .a (c) m k 2 .a (d) m k 2 / r 1 .a

IES-4. A body of mass m and radius of gyration k is to be replaced by two masses m 1 and m2 located at
distances h1 and h2 from the CG of the original body. An equivalent dynamic system will result,
if [IES-2001]
(a) h1 h2 k (b) h1 h2 k (c) h1h2 k h1h2 k 2
2 2 2 2
(d)

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Radius of Gyration
IAS-1. A wheel of centroidal radius of gyration 'k' is rolling on a horizontal surface with constant
velocity. It comes across an obstruction of height 'h' Because of its rolling speed, it just
overcomes the obstruction. To determine v, one should use the principle (s) of conservation of
[IAS 1994]
(a) Energy (b) Linear momentum
(c) Energy and linear momentum (d) Energy and angular momentum

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (d)

a 4 1
4

GATE-2. Ans. (c) I xx

12 12

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Chapter-3 Moment of Inertia and Centroid

GATE-3. Ans. (a) For downward linear motion mg T = mf, where f = linear tangential acceleration = r,
= rotational acceleration. Considering rotational motion Tr I .
f gr 2
or, T = m k 2 therefore mg T = mf gives f =
r2 r 2 k 2

f gr 2 m gk 2
GATE-4. Ans. (c) T m k 2 mk2 2 2 2
r 2

r r k 2

r k2
IES-1. Ans. (c) It has always a tendency to oppose the motion not retard. If we want to retard a motion
then it will wand to accelerate.
IES-2. Ans. (b)
IES-3. Ans. (a)
IES-4. Ans. (c)
IAS-1. Ans. (a)

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-2004
Question: When are I-sections preferred in engineering applications? Elaborate your answer.
Answer: I-section has large section modulus. It will reduce the stresses induced in the material. Since
I-section has the considerable area are far away from the natural so its section modulus
increased.

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 4. Bending Moment and Shear
Force Diagram
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
4.1 Shear Force and Bending Moment

At first we try to understand what shear force is and what is bending moment?
We will not introduce any other co-ordinate system.
We use general co-ordinate axis as shown in the
figure. This system will be followed in shear force and
bending moment diagram and in deflection of beam.
Here downward direction will be negative i.e.
negative Y-axis. Therefore downward deflection of the
We use above Co-ordinate system
beam will be treated as negative.

Some books fix a co-ordinate axis as shown in the

following figure. Here downward direction will be
positive i.e. positive Y-axis. Therefore downward
deflection of the beam will be treated as positive. As
beam is generally deflected in downward directions
and this co-ordinate system treats downward Some books use above co-ordinate system
deflection is positive deflection.
Consider a cantilever beam as shown subjected to
external load P. If we imagine this beam to be cut by
a section X-X, we see that the applied force tend to
displace the left-hand portion of the beam relative to
the right hand portion, which is fixed in the wall.
This tendency is resisted by internal forces between
the two parts of the beam. At the cut section a
resistance shear force (Vx) and a bending moment
(Mx) is induced. This resistance shear force and the
bending moment at the cut section is shown in the
left hand and right hand portion of the cut beam.
Using the three equations of equilibrium

F x 0 , Fy 0 and M i 0

We find that Vx P and M x P . x

In this chapter we want to show pictorially the

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
variation of shear force and bending moment in a
beam as a function of x' measured from one end of
the beam.

Shear Force (V) equal in magnitude but opposite in direction

to the algebraic sum (resultant) of the components in the
direction perpendicular to the axis of the beam of all external
loads and support reactions acting on either side of the section
being considered.

Bending Moment (M) equal in magnitude but opposite in

direction to the algebraic sum of the moments about (the
centroid of the cross section of the beam) the section of all
external loads and support reactions acting on either side of
the section being considered.

What are the benefits of drawing shear force and bending moment diagram?
The benefits of drawing a variation of shear force and bending moment in a beam as a function of x'
measured from one end of the beam is that it becomes easier to determine the maximum absolute
value of shear force and bending moment. The shear force and bending moment diagram gives a
clear picture in our mind about the variation of SF and BM throughout the entire section of the
beam.
Further, the determination of value of bending moment as a function of x' becomes very important
so as to determine the value of deflection of beam subjected to a given loading where we will use the

d 2y
formula, EI Mx .
dx 2

4.2 Notation and sign convention

x Shear force (V)
Positive Shear Force
A shearing force having a downward direction to the right hand side of a section or upwards
to the left hand of the section will be taken as positive. It is the usual sign conventions to be
followed for the shear force. In some book followed totally opposite sign convention.

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

The upward direction shearing The downward direction

force which is on the left hand shearing force which is on the
of the section XX is positive right hand of the section XX is
shear force. positive shear force.

Negative Shear Force

A shearing force having an upward direction to the right hand side of a section or downwards
to the left hand of the section will be taken as negative.

The downward direction The upward direction shearing

shearing force which is on the force which is on the right
left hand of the section XX is hand of the section XX is
negative shear force. negative shear force.

x Bending Moment (M)

Positive Bending Moment
A bending moment causing concavity upwards will be taken as positive and called as
sagging bending moment.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Sagging

If the bending moment of If the bending moment of A bending moment causing

the left hand of the section the right hand of the concavity upwards will be
XX is clockwise then it is a section XX is anti- taken as positive and
positive bending moment. clockwise then it is a called as sagging bending
positive bending moment. moment.

Negative Bending Moment

Hogging
If the bending moment of If the bending moment of A bending moment causing
the left hand of the the right hand of the convexity upwards will be
section XX is anti- section XX is clockwise taken as negative and called
clockwise then it is a then it is a positive as hogging bending moment.
positive bending moment. bending moment.

Way to remember sign convention

x Remember in the Cantilever beam both Shear force and BM are negative (ive).

4.3 Relation between S.F (Vx), B.M. (Mx) & Load (w)

dVx
x = -w (load) The value of the distributed load at any point in the beam is
dx
equal to the slope of the shear force curve. (Note that the sign of this rule may change
depending on the sign convention used for the external distributed load).

dM x
x = Vx The value of the shear force at any point in the beam is equal to the slope
dx
of the bending moment curve.

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

4.4 Procedure for drawing shear force and bending moment diagram
Construction of shear force diagram
x From the loading diagram of the beam constructed shear force diagram.
x First determine the reactions.
x Then the vertical components of forces and reactions are successively summed from the left
end of the beam to preserve the mathematical sign conventions adopted. The shear at a
section is simply equal to the sum of all the vertical forces to the left of the section.
x The shear force curve is continuous unless there is a point force on the beam. The curve then
jumps by the magnitude of the point force (+ for upward force).
x When the successive summation process is used, the shear force diagram should end up with
the previously calculated shear (reaction at right end of the beam). No shear force acts
through the beam just beyond the last vertical force or reaction. If the shear force diagram
closes in this fashion, then it gives an important check on mathematical calculations. i.e. The
shear force will be zero at each end of the beam unless a point force is applied at the end.

Construction of bending moment diagram

x The bending moment diagram is obtained by proceeding continuously along the length of
beam from the left hand end and summing up the areas of shear force diagrams using proper
sign convention.

x The process of obtaining the moment diagram from the shear force diagram by summation is
exactly the same as that for drawing shear force diagram from load diagram.

x The bending moment curve is continuous unless there is a point moment on the beam. The
curve then jumps by the magnitude of the point moment (+ for CW moment).

x We know that a constant shear force produces a uniform change in the bending moment,
resulting in straight line in the moment diagram. If no shear force exists along a certain
portion of a beam, then it indicates that there is no change in moment takes place. We also
know that dM/dx= Vx therefore, from the fundamental theorem of calculus the maximum or
minimum moment occurs where the shear is zero.

x The bending moment will be zero at each free or pinned end of the beam. If the end is built
in, the moment computed by the summation must be equal to the one calculated initially for
the reaction.

4.5 Different types of Loading and their S.F & B.M Diagram
(i) A Cantilever beam with a concentrated load P at its free end.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Shear force:
At a section a distance x from free end consider the forces to
the left, then (Vx) = - P (for all values of x) negative in sign
i.e. the shear force to the left of the x-section are in downward
direction and therefore negative.

Bending Moment:
Taking moments about the section gives (obviously to the left
S.F and B.M diagram
of the section) Mx = -P.x (negative sign means that the
moment on the left hand side of the portion is in the
anticlockwise direction and is therefore taken as negative
according to the sign convention) so that the maximum
bending moment occurs at the fixed end i.e. Mmax = - PL
(at x = L)

(ii) A Cantilever beam with uniformly distributed load over the whole length
When a cantilever beam is subjected to a uniformly
distributed load whose intensity is given w /unit length.
Shear force:
Consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance of x from
the free end. If we just take the resultant of all the forces on
the left of the X-section, then
Vx = -w.x for all values of x'.
At x = 0, Vx = 0
At x = L, Vx = -wL (i.e. Maximum at fixed end)
Plotting the equation Vx = -w.x, we get a straight line
because it is a equation of a straight line y (Vx) = m(- w) .x
Bending Moment:
Bending Moment at XX is obtained by treating the load to the
S.F and B.M diagram
left of XX as a concentrated load of the same value (w.x)
acting through the centre of gravity at x/2.
Therefore, the bending moment at any cross-section XX is

x w .x 2
Mx  w .x  . 
2 2
Therefore the variation of bending moment is according to parabolic law.
The extreme values of B.M would be
at x = 0, Mx = 0

wL2
and x = L, Mx = 
2

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

wL2
Maximum bending moment, Mmax at fixed end
2
Another way to describe a cantilever beam with uniformly distributed load (UDL) over its whole
length.

(iii) A Cantilever beam loaded as shown below draw its S.F and B.M diagram

In the region 0 < x < a

Following the same rule as followed previously, we get
Vx =- P; and Mx = - P.x
In the region a < x < L

Vx =- P +P=0; and Mx = - P.x +P  x  a  P.a

S.F and B.M diagram

(iv) Let us take an example: Consider a cantilever bean of 5 m length. It carries a uniformly
distributed load 3 KN/m and a concentrated load of 7 kN at the free end and 10 kN at 3 meters from
the fixed end.

Draw SF and BM diagram.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Answer: In the region 0 < x < 2 m
Consider any cross section XX at a distance x from free end.
Shear force (Vx) = -7- 3x
So, the variation of shear force is linear.
at x = 0, Vx = -7 kN
at x = 2 m , Vx = -7 - 3 u 2 = -13 kN
at point Z Vx = -7 -3 u 2-10 = -23 kN

x 3x 2
Bending moment (Mx) = -7x - (3x).   7x
2 2
So, the variation of bending force is parabolic.
at x = 0, Mx = 0
2
at x = 2 m, Mx = -7 u 2 (3 u 2) u = - 20 kNm
2
In the region 2 m < x < 5 m
Consider any cross section YY at a distance x from free
end
Shear force (Vx) = -7 - 3x 10 = -17- 3x
So, the variation of shear force is linear.
at x = 2 m, Vx = - 23 kN
at x = 5 m, Vx = - 32 kN

x
Bending moment (Mx) = - 7x (3x) u - 10 (x - 2)
2
3
 x 2  17 x  20
2
So, the variation of bending force is parabolic.
3
at x = 2 m, Mx  u 22  17 u 2  20 = - 20 kNm
2
at x = 5 m, Mx = - 102.5 kNm

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(v) A Cantilever beam carrying uniformly varying load from zero at free end and w/unit
length at the fixed end

Consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance of x from the free end.

w
At this point load (wx) = .x
L
L L
w wL
Therefore total load (W) w x dx
0
L .xdx =
0
2

Shear force  Vx  area of ABC (load triangle)

1 w wx 2
 . x .x 
2 L 2L
? The shear force variation is parabolic.
at x = 0, Vx 0
WL  WL
at x = L, Vx  i.e. Maximum Shear force (Vmax ) at fixed end
2 2

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Bending moment  Mx  load u distance from centroid of triangle ABC
wx 2 2x wx 3
.  
2L 3 6L
? The bending moment variation is cubic.
at x= 0, Mx 0
wL2 wL2
at x = L, Mx  i.e. Maximum Bending moment (Mmax ) at fixed end.
6 6

Alternative way :  Integration method

d  Vx  w
We know that  load  .x
dx L
w
or d(Vx )  .x .dx
L
Integrating both side
Vx x
w
d  Vx 
0

0
L
. x .dx

w x2
or Vx  .
L 2
Again we know that
d  Mx  wx 2
Vx -
dx 2L
wx 2
or d Mx  - dx
2L

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Integrating both side we get  at x=0,Mx =0 
Mx x
wx 2

0
d(Mx ) 
0 2L
.dx

w x3 wx 3
or Mx - -
2L 3 6L
(vi) A Cantilever beam carrying gradually varying load from zero at fixed end and
w/unit length at the free end

wL2 wL
Considering equilibrium we get, MA and Reaction R A 
3 2
Considering any cross-section XX which is at a distance of x from the fixed end.
W
At this point load (Wx ) .x
L
Shear force  Vx  RA  area of triangle ANM

wL 1 w wL wx 2
- . .x .x = + -
2 2 L 2 2L
? The shear force variation is parabolic.
wL wL
at x 0, Vx  i.e. Maximum shear force, Vmax 
2 2
at x L, Vx 0

wx 2 2x
Bending moment  Mx  =R A .x - . - MA
2L 3
wL wx 3 wL2
=.x - -
2 6L 3
? The bending moment variation is cubic
wL2 wL2
at x = 0, Mx  i.e.Maximum B.M. Mmax   .
3 3
at x L, Mx 0

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(vii) A Cantilever beam carrying a moment M at free end

Consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance of x from the free end.

Shear force: Vx = 0 at any point.
Bending moment (Mx) = -M at any point, i.e. Bending moment is constant throughout the
length.

(viii) A Simply supported beam with a concentrated load P at its mid span.

P
Considering equilibrium we get, R A = RB =
2
Now consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance of x from left end A and section YY at
a distance from left end A, as shown in figure below.
Shear force: In the region 0 < x < L/2

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Vx = RA = + P/2 (it is constant)
In the region L/2 < x < L
P
Vx = RA P = - P = - P/2 (it is constant)
2
Bending moment: In the region 0 < x < L/2
P
Mx = .x (its variation is linear)
2
PL
at x = 0, Mx = 0 and at x = L/2 Mx = i.e. maximum
4

PL
Maximum bending moment, Mmax at x = L/2 (at mid-point)
4
In the region L/2 < x < L
P PL P
Mx = .x P(x - L/2) =  .x (its variation is linear)
2 2 2
PL
at x = L/2 , Mx = and at x = L, Mx = 0
4

(ix) A Simply supported beam with a concentrated load P is not at its mid span.

Pb Pa
Considering equilibrium we get, RA = and RB =
L L
Now consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance x from left end A and another section
YY at a distance x from end A as shown in figure below.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Shear force: In the range 0 < x < a
Pb
Vx = RA = + (it is constant)
L
In the range a < x < L
Pa
Vx = RA - P = - (it is constant)
L
Bending moment: In the range 0 < x < a
Pb
Mx = +RA.x = .x (it is variation is linear)
L
Pab
at x = 0, Mx = 0 and at x = a, Mx = (i.e. maximum)
L
In the range a < x < L
Pb
Mx = RA.x P(x- a) = .x P.x + Pa (Put b = L - a)
L
x
= Pa (1 - Pa 1  )
L
Pab
at x = a, Mx = and at x = L, Mx = 0
L

(x) A Simply supported beam with two concentrated load P from a distance a both end.
The loading is shown below diagram

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Take a section at a distance x from the left support. This section is applicable for any value of x just
to the left of the applied force P. The shear, remains constant and is +P. The bending moment varies
linearly from the support, reaching a maximum of +Pa.

A section applicable anywhere between the two applied forces. Shear force is not necessary to
maintain equilibrium of a segment in this part of the beam. Only a constant bending moment of +Pa
must be resisted by the beam in this zone.

Such a state of bending or flexure is called pure bending.

Shear and bending-moment diagrams for this loading condition are shown below.

(xi) A Simply supported beam with a uniformly distributed load (UDL) through out its
length

We will solve this problem by following two alternative ways.

(a) By Method of Section
wL
Considering equilibrium we get RA = RB =
2
Now Consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance x from left end A.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Then the section view

wL
Shear force: Vx =  wx
2
(i.e. S.F. variation is linear)
wL
at x = 0, Vx =
2
at x = L/2, Vx = 0
wL
at x = L, Vx = -
2
wL wx 2
Bending moment: M x .x 
2 2
(i.e. B.M. variation is parabolic)
at x = 0, Mx = 0
at x = L, Mx = 0
Now we have to determine maximum bending
moment and its position.

d Mx  d M x 
For maximum B.M: 0 i .e. Vx 0  Vx
dx dx
wL L
or  wx 0 or x
2 2

wL2
Therefore, maximum bending moment, Mmax at x = L/2
8
(a) By Method of Integration
Shear force:

d Vx 
We know that, w
dx
or d Vx  wdx

wL
Integrating both side we get (at x =0, Vx = )
2

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Vx x

d V 
wL
x  wdx
0

2

wL
or Vx  wx
2
wL
or Vx  wx
2
Bending moment:

d Mx 
We know that, Vx
dx
wL
or d  M x  Vx dx 2  wx dx

Integrating both side we get (at x =0, Vx =0)
Mx x
wL
d Mx   wx dx
o 0 2
wL wx 2
or M x .x 
2 2
Let us take an example: A loaded beam as shown below. Draw its S.F and B.M diagram.

Considering equilibrium we get

M A
0 gives
-  200 u 4  u 2  3000 u 4  RB u 8 0
or RB 1700N

And R A  RB 200 u 4  3000

or RA 2100N

Now consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance 'x' from left end A and
as shown in figure

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

In the region 0 < x < 4m

Shear force (Vx) = RA 200x = 2100 200 x

x
Bending moment (Mx) = RA .x 200 x . = 2100 x -100 x
2
2

at x = 0, Vx = 2100 N, Mx = 0

at x = 4m, Vx = 1300 N, Mx = 6800 N.m

In the region 4 m < x < 8 m

Shear force (Vx) = RA - 200 u 4 3000 = -1700

Bending moment (Mx) = RA. x - 200 u 4 (x-2) 3000 (x- 4)

= 2100 x 800 x + 1600 3000x +12000 = 13600 -1700 x

at x = 4 m, Vx = -1700 N, Mx = 6800 Nm

at x = 8 m, Vx = -1700 N, Mx = 0

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

(xii) A Simply supported beam with a gradually varying load (GVL) zero at one end and
w/unit length at other span.

1
Consider equilibrium of the beam = wL acting at a point C at a distance 2L/3 to the left end A.
2
M B
0 gives
wL L
R A .L - . 0
2 3
wL
or R A
6
wL
Similarly M A
0 gives RB
3
w
The free body diagram of section A - XX as shown below, Load at section XX, (wx) = x
L

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1 w wx 2
The resulted of that part of the distributed load which acts on this free body is  x . x
2 L 2L
applied at a point Z, distance x/3 from XX section.

wx 2 wL wx 2
Shear force (Vx) = R A - -
2L 6 2L
Therefore the variation of shear force is parabolic
wL
at x = 0, Vx =
6
wL
at x = L, Vx = -
3
wL wx 2 x wL wx 3
and Bending Moment (Mx ) .x  . .x 
6 2L 3 6 6L
The variation of BM is cubic
at x = 0, Mx = 0
at x = L, Mx = 0

d  Mx  d  Mx 
For maximum BM; 0 i.e. Vx 0  Vx
dx dx

wL wx 2 L
or - 0 or x
6 2L 3
3
wL L w L wL2
and Mmax u  u
6 3 6L 3 9 3

wL2
i.e. Mmax at x
L
3
9 3

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(xiii) A Simply supported beam with a gradually varying load (GVL) zero at each end and
w/unit length at mid span.

1 L wL
Consider equilibrium of the beam AB total load on the beam 2u u u w
2 2 2
wL
Therefore R A RB
4
2w
The free body diagram of section A XX as shown below, load at section XX (wx) .x
L

1 2w wx 2
The resultant of that part of the distributed load which acts on this free body is .x. .x
2 L L
applied at a point, distance x/3 from section XX.
Shear force (Vx):

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
In the region 0 < x < L/2

wx 2 wL wx 2
 Vx  RA  
L 4 L
Therefore the variation of shear force is parabolic.
wL
at x = 0, Vx =
4
at x = L/4, Vx = 0
In the region of L/2 < x < L
The Diagram will be Mirror image of AC.

Bending moment (Mx):

In the region 0 < x < L/2

wL 1 2wx wL wx 3
Mx .x  .x. . x / 3 -
4 2 L 4 3L
The variation of BM is cubic
at x = 0, Mx = 0

wL2
at x = L/2, Mx =
12
In the region L/2 < x < L
BM diagram will be mirror image of AC.
For maximum bending moment

d  Mx  d  Mx 
0 i.e. Vx 0  Vx
dx dx
wL wx 2 L
or - 0 or x
4 L 2
wL2
and Mmax
12

wL2
i.e. Mmax at x
L
2
12

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

(xiv) A Simply supported beam with a gradually varying load (GVL) zero at mid span and
w/unit length at each end.

We now superimpose two beams as

(1) Simply supported beam with a UDL
through at its length
wL
 Vx 1  wx
2
wL wx 2
Mx 1 .x 
2 2

And (2) a simply supported beam with a gradually varying load (GVL) zero at each end and w/unit
length at mind span.
In the range 0 < x < L/2

wL wx 2
 Vx 2 
4 L
wL wx 3
Mx 2 .x 
4 3L
Now superimposing we get
Shear force (Vx):
In the region of 0< x < L/2

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
wL wL wx 2
Vx  Vx 1   Vx 2 -wx  -
2 4 L
w 2
 x - L/2 
L
Therefore the variation of shear force is parabolic
wL
at x = 0, Vx = +
4
at x = L/2, Vx = 0
In the region L/2 < x < L
The diagram will be mirror image of AC

Bending moment (Mx) = Mx 1 - Mx 2 =

wL wx 2 wL wx 3 wx 3 wx 2 wL
.x  
.x    .x
2 2 4 3L 3L 2 4

The variation of BM is cubic

at x 0, Mx 0
wx 2
at x L / 2, Mx
24

(xv) A simply supported beam with a gradually varying load (GVL) w1/unit length at one
end and w2/unit length at other end.

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At first we will treat this problem by considering a UDL of identifying (w1)/unit length over the
whole length and a varying load of zero at one end to (w2- w1)/unit length at the other end. Then
superimpose the two loadings.

Consider a section XX at a distance x from left end A

(i) Simply supported beam with UDL (w1) over whole length
w1L
 Vx 1  w1x
2
w1L 1
Mx 1 .x  w1x 2
2 2
And (ii) simply supported beam with (GVL) zero at one end (w2- w1) at other end gives

w 2  w1   w 2  w1  x 2
Vx 2
6 2L
L w 2  w1  x 3
 M x 2 w 2  w 1  . .x 
6 6L
Now superimposing we get
w1L w 2L x2
Shear force  Vx   Vx 1 +  Vx 2 +  w 1x   w 2  w1 
3 6 2L
? The SF variation is parabolic
w1L w 2L L
at x 0, Vx   2w1  w 2 
3 6 6
L
at x L, Vx   w1  2w 2 
6
w1L wL 1 w -w
Bending moment  Mx  Mx 1  Mx 2 .x  1 .x  w1x 2  2 1 .x 3
3 6 2 6L
?The BM variation is cubic.

at x 0, Mx 0
at x L, Mx 0

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(xvi) A Simply supported beam carrying a continuously distributed load. The intensity of
Sx
the load at any point is, w x w sin . Where x is the distance from each end of
L
the beam.

We will use Integration method as it is easier in this case.

d  Vx  d Mx 
We know that load and Vx
dx dx
d  Vx  Sx
Therefore w sin
dx L
Sx
d  Vx  w sin dx
L
Integrating both side we get
Sx
w cos
Sx L  A wL Sx
dV  x  w sin dx
L
or Vx 
S

S
cos A
L
L
> where, A constant of Integration@

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Again we know that
d Mx  wL Sx
Vx or d Mx  Vx dx cos  A dx
dx S L
Integrating both side we get
wL Sx
sin
S L  Ax + B wL2 Sx
Mx
S S2
sin  Ax + B
L
L
[Where B = constant of Integration]
Now apply boundary conditions
At x = 0, Mx = 0 and at x = L, Mx = 0
This gives A = 0 and B = 0
wL Sx wL
? Shear force  Vx  cos and Vmax at x 0
S L S
wL2 Sx
And Mx 2
sin
S L
wL2
? Mmax at x = L/2
S2

(xvii) A Simply supported beam with a couple or moment at a distance a from left end.

Considering equilibrium we get

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
M A 0 gives
M
RB L +M 0 or RB 
L
and M B 0 gives
M
 R A L +M 0 or R A
L

Now consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance x from left end A and another section YY

at a distance x from left end A as shown in figure.

In the region 0 < x < a

M
Shear force (Vx) = RA =
L

M
Bending moment (Mx) = RA.x = .x
L

In the region a< x < L

M
Shear force (Vx) = RA =
L

M
Bending moment (Mx) = RA.x M = .x - M
L

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

(xviii) A Simply supported beam with an eccentric load

When the beam is subjected to an eccentric load, the eccentric load is to be changed into a couple =
Force u (distance travel by force)
= P.a (in this case) and a force = P
Therefore equivalent load diagram will be

Considering equilibrium
M A 0 gives
-P.(L/2) + P.a + RB u L = 0
P P.a P P.a
or RB =  and RA + RB = P gives RA = 
2 L 2 L
Now consider any cross-section XX which is at a distance x from left end A and another section YY
at a distance x from left end A as shown in figure.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

In the region 0 < x < L/2

P P.a
Shear force (Vx) = 
2 L
P Pa
Bending moment (Mx) = RA . x =  .x
2 L
In the region L/2 < x < L
P Pa P Pa
Shear force (Vx) =  P =- 
2 L 2 L
Bending moment (Vx) = RA . x P.( x - L/2 ) M
PL P Pa
=   .x - Pa
2 2 L

4.6 Bending Moment diagram of Statically Indeterminate beam

Beams for which reaction forces and internal forces cannot be found out from static equilibrium
equations alone are called statically indeterminate beam. This type of beam requires deformation
equation in addition to static equilibrium equations to solve for unknown forces.

Statically determinate - Equilibrium conditions sufficient to compute reactions.

Statically indeterminate - Deflections (Compatibility conditions) along with equilibrium equations
should be used to find out reactions.

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Type of Loading & B.M Diagram Reaction Bending Moment

R A= R B =
P PL
2 M =M = -
A B

wL wL2
M =M = -
RA = RB =
2 A B

12
Pb 2 Pab 2
RA (3a  b) MA = - 
L3 L2
Pa 2 Pa 2b
RB (3b  a) MB = - 
L3 L2

3wL
R A= R B =
16
5wL
Rc =
8

RA RB

+
- -

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4.7 Load and Bending Moment diagram from Shear Force diagram
OR
Load and Shear Force diagram from Bending Moment diagram

If S.F. Diagram for a beam is given, then

(i) If S.F. diagram consists of rectangle then the load will be point load

(ii) If S.F diagram consists of inclined line then the load will be UDL on that portion

(iii) If S.F diagram consists of parabolic curve then the load will be GVL

(iv) If S.F diagram consists of cubic curve then the load distribute is parabolic.

After finding load diagram we can draw B.M diagram easily.

If B.M Diagram for a beam is given, then

(i) If B.M diagram consists of inclined line then the load will be free point load

(ii) If B.M diagram consists of parabolic curve then the load will be U.D.L.

(iii) If B.M diagram consists of cubic curve then the load will be G.V.L.

(iv) If B.M diagram consists of fourth degree polynomial then the load distribution is
parabolic.

Let us take an example: Following is the S.F diagram of a beam is given. Find its loading
diagram.

Answer: From A-E inclined straight line so load will be UDL and in AB = 2 m length load = 6 kN if
UDL is w N/m then w.x = 6 or w u 2 = 6 or w = 3 kN/m after that S.F is constant so no force is
there. At last a 6 kN for vertical force complete the diagram then the load diagram will be

As there is no support at left end it must be a cantilever beam.

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 Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

4.8 Point of Contraflexure

In a beam if the bending moment changes sign at a point, the point itself having zero bending
moment, the beam changes curvature at this point of zero bending moment and this point is called
the point of contra flexure.

Consider a loaded beam as shown below along with the B.M diagrams and deflection diagram.

In this diagram we noticed that for the beam loaded as in this case, the bending moment diagram is
partly positive and partly negative. In the deflected shape of the beam just below the bending
moment diagram shows that left hand side of the beam is sagging' while the right hand side of the
beam is hogging.

The point C on the beam where the curvature changes from sagging to hogging is a point of
contraflexure.

x There can be more than one point of contraflexure in a beam.

4.9 General expression

d4y
x EI Z
dx 2

d3y
x EI Vx
dx3

d2y
x EI 2 Mx
dx

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
dy
x = = slope
dx
x y= G = Deflection
x Flexural rigidity = EI

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Shear Force (S.F.) and Bending Moment (B.M.)

GATE-1. A concentrated force, F is applied (perpendicular to
the plane of the figure) on the tip of the bent bar
shown in Figure. The equivalent load at a section
close to the fixed end is:
(a) Force F
(b) Force F and bending moment FL
(c) Force F and twisting moment FL
(d) Force F bending moment F L, and twisting
moment FL

[GATE-1999]

GATE-2. The shear force in a beam subjected to pure positive bending is (positive/zero/negative)
[GATE-1995]

Cantilever
GATE-3. Two identical cantilever beams are supported as shown, with their free ends in contact through
a rigid roller. After the load P is applied, the free ends will have [GATE-2005]

(a) Equal deflections but not equal slopes

(b) Equal slopes but not equal deflections
(c) Equal slopes as well as equal deflections
(d) Neither equal slopes nor equal deflections

GATE-4. A beam is made up of two identical

bars AB and BC, by hinging them
together at B. The end A is built-in
(cantilevered) and the end C is
simply-supported. With the load P
acting as shown, the bending
moment at A is:

[GATE-2005]
PL 3PL
(a) Zero (b) (c) (d) Indeterminate
2 2

Cantilever with Uniformly Distributed Load

GATE-5. The shapes of the bending moment diagram for a uniform cantilever beam carrying a uniformly
distributed load over its length is: [GATE-2001]
(a) A straight line (b) A hyperbola (c) An ellipse (d) A parabola

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Cantilever Carrying load Whose Intensity varies
GATE-6. A cantilever beam carries the anti-
symmetric load shown, where o is the
peak intensity of the distributed load.
Qualitatively, the correct bending
moment diagram for this beam is:

[GATE-2005]

Simply Supported Beam Carrying Concentrated Load

L
GATE-7. A concentrated load of P acts on a simply supported beam of span L at a distance from the
3
left support. The bending moment at the point of application of the load is given by[GATE-2003]
PL 2 PL PL 2 PL
(a) (b) (c ) (d )
3 3 9 9

GATE-8. A simply supported beam carries a load 'P'

through a bracket, as shown in Figure. The
maximum bending moment in the beam is
(a) PI/2 (b) PI/2 + aP/2
(c) PI/2 + aP (d) PI/2 aP

[GATE-2000]

Simply Supported Beam Carrying a Uniformly Distributed

Load
Statement for Linked Answer and Questions Q9-Q10:
A mass less beam has a loading pattern as shown in the figure. The beam is of rectangular cross-section
with a width of 30 mm and height of 100 mm. [GATE-2010]

GATE-9. The maximum bending moment occurs at

(a) Location B (b) 2675 mm to the right of A

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
(c) 2500 mm to the right of A (d) 3225 mm to the right of A

GATE-10. The maximum magnitude of bending stress (in MPa) is given by

(a) 60.0 (b) 67.5 (c) 200.0 (d) 225.0

Data for Q11-Q12 are given below. Solve the problems and choose correct answers
A steel beam of breadth 120 mm and height
750 mm is loaded as shown in the figure.
Assume Esteel= 200 GPa.

[GATE-2004]
GATE-11. The beam is subjected to a maximum bending moment of
(a) 3375 kNm (b) 4750 kNm (c) 6750 kNm (d) 8750 kNm

GATE-12. The value of maximum deflection of the beam is:

(a) 93.75 mm (b) 83.75 mm (c) 73.75 mm (d) 63.75 mm

Statement for Linked Answer and Questions Q13-Q14:

A simply supported beam of span length 6m and 75mm diameter carries a uniformly distributed load of 1.5
kN/m [GATE-2006]

GATE-13. What is the maximum value of bending moment?

(a) 9 kNm (b) 13.5 kNm (c) 81 kNm (d) 125 kNm

GATE-14. What is the maximum value of bending stress?

(a) 162.98 MPa (b) 325.95 MPa (c) 625.95 Mpa (d) 651.90 Mpa

Simply Supported Beam Carrying a Load whose Intensity

varies Uniformly from Zero at each End to w per Unit Run
at the MiD Span
GATE-15. A simply supported beam is
subjected to a distributed loading
as shown in the diagram given
below:
What is the maximum shear force
in the beam?
(a) WL/3 (b) WL/2
(c) WL/3 (d) WL/6

[IES-2004]
GATE-16. A simply supported beam of length 'l' is subjected to a symmetrical uniformly varying load with
zero intensity at the ends and intensity w (load per unit length) at the mid span. What is the
maximum bending moment? [IAS-2004]
3wl 2 wl 2 wl 2 5 wl 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
8 12 24 12

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Shear Force (S.F.) and Bending Moment (B.M.)

IES-1. A lever is supported on two hinges at
A and C. It carries a force of 3 kN as
shown in the above figure. The
bending moment at B will be
(a) 3 kN-m (b) 2 kN-m
(c) 1 kN-m (d) Zero

[IES-1998]
IES-2. A beam subjected to a load P is shown in the
given figure. The bending moment at the support
AA of the beam will be
(a) PL (b) PL/2
(c) 2PL (d) zero

[IES-1997]
IES-3. The bending moment (M) is constant over a length segment (I) of a beam. The shearing force
will also be constant over this length and is given by [IES-1996]
(a) M/l (b) M/2l (c) M/4l (d) None of the above

IES-4. A rectangular section beam subjected to a bending moment M varying along its length is
required to develop same maximum bending stress at any cross-section. If the depth of the
section is constant, then its width will vary as [IES-1995]
(a) M (b) M (c) M2 (d) 1/M

IES-5. Consider the following statements: [IES-1995]

If at a section distant from one of the ends of the beam, M represents the bending moment. V
the shear force and w the intensity of loading, then
1. dM/dx = V 2. dV/dx = w
3. dw/dx = y (the deflection of the beam at the section)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3

IES-5a Shear force and bending

moment diagrams for a 200 N
beam ABCD are shown A D
in figure. It can be B C
300 N
concluded that
(a) The beam has 10 m 25 m
three supports
(b) End A is fixed
(c) A couple of 2000
Nm acts at C
3000 Nm 3000 Nm
(d) A uniformly
distributed load
is confined to 1000 Nm
portion BC only A
B C D
10 m 10 m 15 m
[IES-2010]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Cantilever
IES-6. The given figure shows a beam BC simply supported at C and hinged at B (free end) of a
cantilever AB. The beam and the cantilever carry forces of

100 kg and 200 kg respectively. The bending moment at B is: [IES-1995]

(a) Zero (b) 100 kg-m (c) 150 kg-m (d) 200 kg-m

IES-7. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
[IES-1993, 2011]
List-I List-II
(Condition of beam) (Bending moment diagram)
A. Subjected to bending moment at the 1. Triangle
end of a cantilever
B. Cantilever carrying uniformly distributed 2. Cubic parabola
load over the whole length
C. Cantilever carrying linearly varying load 3. Parabola
from zero at the fixed end to maximum at
the support
D. A beam having load at the centre and 4. Rectangle
supported at the ends
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 1 2 3 (b) 4 3 2 1
(c) 3 4 2 1 (d) 3 4 1 2

IES-8. If the shear force acting at every section of a beam is of the same magnitude and of the same
direction then it represents a [IES-1996]
(a) Simply supported beam with a concentrated load at the centre.
(b) Overhung beam having equal overhang at both supports and carrying equal concentrated
loads acting in the same direction at the free ends.
(c) Cantilever subjected to concentrated load at the free end.
(d) Simply supported beam having concentrated loads of equal magnitude and in the same
direction acting at equal distances from the supports.

Cantilever with Uniformly Distributed Load

IES-9. A uniformly distributed load (in kN/m) is acting over the entire length of a 3 m long
cantilever beam. If the shear force at the midpoint of cantilever is 6 kN, what is the value of ?
[IES-2009]
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 5

IES-10. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists:
[IES-2009]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 5 2 4 (b) 4 5 2 3
(c) 1 3 4 5 (d) 4 2 5 3

IES-11. The shearing force diagram for a beam

is shown in the above figure. The
bending moment diagram is
represented by which one of the
following?

[IES-2008]

IES-12. A cantilever beam having 5 m length is so loaded that it develops a shearing force of 20T and a
bending moment of 20 T-m at a section 2m from the free end. Maximum shearing force and
maximum bending moment developed in the beam under this load are respectively 50 T and 125
T-m. The load on the beam is: [IES-1995]
(a) 25 T concentrated load at free end
(b) 20T concentrated load at free end
(c) 5T concentrated load at free end and 2 T/m load over entire length
(d) 10 T/m udl over entire length

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Cantilever Carrying Uniformly Distributed Load for a Part
of its Length
IES-13. A vertical hanging bar of length L and weighing w N/ unit length carries a load W at the
bottom. The tensile force in the bar at a distance Y from the support will be given by[IES-1992]
W
a W wL b W w( L y) c W w y / L d W ( L y)
w

Cantilever Carrying load Whose Intensity varies

IES-14. A cantilever beam of 2m length supports a triangularly distributed load over its entire length,
the maximum of which is at the free end. The total load is 37.5 kN.What is the bending moment
at the fixed end? [IES 2007]
(a) 50 106 N mm (b) 12.5 106 N mm (c) 100 106 N mm (d) 25 106 N mm

Simply Supported Beam Carrying Concentrated Load

IES-15. Assertion (A): If the bending moment along the length of a beam is constant, then the beam
cross section will not experience any shear stress. [IES-1998]
Reason (R): The shear force acting on the beam will be zero everywhere along the length.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-16. Assertion (A): If the bending moment diagram is a rectangle, it indicates that the beam is
loaded by a uniformly distributed moment all along the length.
Reason (R): The BMD is a representation of internal forces in the beam and not the moment
applied on the beam. [IES-2002]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-17. The maximum bending moment in a simply supported beam of length L loaded by a
concentrated load W at the midpoint is given by [IES-1996]
WL WL WL
(a) WL (b) (c) (d)
2 4 8

IES-18. A simply supported beam is loaded as

shown in the above figure. The
maximum shear force in the beam
will be
(a) Zero (b) W
(c) 2W (d) 4W

[IES-1998]
IES-19. If a beam is subjected to a constant bending moment along its length, then the shear force will
[IES-1997]
(a) Also have a constant value everywhere along its length
(b) Be zero at all sections along the beam
(c) Be maximum at the centre and zero at the ends (d) zero at the centre and maximum at
the ends

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
IES-20. A loaded beam is shown in the
figure. The bending moment
diagram of the beam is best
represented as:

[IES-2000]

IES-21. A simply supported beam has equal over-hanging lengths and carries equal concentrated loads
P at ends. Bending moment over the length between the supports [IES-2003]
(a) Is zero (b) Is a non-zero constant
(c) Varies uniformly from one support to the other (d) Is maximum at mid-span

IES-22. The bending moment diagram for the case shown below will be q as shown in

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

[IES-1992]
IES-23. Which one of the following
portions of the loaded beam
shown in the given figure is
subjected to pure bending?
(a) AB (b)DE
(c) AE (d) BD
[IES-1999]

IES-24. Constant bending moment over span "l" will occur in [IES-1995]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
IES-25. For the beam shown in the above figure,
the elastic curve between the supports B
and C will be:
(a) Circular (b) Parabolic
(c) Elliptic (d) A straight line

[IES-1998]

IES-26. A beam is simply supported at its ends and is loaded by a couple at its mid-span as shown in
figure A. Shear force diagram for the beam is given by the figure.
[IES-1994]

(a) B (b) C (c) D (d) E

IES-27. A beam AB is hinged-supported at its ends and is loaded by couple P.c. as shown in the given
figure. The magnitude or shearing force at a section x of the beam is:
[IES-1993]

(a) 0 (b) P (c) P/2L (d) P.c./2L

Simply Supported Beam Carrying a Uniformly Distributed

Load
IES-28. A freely supported beam at its ends carries a central concentrated load, and maximum bending
moment is M. If the same load be uniformly distributed over the beam length, then what is the
maximum bending moment? [IES-2009]
M M
(a) M (b) (c) (d) 2M
2 3

Simply Supported Beam Carrying a Load whos Intensity

varies uniformly from Zero at each End to w per
Unit Run at the MiD Span

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
IES-29. A simply supported beam is
subjected to a distributed loading
as shown in the diagram given
below:
What is the maximum shear force
in the beam?
(a) WL/3 (b) WL/2
(c) WL/3 (d) WL/6

[IES-2004]

Simply Supported Beam carrying a Load whos Intensity

varies
IES-30. A beam having uniform cross-section carries a uniformly distributed load of intensity q per unit
length over its entire span, and its mid-span deflection is .
The value of mid-span deflection of the same beam when the same load is distributed with
intensity varying from 2q unit length at one end to zero at the other end is: [IES-1995]
(a) 1/3 (b) 1/2 (c) 2/3 (d)

Simply Supported Beam with Equal Overhangs and

carrying a Uniformly Distributed Load
IES-31. A beam, built-in at both ends, carries a uniformly distributed load over its entire span as shown
in figure-I. Which one of the diagrams given below, represents bending moment distribution
along the length of the beam?
[IES-1996]

The Points of Contraflexure

IES-32. The point of contraflexure is a point where: [IES-2005]
(a) Shear force changes sign (b) Bending moment changes sign
(c) Shear force is maximum (d) Bending moment is maximum

IES-33. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists:
[IES-2000]
List-I List-II
A. Bending moment is constant 1. Point of contraflexure
B. Bending moment is maximum or minimum 2. Shear force changes sign
C. Bending moment is zero 3. Slope of shear force diagram is
zero over the portion of the beam

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
D. Loading is constant 4. Shear force is zero over the
portion of the beam
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 1 2 3 (b) 3 2 1 4
(c) 4 2 1 3 (d) 3 1 2 4

Loading and B.M. diagram from S.F. Diagram

IES-34. The bending moment diagram shown in Fig. I correspond to the shear force diagram in[IES-
1999]

IES-35. Bending moment distribution in a built be am is shown in the given

The shear force distribution in the beam is represented by [IES-2001]

IES-36. The given figure shows the shear

force diagram for the beam ABCD.
Bending moment in the portion BC
of the beam

[IES-1996]
(a) Is a non-zero constant (b) Is zero
(c) Varies linearly from B to C (d) Varies parabolically from B to C

IES-37. Figure shown above represents the BM

diagram for a simply supported beam.
The beam is subjected to which one of the
following?
(a) A concentrated load at its mid-
length
(b) A uniformly distributed load over
its length
(c) A couple at its mid-length
(d) Couple at 1/4 of the span from each
end

[IES-2006]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
IES-38. If the bending moment diagram for a
simply supported beam is of the form
given below.
Then the load acting on the beam is:
(a) A concentrated force at C
(b) A uniformly distributed load over
the whole length of the beam
(c) Equal and opposite moments
applied at A and B
(d) A moment applied at C
[IES-1994]

IES-39. The figure given below shows a bending moment diagram for the beam CABD:

Load diagram for the above beam will be: [IES-1993]

IES-40. The shear force diagram shown in the following figure is that of a [IES-1994]
(a) Freely supported beam with symmetrical point load about mid-span.
(b) Freely supported beam with symmetrical uniformly distributed load about mid-span
(c) Simply supported beam with positive and negative point loads symmetrical about the mid-
span
(d) Simply supported beam with symmetrical varying load about mid-span

Statically Indeterminate beam

IES-41 Which one of the following is NOT a statically indeterminate structure?

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
P
T
C (b) A B
(a) B
A C

(c) Steel
(d) F
Y Aliminium

X T [IES-2010]
O

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Shear Force (S.F.) and Bending Moment (B.M.)

IAS-1. Assertion (A): A beam subjected only to end moments will be free from shearing force.[IAS-
2004]
Reason (R): The bending moment variation along the beam length is zero.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-2. Assertion (A): The change in bending moment between two cross-sections of a beam is equal to
the area of the shearing force diagram between the two sections. [IAS-1998]
Reason (R): The change in the shearing force between two cross-sections of beam due to
distributed loading is equal to the area of the load intensity diagram between the two sections.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-3. The ratio of the area under the bending moment diagram to the flexural rigidity between any
two points along a beam gives the change in [IAS-1998]
(a) Deflection (b) Slope (c) Shear force (d) Bending moment

Cantilever
IAS-4. A beam AB of length 2 L having a
concentrated load P at its mid-span is
hinge supported at its two ends A and B
on two identical cantilevers as shown in
the given figure. The correct value of
bending moment at A is
(a) Zero (b) PLl2
(c) PL (d) 2 PL
[IAS-1995]

IAS-5. A load perpendicular to the plane of the handle is applied at the free end as shown in the given
figure. The values of Shear Forces (S.F.), Bending Moment (B.M.) and torque at the fixed end of
the handle have been determined respectively as 400 N, 340 Nm and 100 by a student. Among
these values, those of [IAS-1999]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
(a) S.F., B.M. and torque are correct
(b) S.F. and B.M. are correct
(c) B.M. and torque are correct
(d) S.F. and torque are correct

Cantilever with Uniformly Distributed Load

IAS-6. If the SF diagram for a beam is a triangle with length of the beam as its base, the beam is:
[IAS-2007]
(a) A cantilever with a concentrated load at its free end
(b) A cantilever with udl over its whole span
(c) Simply supported with a concentrated load at its mid-point
(d) Simply supported with a udl over its whole span

IAS-7. A cantilever carrying a uniformly distributed load is shown in Fig. I.

Select the correct R.M. diagram of the cantilever. [IAS-1999]

IAS-8. A structural member ABCD is loaded as

shown in the given figure. The shearing
force at any section on the length BC of
the member is:
(a) Zero (b) P
(c) Pa/k (d) Pk/a

[IAS-1996]

Cantilever Carrying load Whose Intensity varies

IAS-9. The beam is loaded as shown in Fig. I. Select the correct B.M. diagram
[IAS-1999]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Simply Supported Beam Carrying Concentrated Load
IAS-10. Assertion (A): In a simply supported beam carrying a concentrated load at mid-span, both the
shear force and bending moment diagrams are triangular in nature without any change in sign.
[IAS-1999]
Reason (R): When the shear force at any section of a beam is either zero or changes sign, the
bending moment at that section is maximum.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-11. For the shear force to be uniform throughout the span of a simply supported beam, it should
carry which one of the following loadings? [IAS-2007]
(a) A concentrated load at mid-span
(b) Udl over the entire span
(c) A couple anywhere within its span
(d) Two concentrated loads equal in magnitude and placed at equal distance from each
support

IAS-12. Which one of the following figures represents the correct shear force diagram for the loaded
beam shown in the given figure I? [IAS-1998; IAS-1995]

Simply Supported Beam Carrying a Uniformly Distributed

Load
IAS-13. For a simply supported beam of length fl' subjected to downward load of uniform intensity w,
match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists:
[IAS-1997]
List-I List-II
5w 4
A. Slope of shear force diagram 1.
384 E I
B. Maximum shear force 2. w
w 4
C. Maximum deflection 3.
8

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
w
D. Magnitude of maximum bending moment 4.
2
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 3 1 2 4
(c) 3 2 1 4 (d) 2 4 1 3

Simply Supported Beam Carrying a Load whose Intensity

varies Uniformly from Zero at each End to w per Unit Run
at the MiD Span
IAS-14. A simply supported beam of length 'l' is subjected to a symmetrical uniformly varying load with
zero intensity at the ends and intensity w (load per unit length) at the mid span. What is the
maximum bending moment? [IAS-2004]
3wl 2 wl 2 wl 2 5 wl 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
8 12 24 12

Simply Supported Beam carrying a Load whose Intensity

varies
IAS-15. A simply supported beam of span l is subjected to a uniformly varying load having zero
intensity at the left support and w N/m at the right support. The reaction at the right support
is: [IAS-2003]
wl wl wl wl
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2 5 4 3

Simply Supported Beam with Equal Overhangs and

carrying a Uniformly Distributed Load
IAS-16. Consider the following statements for a simply supported beam subjected to a couple at its mid-
span: [IAS-2004]
1. Bending moment is zero at the ends and maximum at the centre
2. Bending moment is constant over the entire length of the beam
3. Shear force is constant over the entire length of the beam
4. Shear force is zero over the entire length of the beam
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 3 and 4 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 2 and 4

IAS-17. Match List-I (Beams) with List-II (Shear force diagrams) and select the correct answer using
the codes given below the Lists: [IAS-2001]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 2 5 3 (b) 1 4 5 3
(c) 1 4 3 5 (d) 4 2 3 5

The Points of Contraflexure

IAS-18. A point, along the length of a beam subjected to loads, where bending moment changes its sign,
is known as the point of [IAS-1996]
(a) Inflexion (b) Maximum stress (c) Zero shear force (d) Contra flexure

IAS-19. Assertion (A): In a loaded beam, if the shear force diagram is a straight line parallel to the beam
axis, then the bending moment is a straight line inclined to the beam axis. [IAS 1994]
Reason (R): When shear force at any section of a beam is zero or changes sign, the bending
moment at that section is maximum.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Loading and B.M. diagram from S.F. Diagram

IAS-20. The shear force diagram of a loaded
beam is shown in the following figure:
The maximum Bending Moment of the
beam is:
(a) 16 kN-m (b) 11 kN-m

(c) 28 kN-m (d) 8 kN-m

[IAS-1997]
IAS-21. The bending moment for a loaded beam is shown below: [IAS-2003]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

The loading on the beam is represented by which one of the followings diagrams?
(a) (b)

(c) (d)

IAS-22. Which one of the given bending moment diagrams correctly represents that of the loaded beam
shown in figure? [IAS-1997]

IAS-23. The shear force diagram is shown above

for a loaded beam. The corresponding
bending moment diagram is represented
by

[IAS-2003]

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

IAS-24. The bending moment diagram for a simply supported beam is a rectangle over a larger portion
of the span except near the supports. What type of load does the beam carry? [IAS-2007]
(a) A uniformly distributed symmetrical load over a larger portion of the span except near the
supports
(b) A concentrated load at mid-span
(c) Two identical concentrated loads equidistant from the supports and close to mid-point of
the beam
(d) Two identical concentrated loads equidistant from the mid-span and close to supports

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (c)
GATE-2. Ans. Zero
GATE-3. Ans. (a) As it is rigid roller, deflection must be same, because after deflection they also will be in
contact. But slope unequal.
GATE-4. Ans. (b)
GATE-5. Ans. (d)

GATE-6. Ans. (d)

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

wx 2 wx 3
Mx
2 6L

GATE-7. Ans. (d)

L 2L
P
Pab 3 3 2PL
Mc
l L 9

GATE-8. Ans. (c)

Taking moment about Ra
P l Pa Rbl 0
2
P a P a
or Rb P Ra P
2 l 2 l
Maximum bending moment will be at centre C
l l Pl
Mc Ra P a Rb or Mmax Pa
2 2 2

GATE-9. Ans. (C)

3000 N/m

R1 R2
R1 R 2 3000 2 6000N
R1 4 3000 2 1 0
R1 1500,
S.F. eqn . at any section x from end A.
R1 3000 x 2 0 for x 2m}
x 2.5 m.
GATE-10. Ans. (b)
Binding stress will be maximum at the outer surface
So taking 9 = 50 mm

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
ld 3
m 50
and I & 3
12 ld
12
x2
m x 1.5 103[2000 x]
2
m2500 3.375 10 N mm
6

3.375 106 50 12
67.5 MPa
30 1003
wl2 120 152
GATE-11. Ans. (a) Mmax kNm 3375kNm
8 8
bh3 0.12 0.75
3

GATE-12. Ans. (a) Moment of inertia (I) = 4.22 103 m4

12 12
5 wl4 5 120 103 154
max m 93.75mm
384 EI 384 200 109 4.22 103
wl2 1.5 62
GATE-13. Ans. (a) Mmax 6.75kNm But not in choice. Nearest choice (a)
8 8
32M 32 6.75 103
GATE-14. Ans. (a) Pa 162.98MPa
d3 0.075
2

GATE-15. Ans. (d) 1 WL

Total load L W
2 2

WL 1 W WL Wx 2
Sx x. X
4 2 L 4 L

2
WL
Smax at x 0
4

GATE-16. Ans. (b)

IES
IES-1. Ans. (a)
PL
IES-2. Ans. (b) Load P at end produces moment in
2
anticlockwise direction. Load P at end
produces moment of PL in clockwise
direction. Net moment at AA is PL/2.

IES-3. Ans. (d) Dimensional analysis gives choice (d)

M bh3
IES-4. Ans. (a) const. and I
I 12
IES-5. Ans. (b)
IES-5a Ans. (c) A vertical increase in BM diagram entails there is a point moment similarly a vertical
increase in SF diagram entails there is a point shear force.
IES-6. Ans. (a)
IES-7. Ans. (b)
IES-8. Ans. (c)
IES-9. Ans. (c)

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Shear force at mid point of cantilever

l
6
2
3
6
2
62
4 kN / m
3
IES-10. Ans. (b)
IES-11. Ans. (b) Uniformly distributed load on cantilever beam.

IES-12. Ans. (d)

IES-13. Ans. (b)
IES-14. Ans. (a)

4
M = 37.5 KNm = 50 106 Nmm
3
IES-15. Ans. (a)
IES-16. Ans. (d)
IES-17. Ans. (c)
IES-18. Ans. (c)
IES-19. Ans. (b)
IES-20. Ans. (a)
IES-21. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

IES-22. Ans. (a)

IES-23. Ans. (d) Pure bending takes place in the section between two weights W
IES-24. Ans. (d)
IES-25. Ans. (b)
IES-26. Ans. (d)
IES-27. Ans. (d) If F be the shearing force at section x (at point A), then taking moments about B, F x 2L =
Pc
Pc Pc
or F Thus shearing force in zone x
2L 2L
IES-28. Ans. (b)

WL
B.MMax M
4
Where the Load is U.D.L.
Maximum Bending Moment

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
W L
2

L 8
WL 1 WL M

8 2 4 2
IES-29. Ans. (d) 1 WL
Total load L W
2 2

WL 1 W WL Wx 2
Sx x. X
4 2 L 4 L

2
WL
Smax at x 0
4

IES-30. Ans. (d)

IES-31. Ans. (d)
IES-32. Ans. (b)
IES-33. Ans. (b)
IES-34. Ans. (b) If shear force is zero, B.M. will also be zero. If shear force varies linearly with length, B.M.
diagram will be curved line.
IES-35. Ans. (a)
IES-36. Ans. (a)
IES-37. Ans. (c)
IES-38. Ans. (d) A vertical line in centre of B.M. diagram is possible when a moment is applied there.
IES-39. Ans. (a) Load diagram at (a) is correct because B.M. diagram between A and B is parabola which is
possible with uniformly distributed load in this region.
IES-40. Ans. (b) The shear force diagram is possible on simply supported beam with symmetrical varying
load about mid span.
IES-41 Ans. (c)

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (a)
IAS-2. Ans. (b)
IAS-3. Ans. (b)
IAS-4. Ans. (a) Because of hinge support between beam AB and cantilevers, the bending moment can't be
transmitted to cantilever. Thus bending moment at points A and B is zero.
IAS-5. Ans. (d)
S.F 400N and BM 400 0.4 0.2 240Nm
Torque 400 0.25 100Nm
IAS-6. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

x wx2
IAS-7. Ans. (c) Mx wx
2 2

IAS-8. Ans. (a)

IAS-9. Ans. (d)
IAS-10. Ans. (d) A is false.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
IAS-11. Ans. (d) It is a case of pure bending.

IAS-12. Ans. (a)

IAS-13. Ans. (d)

IAS-14. Ans. (b)

IAS-15. Ans. (d)
IAS-16. Ans. (c)

IAS-17. Ans. (d)

IAS-18. Ans. (d)
IAS-19. Ans. (b)
IAS-20. Ans. (a)

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

IAS-21. Ans. (d)

IAS-22. Ans. (c) Bending moment does not depends on moment of inertia.
IAS-23. Ans. (a)
IAS-24. Ans. (d)

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-2005
Question: A simply supported beam of length 10 m carries a uniformly varying load whose intensity
varies from a maximum value of 5 kN/m at both ends to zero at the centre of the beam. It is
desired to replace the beam with another simply supported beam which will be subjected to
the same maximum 'bending moment and shear force' as in the case of the previous one.
Determine the length and rate of loading for the second beam if it is subjected to a uniformly
distributed load over its whole length. Draw the variation of 'SF' and 'BM' in both the cases.
Answer:
X
5KN/m 5KN/m

B
X

RA 10m RB

10
Total load on beam =5 = 25 kN
2
25
\ RA = RB = = 12.5 kN
2
Take a section X-X from B at a distance x.
For 0 x 5 m we get rate of loading
w = a + bx [as lineary varying]
at x=0, w=5 kN / m
and at x = 5, w = 0
These two bounday condition gives a = 5 and b = -1
\ w = 5- x

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
dV
We know that shear force(V), =
dx
x2
or V = dx = (5 x )dx = 5 x + + c1
2
at x = 0, F =12.5 kN (RB ) so c1 = 12.5
x2
V = -5x + + 12.5
2
It is clear that maximum S.F = 12.5 kN
dM
For a beam =V
dx
x2 5x 2 x 3
or , M = Vdx = (5 x + + 12.5)dx = - + + 12.5 x + C2
2 2 6
at x = 0, M = 0 gives C2 = 0
M = 12.5x - 2.5x 2 + x 3 / 6
dM
for Maximum bending moment at =0
dx
x2
or-5x+ + 12.5 = 0
2
or , x 2 10 x + 25 = 0
or , x = 5 means at centre.
So, Mmax = 12.5 2.5 2.5 52 + 53 / 6 = 20.83 kNm
X
KNm
A B

RA L RB

Now we consider a simply supported beam carrying uniform distributed load

over whole length ( KN/m).
WL
Here R A = RB =
2
S.F .at section X-X
WA
Vx = + x
2
Vmax = 12.5 kN

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
B.M at section X-X
WA Wx 2
Mx = + x
2 2
dM x WL L
2 2
WL
= = = 20.83 (ii )
dx 2 2 2 8
Solving (i ) & (ii ) we get L=6.666m and =3.75kN/m
X
5KN/m 5KN/m
3.75kN/m

B
-12.5KN/m 12.5KN/m
X
10m 6.666m
RA RB 12.5kN 12.5kN

S.F.D S.F.D
Parabola

20.83KNm
Cubic parabola
B.M.D 20.83kNm
Conventional Question IES-1996
Question: A Uniform beam of length L is carrying a uniformly distributed load w per unit
length and is simply supported at its ends. What would be the maximum bending
moment and where does it occur?
Answer: By symmetry each support
WA
reaction is equal i.e. RA=RB=
2
B.M at the section x-x is
WA Wx 2
Mx=+ x
2 2
For the B.M to be maximum we
dM x
have to = 0 that gives.
dx
WA Bending Moment Diagram
x = 0
+ 2
or x= A i.e. at mid point.
2

A
2
A A wA 2
And Mmax= = +
2 2 2 2 8

Conventional Question AMIE-1996

Question: Calculate the reactions at A and D for the beam shown in figure. Draw the bending
moment and shear force diagrams showing all important values.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Answer: Equivalent figure below shows an overhanging beam ABCDF supported by a roller support at
A and a hinged support at D. In the figure, a load of 4 kN is applied through a bracket 0.5 m
away from the point C. Now apply equal and opposite load of 4 kN at C. This will be
equivalent to a anticlockwise couple of the value of (4 x 0.5) = 2 kNm acting at C together with
a vertical downward load of 4 kN at C. Show U.D.L. (1 kN/m) over the port AB, a point load of
2 kN vertically downward at F, and a horizontal load of 2 3 kN as shown.

For reaction and A and D.

Let ue assume RA= reaction at roller A.
RDV vertically component of the reaction at the hinged support D, and
RDH horizontal component of the reaction at the hinged support D.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Obviously RDH= 2 3 kN ( )
In order to determine RA, takings moments about D, we get

2
R A 6 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 4 2
2
or R A 3kN
Also R A RDV 1 2 4 2 8

or RDV 5kNvetrically upward

R R
2 2
2
Re action at D, RD DV DH 52 2 3 6.08kN
5
Inclination with horizontal tan1 55.30
2 3
S.F.Calculation :
VF 2kN
VD 2 5 3kN
VC 3 4 1kN
VB 1kN
VA 1 1 2 3kN

B.M.Calculation :
MF 0
MD 2 1 2kNm
MC 2 1 2 5 2 2 6kNm

The bending moment increases from 4kNm in i,e., 2 1 2 5 2

to 6kNm as shown
MB 2 1 2 2 5 2 4 2 2 4kNm
2 1
MP 2 1 2 2 5 2 2 1 4 2 1 2 1 1
2 2
2.5kNm
MA 0
Conventional Question GATE-1997
Question: Construct the bending moment and shearing force diagrams for the beam shown in the figure.

Answer:

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Calculation: First find out reaction at B and E.

Taking moments, about B, we get
0.5
RE 4.5 20 0.5 100 50 3 40 5
2
or RE 55kN
Also, RB RE 20 0.5 50 40
or RB 45kN RE 55kN
S.F. Calculation : VF 40kN
VE 40 55 15kN
VD 15 50 35kN
VB 35 45 10kN
B.M.Calculation : MG 0
MF 0
ME 40 0.5 20kNm
MD 40 2 55 1.5 2.5kNm
MC 40 4 55 3.5 50 2 67.5kNm
The bending moment increases from 62.5kNm to 100.
0.5
MB 20 0.5 2.5kNm
2

Conventional Question GATE-1996

Question: Two bars AB and BC are connected by a frictionless hinge at B. The assembly is supported
and loaded as shown in figure below. Draw the shear force and bending moment diagrams for
the combined beam AC. clearly labelling the important values. Also indicate your sign
convention.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals

Answer: There shall be a vertical reaction at hinge B and we can split the problem in two parts. Then
the FBD of each part is shown below

Calculation: Referring the FBD, we get,

Fy 0, and R1 R2 200kN
From M B 0,100 2 100 3 R2 4 0
500
or R2 125kN
4
R1 200 125 75kN
Again, R3 R1 75kN
and M 75 1.5 112.5kNm.

Conventional Question IES-1998

Question: A tube 40 mm outside diameter; 5 mm thick and 1.5 m long simply supported at 125 mm from
each end carries a concentrated load of 1 kN at each extreme end.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
(i) Neglecting the weight of the tube, sketch the shearing force and bending moment
diagrams;
(ii) Calculate the radius of curvature and deflection at mid-span. Take the modulus of
elasticity of the material as 208 GN/m2
Answer: (i) Given, d0 40mm 0.04m; di d0 2t 40 2 5 30mm 0.03m;
W 1kN; E 208GN / m2 208 102 N / m2; l 1.5; a 125mm 0.125m

Calculation:
(ii) Radius of coordinate R
As per bending equation:
M E

I y R
EI
or R i
M
Here,M W a 1 103 0.125 125Nm

I
64
d 4
0 d14

0.04 0.03 8.59 108 m4
4 4

64
Substituting the values in equation i , we get
208 108 8.59 108
R 142.9m
125
Deflection at mid span :
d2 y
EI Mx Wx W x a Wx Wx Wa Wa
dx 2

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
Integrating, we get
dy
EI Wax C1
dx
1 dy
When, x , 0
2 dx
1 Wal
0 Wa C1 or C1
2 2
dy Wal
EI Wax
dx 2
Integrating again, we get
x 2 Wal
EIy Wa x C2
2 2
When x a, y 0
Wa3 Wa2l
0 C2
2 2
Wa3 Wa2l
or C2
2 2
Wax 2
Walx Wa3 Wa2l
EIy
2 2 2 2
Wa x 2 lx a2 al
or y
EI 2 2 2 2
At mid span,i,e., x l / 2
Wa l / 2 l l / 2 a2 al
2

y
EI 2 2 2 2

Wa l 2
a 2
al

EI 8 2 2
1 1000 0.125 1.52 0.1252 0.125 1.5
9 8

208 10 8.59 10 8 2 2
0.001366m 1.366mm
It will be in upward direction

Conventional Question IES-2001

Question: What is meant by point of contraflexure or point of inflexion in a beam? Show the same for the
beam given below:

17.5kN/m 20kN
A C B D

4M 4M
2m
Answer: In a beam if the bending moment changes sign at a point, the point itself having zero bending
moment, the beam changes curvature at this point of zero bending moment and this point is
called the point of contra flexure.

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Chapter-4 Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagram S K Mondals
17.5kN/m 20kN
A C B D

4M 4M 2M

BMD
From the bending moment diagram we have seen that it is between A & C.
[If marks are more we should calculate exact point.]

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 5. Deflection of Beam

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

5.1 Introduction
x We know that the axis of a beam deflects from its initial position under action of applied
forces.
x In this chapter we will learn how to determine the elastic deflections of a beam.
Selection of co-ordinate axes
We will not introduce any other co-ordinate system.
We use general co-ordinate axis as shown in the
figure. This system will be followed in deflection of
beam and in shear force and bending moment
diagram. Here downward direction will be negative
i.e. negative Y-axis. Therefore downward deflection of
the beam will be treated as negative. We use above Co-ordinate system
To determine the value of deflection of beam
subjected to a given loading where we will use the

d 2y
formula, EI Mx .
dx 2

Some books fix a co-ordinate axis as shown in the

following figure. Here downward direction will be
positive i.e. positive Y-axis. Therefore downward
deflection of the beam will be treated as positive. As
beam is generally deflected in downward directions
and this co-ordinate system treats downward
deflection is positive deflection. Some books use above co-ordinate system
To determine the value of deflection of beam
subjected to a given loading where we will use the

d 2y
formula, EI M x .
dx 2

Why to calculate the deflections?

x To prevent cracking of attached brittle materials

x To make sure the structure not deflect severely and to appear safe for its occupants

x To help analyzing statically indeterminate structures

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
x Information on deformation characteristics of members is essential in the study of vibrations
of machines

Several methods to compute deflections in beam

x Double integration method (without the use of singularity functions)
x Macaulays Method (with the use of singularity functions)
x Moment area method
x Method of superposition
x Conjugate beam method
x Castiglianos theorem
x Work/Energy methods

Each of these methods has particular advantages or disadvantages.

Methods to find
deflection

Double integration Geometrical Energy Method

Moment area Conjugate

method beam method

Castiglians Virtual
theorem Work

Assumptions in Simple Bending Theory

x Beams are initially straight
x The material is homogenous and isotropic i.e. it has a uniform composition and its
mechanical properties are the same in all directions
x The stress-strain relationship is linear and elastic
x Youngs Modulus is the same in tension as in compression
x Sections are symmetrical about the plane of bending
x Sections which are plane before bending remain plane after bending

Non-Uniform Bending
x In the case of non-uniform bending of a beam, where bending moment varies from section to
section, there will be shear force at each cross section which will induce shearing stresses
x Also these shearing stresses cause warping (or out-of plane distortion) of the cross section so
that plane cross sections do not remain plane even after bending

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
5.2 Elastic line or Elastic curve
We have to remember that the differential equation of the elastic line is

2
d y
EI 2 =M x
dx
Proof: Consider the following simply supported beam with UDL over its length.

From elementary calculus we know that curvature of a line (at point Q in figure)

d2 y
1 dx 2
3/2
where R radius of curvature
R dy 2
1 
dx
dy
For small deflection, |0
dx
1 d2 y
or |
R dx 2

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Bending stress of the beam (at point Q)
 Mx  .y
Vx
EI
From strain relation we get
1 H Vx
 x and H x
R y E
1 Mx
?
R EI
d2 y Mx
Therefore
dx 2 EI
d2 y
or EI Mx
dx 2

5.3 General expression

d2y
From the equation EI M x we may easily find out the following relations.
dx 2
d4y
x EI Z Shear force density (Load)
dx 4
d3y
x EI Vx Shear force
dx3
d2y
x EI M x Bending moment
dx 2
dy
x = = slope
dx
x y = G = Deflection, Displacement
x Flexural rigidity = EI

5.4 Double integration method (without the use of singularity functions)

x Vx = Z dx

x
Mx = Vx dx

d2y
x EI Mx
dx 2
1
T
EI
x Slope M x dx

x G Deflection T dx
4-step procedure to solve deflection of beam problems by double integration method

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Step 1: Write down boundary conditions (Slope boundary conditions and displacement boundary
conditions), analyze the problem to be solved

d2y
Step 2: Write governing equations for, EI Mx
dx 2
Step 3: Solve governing equations by integration, results in expression with unknown integration
constants
Step 4: Apply boundary conditions (determine integration constants)

Following table gives boundary conditions for different types of support.

Types of support and Boundary Conditions Figure

Clamped or Built in support or Fixed end :

( Point A)
Deflection,  y  0
Slope, T  0

Moment ,  M  z 0 i.e.A finite value

Free end: (Point B)

Deflection,  y  z 0 i.e.A finite value

Slope, T  z 0 i.e.A finite value
Moment ,  M  0

Roller (Point B) or Pinned Support (Point A) or

Hinged or Simply supported.

Deflection,  y  0
Slope, T  z 0 i.e.A finite value
Moment ,  M  0

End restrained against rotation but free to

deflection
Deflection,  y  z 0 i.e.A finite value
Slope, T  0
Shear force, V  0

Flexible support
Deflection,  y  z 0 i.e.A finite value
Slope, T  z 0 i .e. A finite value

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
dy
Moment ,  M  kr
dx
Shear force, V  k. y

Using double integration method we will find the

deflection and slope of the following loaded
beams one by one.
(i) A Cantilever beam with point load at the free end.
(ii) A Cantilever beam with UDL (uniformly distributed load)
(iii) A Cantilever beam with an applied moment at free end.
(iv) A simply supported beam with a point load at its midpoint.
(v) A simply supported beam with a point load NOT at its midpoint.
(vi) A simply supported beam with UDL (Uniformly distributed load)
(vii) A simply supported beam with triangular distributed load (GVL) gradually varied load.
(viii) A simply supported beam with a moment at mid span.
(ix) A simply supported beam with a continuously distributed load the intensity of which at

Sx
any point x along the beam is wx w sin
L

(i) A Cantilever beam with point load at the free end.

We will solve this problem by double integration method. For that at first we have to calculate (Mx).
Consider any section XX at a distance x from free end which is left end as shown in figure.

? Mx = - P.x
We know that differential equation of elastic line

d2 y
EI Mx P.x
dx 2
Integrating both side we get

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
2
dy
EIdx 2
 P x dx

dy x2
or EI  P.  A .............(i)
dx 2
Again integrating both side we get
x2
EI dy = P 2  A dx
Px 3
or EIy = -  Ax +B ..............(ii)
6
Where A and B is integration constants.
Now apply boundary condition at fixed end which is at a distance x = L from free end and we also
know that at fixed end
at x = L, y=0
dy
at x = L, 0
dx
PL3
from equation (ii) EIL = - + AL +B ..........(iii)
6
PL2
from equation (i) EI.(0) = - +A ..(iv)
2
PL2 PL3
Solving (iii) & (iv) we get A = and B = -
2 3
Px 3 PL2 x PL3
Therefore, y=-  
6EI 2EI 3EI
The slope as well as the deflection would be maximum at free end hence putting x = 0 we get

PL3
ymax = - (Negative sign indicates the deflection is downward)
3EI
PL2
(Slope)max = T max =
2EI
Remember for a cantilever beam with a point load at free end.

3
PL
Downward deflection at free end, G 
3EI
PL2
And slope at free end, T 
2EI

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
(ii) A Cantilever beam with UDL (uniformly distributed load)

We will now solve this problem by double integration method, for that at first we have to calculate
(Mx).
Consider any section XX at a distance x from free end which is left end as shown in figure.
x wx 2
? Mx   w.x  . 
2 2
We know that differential equation of elastic line
d2 y wx 2
EI 
dx 2 2
Integrating both sides we get

d2 y wx 2
EI
dx 2

2
dx

dy wx 3
or EI   A ......(i)
dx 6
Again integrating both side we get
wx 3
EI dy  6  A dx
wx 4
or EIy = -  Ax  B.......(ii)
24
> where A and B are integration constants@
Now apply boundary condition at fixed end which is at a distance x = L from free end and we also
know that at fixed end.
at x = L, y=0
dy
at x = L, =0
dx
-wL3 +wL3
from equation (i) we get EI u (0) = + A or A =
6 6
wL4
from equation (ii) we get EI.y = - + A.L + B
24
wL4
or B=-
8
The slope as well as the deflection would be maximum at the free end hence putting x = 0, we get

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
4
wL
y max 
8EI
>Negative sign indicates the deflection is downward@
wL3
 slope max Tmax
6EI
Remember: For a cantilever beam with UDL over its whole length,

4
wL
Maximum deflection at free end G 
8EI
wL3
Maximum slope, T 
6EI

(iii) A Cantilever beam of length L with an applied moment M at free end.

Consider a section XX at a distance x from free end, the bending moment at section XX is
(Mx) = -M
We know that differential equation of elastic line

d2 y
or EI M
dx 2
Integrating both side we get
d2 y
or EI  M dx
dx 2
dy
or EI Mx + A ...(i)
dx

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Again integrating both side we get
EI dy = M x +A  dx
Mx 2
or EI y   Ax + B ...(ii)
2
Where A and B are integration constants.
applying boundary conditions in equation (i) &(ii)
dy
at x = L, 0 gives A = ML
dx
ML2 ML2
at x = L, y = 0 gives B =  ML2 
2 2
2
Mx MLx ML2
Therefore deflection equation is y = -  
2EI EI 2EI
Which is the equation of elastic curve.

2
ML
? Maximum deflection at free end G  = (It is downward)

2EI
ML
? Maximum slope at free end T 
EI
Let us take a funny example: A cantilever beam AB of length L and uniform flexural rigidity EI
has a bracket BA (attached to its free end. A vertical downward force P is applied to free end C of the
bracket. Find the ratio a/L required in order that the deflection of point A is zero.
[ISRO 2008]

We may consider this force P and a moment (P.a) act on free end A of the cantilever beam.

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
3
PL
Due to point load P at free end A downward deflection G 
3EI
ML2 (P.a)L2
Due to moment M = P.a at free end A upward deflection G 
2EI 2EI
For zero deflection of free end A
PL3 (P.a)L2
=
3EI 2EI
a 2
or
L 3

(iv) A simply supported beam with a point load P at its midpoint.

A simply supported beam AB carries a concentrated load P at its midpoint as shown in the figure.

We want to locate the point of maximum deflection on the elastic curve and find its value.
In the region 0 < x < L/2
Bending moment at any point x (According to the shown co-ordinate system)

P
Mx = .x
2
and In the region L/2 < x < L
P
Mx =  x  L / 2
2
We know that differential equation of elastic line

d2 y P
EI .x In the region 0 < x < L/2 
dx 2 2
Integrating both side we get

d2 y P
or EI dx 2 2 x dx
dy P x2
or EI .  A (i)
dx 2 2
Again integrating both side we get

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
P
EI dy = x 2  A dx
4
3
Px
or EI y =  Ax + B (ii)
12
> Where A and B are integrating constants@
Now applying boundary conditions to equation (i) and (ii) we get
at x = 0, y=0
dy
at x = L/2, 0
dx
PL2
A=- and B = 0
16
Px 3 PL12
? Equation of elastic line, y = - x
12 16

3
PL
Maximum deflection at mid span (x = L/2) G  =
48EI
PL2
and maximum slope at each end T 
16EI

(v) A simply supported beam with a point load P NOT at its midpoint.
A simply supported beam AB carries a concentrated load P as shown in the figure.

We have to locate the point of maximum deflection on the elastic curve and find the value of this
deflection.
Taking co-ordinate axes x and y as shown below

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

For the bending moment we have

P.a
In the region 0 d x d a, Mx L .x

P.a
And, In the region a d x d L, Mx  L - x 
L
So we obtain two differential equation for the elastic curve.
d2 y P.a
EI .x for 0 d x d a
dx 2 L
d2 y P.a
and EI 2  . L - x  for a d x d L
dx L
Successive integration of these equations gives

dy P.a x 2
EI . + A1 ......(i) for o d x d a
dx L 2
dy P.a 2
EI P.a x - x  A2 ......(ii) for a d x d L
dx L
P.a x 3
EI y . +A1x+B1 ......(iii) for 0 d x d a
L 6
x 2 P.a x 3
EI y P.a  .  A 2 x + B2 .....(iv) for a d x d L
2 L 6
Where A1, A2, B1, B2 are constants of Integration.
Now we have to use Boundary conditions for finding constants:
BCS (a) at x = 0, y = 0
(b) at x = L, y = 0

dy
(c) at x = a, = Same for equation (i) & (ii)
dx
(d) at x = a, y = same from equation (iii) & (iv)
Pb 2 P.a
We get A1
6L

L  b2 ;  A2
6L

2L2  a2 
and B1 0; B2 Pa3 / 6EI
Therefore we get two equations of elastic curve

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Pbx 2
EI y = -
6L

L  b2  x 2  ..... (v) for 0 d x d a

Pb L
EI y =
6L b
3
 
 x - a   L2  b2 x - x3 . ...(vi) for a d x d L

For a > b, the maximum deflection will occur in the left portion of the span, to which equation (v)
applies. Setting the derivative of this expression equal to zero gives

a(a+2b) (L-b)(L+b) L2  b2
x=
3 3 3
at that point a horizontal tangent and hence the point of maximum deflection substituting this value
P.b(L2  b2 )3/2
of x into equation (v), we find, y max
9 3. EIL
Case I: if a = b = L/2 then
2
L2  L/2 
Maximum deflection will be at x = L/2
3
i.e. at mid point
3/2

and y max G 
^
P. L/2  u L2  L/2 
2
` PL3
9 3 EIL 48EI

(vi) A simply supported beam with UDL (Uniformly distributed load)

A simply supported beam AB carries a uniformly distributed load (UDL) of intensity w/unit length
over its whole span L as shown in figure. We want to develop the equation of the elastic curve and
find the maximum deflection G at the middle of the span.

Taking co-ordinate axes x and y as shown, we have for the bending moment at any point x

wL x2
Mx .x - w.
2 2
Then the differential equation of deflection becomes

d2 y wL x2
EI Mx .x - w.
dx 2 2 2
Integrating both sides we get

dy wL x 2 w x 3
EI .  . A .....(i)
dx 2 2 2 3

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Again Integrating both side we get

wL x 3 w x 4
EI y .  .  Ax + B .....(ii)
2 6 2 12
Where A and B are integration constants. To evaluate these constants we have to use boundary
conditions.
at x = 0, y = 0 gives B=0
dy wL3
at x = L/2, 0 gives A 
dx 24
Therefore the equation of the elastic curve

wL 3 w wL3 wx
y .x  .x 4  .x = L3  2L.x 2  x 3
12EI 24EI 12EI 24EI
The maximum deflection at the mid-span, we have to put x = L/2 in the equation and obtain

4
5wL
Maximum deflection at mid-span, G  (It is downward)

384EI
And Maximum slope T A TB at the left end A and at the right end b is same putting x = 0 or x = L

wL3
Therefore we get Maximum slope T 
24EI
(vii) A simply supported beam with triangular distributed load (GVL)
gradually varied load.
A simply supported beam carries a triangular distributed load (GVL) as shown in figure below. We

have to find equation of elastic curve and find maximum deflection G  .

In this (GVL) condition, we get

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
4
dy w
EI load  .x .....(i)
dx 4 L
Separating variables and integrating we get

d3 y wx 2
EI  Vx   +A .....(ii)
dx 3 2L
Again integrating thrice we get

d2 y wx 3
EI Mx  + Ax +B .....(iii)
dx 2 6L
dy wx 4 Ax 2
EI  + +Bx + C .....(iv)
dx 24L 2
wx 5 Ax 3 Bx 2
EI y  + + + Cx +D .....(v)
120L 6 2
Where A, B, C and D are integration constant.
Boundary conditions at x = 0, Mx = 0, y=0
at x = L, Mx = 0, y = 0 gives
wL 7wL3
A= , B = 0, C = - , D=0
6 360
wx
Therefore y = -
360EIL
^
7L4  10L2 x 2  3x 4 ` (negative sign indicates downward deflection)

dy
To find maximum deflection G , we have =0
dx
wL4
And it gives x = 0.519 L and maximum deflection G  = 0.00652
EI

(viii) A simply supported beam with a moment at mid-span

A simply supported beam AB is acted upon by a couple M applied at an intermediate point distance
a from the equation of elastic curve and deflection at point where the moment acted.

M M
Considering equilibrium we get R A and RB 
L L
Taking co-ordinate axes x and y as shown, we have for bending moment
M
In the region 0 d x d a, Mx .x
L
M
In the region a d x d L, Mx x-M
L
So we obtain the difference equation for the elastic curve

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
2
dy M
EI .x for 0 d x d a
dx 2 L
d2 y M
and EI 2 .x  M for a d x d L
dx L
Successive integration of these equation gives

M x2
dy
EI .  A1 ....(i) for 0 d x d a
dxL 2
M x2
dy
EI - Mx+ A 2 .....(ii) for a d x d L
dxL 2
M x3
and EI y = .  A1x + B1 ......(iii) for 0 d x d a
L V
M x 3 Mx 2
EI y =   A 2 x + B2 ......(iv) for a d x d L
L V 2
Where A1, A2, B1 and B2 are integration constants.
To finding these constants boundary conditions
(a) at x = 0, y = 0
(b) at x = L, y = 0

dy
(c) at x = a, = same form equation (i) & (ii)
dx
(d) at x = a, y = same form equation (iii) & (iv)

ML Ma2 ML Ma2
A1 M.a + + , A2 
3 2L 3 2L
Ma2
B1 0, B2
2
With this value we get the equation of elastic curve
Mx
6L
y=- ^
6aL - 3a2  x 2  2L2 ` for 0 d x d a

? deflection of x = a,
Ma
y=
3EIL
^
3aL - 2a2  L2 `

(ix) A simply supported beam with a continuously distributed load the

Sx
intensity of which at any point x along the beam is wx w sin
L

At first we have to find out the bending moment at any point x according to the shown co-ordinate
system.
We know that

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
d  Vx  Sx
 w sin
dx L
Integrating both sides we get

Sx
dV  x  w sin dx +A
L
wL Sx
or Vx  .cos A
S L
and we also know that
d Mx  wL Sx
dx
Vx
S
cos A
L
Again integrating both sides we get

wL Sx
d M  x
S
cos
L
 A dx

wL2 Sx
or Mx
S 2
sin  Ax +B
L
Where A and B are integration constants, to find out the values of A and B. We have to use boundary
conditions
at x = 0, Mx = 0
and at x = L, Mx = 0

wL2 Sx
From these we get A = B = 0. Therefore Mx 2
sin
S L
So the differential equation of elastic curve

d2 y wL2 Sx
EI Mx sin
dx 2 S 2
L
Successive integration gives

dy wL3 Sx
EI  cos
3 C .......(i)
dx S L
wL4 Sx
EI y  4 sin  Cx  D .....(ii)
S L
Where C and D are integration constants, to find out C and D we have to use boundary conditions
at x = 0, y=0
at x = L, y=0
and that give C = D = 0

dy wL3 Sx
Therefore slope equation EI  3 cos
dx S L
wL4 Sx
and Equation of elastic curve y  4 sin
S EI L
(-ive sign indicates deflection is downward)

Sx
Deflection will be maximum if sin is maximum
L

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Sx
sin =1 or x = L/2
L
WL4
and Maximum downward deflection G  = (downward).
S 4EI

5.5 Macaulay's Method (Use of singularity function)

x When the beam is subjected to point loads (but several loads) this is very convenient method
for determining the deflection of the beam.

x In this method we will write single moment equation in such a way that it becomes
continuous for entire length of the beam in spite of the discontinuity of loading.

x After integrating this equation we will find the integration constants which are valid for
entire length of the beam. This method is known as method of singularity constant.

Procedure to solve the problem by Macaulays method

Step I: Calculate all reactions and moments
Step II: Write down the moment equation which is valid for all values of x. This must contain
brackets.
Step III: Integrate the moment equation by a typical manner. Integration of (x-a) will be
2 3
 x-a  x2  x-a  so on.
not  ax and integration of (x-a)2 will be
2 2 3

Step IV: After first integration write the first integration constant (A) after first terms and after
second time integration write the second integration constant (B) after A.x . Constant A and B are
valid for all values of x.
Step V: Using Boundary condition find A and B at a point x = p if any term in Macaulays method,
(x-a) is negative (-ive) the term will be neglected.

(i) Let us take an example: A simply supported beam AB length 6m with a point load of 30 kN is
applied at a distance 4m from left end A. Determine the equations of the elastic curve between each
change of load point and the maximum deflection of the beam.

Answer: We solve this problem using Macaulays method, for that first writes the general
momentum equation for the last portion of beam BC of the loaded beam.

d2 y
EI Mx 10x -30  x - 4  N.m ....(i)
dx 2
By successive integration of this equation (using Macaulays integration rule

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
2
 x  a
e.g  x  a  dx 2
)
We get
dy 2
EI 5x 2  A -15  x-4  N.m2 .....  ii 
dx
5 3
and EI y = x  Ax + B - 5 (x - 4)3 N.m3 .....  iii
3
Where A and B are two integration constants. To evaluate its value we have to use following
boundary conditions.
at x = 0, y=0
and at x = 6m, y = 0
Note: When we put x = 0, x - 4 is negativre (ive) and this term will not be considered for x = 0 , so
5 3
our equation will be EI y = x  Ax +B, and at x = 0 , y = 0 gives B = 0
3
But when we put x = 6, x-4 is positive (+ive) and this term will be considered for x = 6, y = 0 so our
5 3
equation will be EI y = x + Ax + 0 5 (x 4)3
3
This gives
5 3
EI .(0) = .6  A.6  0  5(6  4)3
3
or A = - 53
So our slope and deflection equation will be
dy 2
EI 5x 2 - 53 - 15  x - 4 
dx
5 3 3
and EI y x - 53x + 0 - 5  x - 4 
3
Now we have two equations for entire section of the beam and we have to understand how we use
these equations. Here if x < 4 then x 4 is negative so this term will be deleted. That so why in the
region o d x d 4m we will neglect (x 4) term and our slope and deflection equation will be

dy
EI 5x 2 -53
dx
5 3
and EI y
x - 53x
3
But in the region 4m  x d 6m , (x 4) is positive so we include this term and our slope and

deflection equation will be

dy 2
EI 5x 2 - 53 - 15  x - 4 
dx
5 3 3
EI y x - 53x - 5  x - 4 
3
Now we have to find out maximum deflection, but we dont know at what value of x it will be
maximum. For this assuming the value of x will be in the region 0 d x d 4m .

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
dy
Deflection (y) will be maximum for that = 0 or 5x 2 - 53 = 0 or x = 3.25 m as our calculated x is
dx
in the region 0 d x d 4m ; at x = 3.25 m deflection will be maximum

5
or EI ymax = u 3.253 53 u 3.25
3
115
or ymax = - (-ive sign indicates downward deflection)
EI
But if you have any doubt that Maximum deflection may be in the range of 4  x d 6m , use EIy =

5x2 53x 5 (x 4)3 and find out x. The value of x will be absurd that indicates the maximum
deflection will not occur in the region 4  x d 6m .

dy
Deflection (y) will be maximum for that =0
dx
2
or 5x 2 - 53 - 15  x - 4  = 0

or 10x2 -120x + 293 = 0

or x = 3.41 m or 8.6 m
Both the value fall outside the region 4  x d 6m and in this region 4  x d 6m and in this region

maximum deflection will not occur.

(ii) Now take an example where Point load, UDL and Moment applied simultaneously in
a beam:
Let us consider a simply supported beam AB (see Figure) of length 3m is subjected to a point load 10
kN, UDL = 5 kN/m and a bending moment M = 25 kNm. Find the deflection of the beam at point D if
flexural rigidity (EI) = 50 KNm2.

Answer: Considering equilibrium

M A 0 gives
-10 u 1 - 25 -  5 u 1 u 1  1  1/ 2   RB u 3 0
or RB 15.83kN
R A  RB 10  5 u 1 gives R A 0.83 kN
We solve this problem using Macaulays method, for that first writing the general momentum
equation for the last portion of beam, DB of the loaded beam.
2
d2 y 0 5  x-2 
EI Mx 0.83x -10  x-1 25  x-2  
dx 2 2

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
By successive integration of this equation (using Macaulays integration rule
2
 x  a
e.g  x  a  dx 2
)
We get
dy 0.83 2 2 5 3
EI  .x  A -5  x  1 25  x  2    x  2 
dx 2 6
0.83 3 5 3 25 2 5 4
and EIy =  x  Ax +B -  x  1   x  2   x  2
6 3 2 24
Where A and B are integration constant we have to use following boundary conditions to find out A
& B.
at x = 0, y=0
at x = 3m, y = 0
Therefore B = 0
0.83 5 5
and 0 = - u 33  A u 3 + 0 - u 23 12.5 u 12  u 14
6 3 24
or A = 1.93
3 2 4
EIy = - 0.138x3  1.93x -1.67  x  1 12.5  x  2   0.21 x  2 
Deflextion at point D at x = 2m
EIyD 0.138 u 23  1.93 u 2  1.67 u 13 8.85
8.85 8.85
or yD   m  ive sign indicates deflection downward 
EI 50 u 103
0.177mm  downward .

(iii) A simply supported beam with a couple M at a distance a from left end
If a couple acts we have to take the distance in
the bracket and this should be raised to the
power zero. i.e. M(x a)0. Power is zero because
(x a)0 = 1 and unit of M(x a)0 = M but we
introduced the distance which is needed for
Macaulays method.

d2 y 0
EI M R A. x  M  x-a 
dx 2
Successive integration gives

dy M x2 1
EI .  A - M  x-a 
dx L 2
2
M 3 M  x-a 
EI y x  Ax + B -
6L 2
Where A and B are integration constants, we have to use boundary conditions to find out A & B.
at x = 0, y = 0 gives B = 0
2
M L-a  ML
at x = L, y = 0 gives A = 
2L 6

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

8. Moment area method

x This method is used generally to obtain displacement and rotation at a single point on a
beam.
x The moment area method is convenient in case of beams acted upon with point loads in
which case bending moment area consist of triangle and rectangles.

A C B
Loading
L
Mn

MB
Mc
B.M.diag

X
Deflection
2 OA
A ymax
C B
D
AD
AB
tBA

t A

x Angle between the tangents drawn at 2 points A&B on the elastic line, AB
1
AB = u Area of the bending moment diagram between A&B
EI
A B.M.
i.e. slope T AB
EI
x Deflection of B related to 'A'
M
yBA = Moment of diagram between B&A taking about B (or w.r.t. B)
EI
A B.M u x
i.e. deflection yBA
EI
Important Note

If A1 = Area of shear force (SF) diagram

A2 = Area of bending moment (BM) diagram,
A1 u A2
Then, Change of slope over any portion of the loaded beam =
EI

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Some typical bending moment diagram and their area (A) and distance of
C.G from one edge  x  is shown in the following table. [Note the distance
will be different from other end]
Shape BM Diagram Area Distance from C.G
1. Rectangle

b
A bh x
2

2. Triangle
b
x
3

3. Parabola b
x
4

4. Parabola
5.Cubic Parabola
6. y = k xn
7. Sine curve

Determination of Maximum slope and deflection

by Moment Area- Method
(i) A Cantilever beam with a point load at free end

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Area of BM (Bending moment diagram)

1 PL2
A u L u PL
2 2
Therefore
A PL2
Maximum slope T  (at free end)
EI 2EI
Ax
Maximum deflection G 
EI
PL2 2
u L
2 3 PL3
(at free end)
EI 3EI

(ii) A cantilever beam with a point load not at free end

1 Pa2
Area of BM diagram  A  u a u Pa
2 2
Therefore
A Pa2
Maximum slope T  ( at free end)
EI 2EI
Ax
Maximum deflection G 
EI
Pa2 a
u L-
2 3 Pa2 a
. L- (at free end)
EI 2EI 3

(iii) A cantilever beam with UDL over its whole length

1 wL2 wL3
Area of BM diagram  A  uL u
3 2 6
Therefore
A wL3
Maximum slope T  (at free end)
EI 6EI
Ax
Maximum deflection G 
EI
wL3 3
u L
6 4 wL4
(at free end)
EI 8EI
(iv) A simply supported beam with point load at mid-spam

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Area of shaded BM diagram
1 L PL PL2
A u u
2 2 4 16
Therefore
A PL2
Maximum slope T  (at each ends)
EI 16EI
Ax
Maximum deflection G 
EI
PL2 L
u
16 3 PL3
(at mid point)
EI 48EI

(v) A simply supported beam with UDL over its whole length
Area of BM diagram (shaded)
2 L wL2 wL3
A u u
3 2 8 24
Therefore
A wL3
Maximum slope T  (at each ends)
EI 24EI
Ax
Maximum deflection G 
EI
wL3 5 L
u u
24 8 2 5 wL4
(at mid point)
EI 384 EI

9. Method of superposition
Assumptions:
x Structure should be linear
x Slope of elastic line should be very small.
x The deflection of the beam should be small such that the effect due to the shaft or rotation of
the line of action of the load is neglected.

Principle of Superposition:
Deformations of beams subjected to combinations of loadings may be obtained as the linear
combination of the deformations from the individual loadings
Procedure is facilitated by tables of solutions for common types of loadings and supports.
Example:

For the beam and loading shown, determine

the slope and deflection at point B.

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
Superpose the deformations due to Loading I and Loading II as shown.

10. Conjugate beam method

In the conjugate beam method, the length of the conjugate beam is the same as the length of the
actual beam, the loading diagram (showing the loads acting) on the conjugate beam is simply the
bending-moment diagram of the actual beam divided by the flexural rigidity EI of the actual beam,
and the corresponding support condition for the conjugate beam is given by the rules as shown
below.

Corresponding support condition for the conjugate beam

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

Conjugates of Common Types of Real Beams

Conjugate beams for statically determinate Conjugate beams for Statically
real beams indeterminate real beams

By the conjugate beam method, the slope and deflection of the actual beam can be found by
using the following two rules:
x The slope of the actual beam at any cross section is equal to the shearing force at the
corresponding cross section of the conjugate beam.
x The deflection of the actual beam at any point is equal to the bending moment of the
conjugate beam at the corresponding point.

Procedure for Analysis

x Construct the M / EI diagram for the given (real) beam subjected to the specified (real)
loading. If a combination of loading exists, you may use M-diagram by parts
x Determine the conjugate beam corresponding to the given real beam
x Apply the M / EI diagram as the load on the conjugate beam as per sign convention
x Calculate the reactions at the supports of the conjugate beam by applying equations of
equilibrium and conditions
x Determine the shears in the conjugate beam at locations where slopes is desired in the
real beam, Vconj = real
x Determine the bending moments in the conjugate beam at locations where deflections is
desired in the real beam, Mconj = yreal

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 Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

The method of double integration, method of superposition, moment-area theorems, and

Castiglianos theorem are all well established methods for finding deflections of beams, but they
require that the boundary conditions of the beams be known or specified. If not, all of them
become helpless. However, the conjugate beam method is able to proceed and yield a solution for the
possible deflections of the beam based on the support conditions, rather than the boundary
conditions, of the beams.

(i) A Cantilever beam with a point load P at its free end.

For Real Beam: At a section a distance x from free end

consider the forces to the left. Taking moments about the
section gives (obviously to the left of the section) Mx = -P.x
(negative sign means that the moment on the left hand side
of the portion is in the anticlockwise direction and is
therefore taken as negative according to the sign convention)
so that the maximum bending moment occurs at the fixed
end i.e. Mmax = - PL ( at x = L)

wL2 wL
Considering equilibrium we get, MA and Reaction R A 
3 2
Considering any cross-section XX which is at a distance of x from the fixed end.
W
At this point load (Wx ) .x
L
Shear force  Vx  R A  area of triangle ANM

wL 1 w wL wx 2
- . .x .x = + -
2 2 L 2 2L
? The shear force variation is parabolic.
wL wL
at x 0, Vx  i.e. Maximum shear force, Vmax 
2 2
at x L, Vx 0

wx 2 2x
Bending moment  Mx  = R A .x - . - MA
2L 3

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
3 2
wL wx wL
= .x - -
2 6L 3
? The bending moment variation is cubic
wL2 wL2
at x = 0, Mx  i.e.Maximum B.M. Mmax   .
3 3
at x L, Mx 0

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Beam Deflection
GATE-1. A lean elastic beam of given flexural rigidity, EI,
is loaded by a single force F as shown in figure.
How many boundary conditions are necessary
to determine the deflected centre line of the
beam?
(a) 5 (b) 4
(c) 3 (d) 2
[GATE-1999]

Double Integration Method

GATE-2. A simply supported beam carrying a concentrated load W at mid-span deflects by 1 under the
load. If the same beam carries the load W such that it is distributed uniformly over entire
length and undergoes a deflection 2 at the mid span. The ratio 1: 2 is:[IES-1995; GATE-1994]
(a) 2: 1 (b) 2:1 (c) 1: 1 (d) 1: 2

GATE-3. A simply supported laterally loaded beam was found to deflect more than a specified value.
[GATE-2003]
Which of the following measures will reduce the deflection?
(a) Increase the area moment of inertia
(b) Increase the span of the beam
(c) Select a different material having lesser modulus of elasticity
(d) Magnitude of the load to be increased

GATE-4. A cantilever beam of length L is subjected to a moment M at the free end. The moment of
inertia of the beam cross section about the neutral axis is I and the Youngs modulus is E. The
magnitude of the maximum deflection is
ML2 ML2 2ML2 4ML2
( a) (b) (c) (d ) [GATE-2012]
2EI EI EI EI
Statement for Linked Answer Questions GATE-5 and GATE-6:

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
A triangular-shaped cantilever beam of uniform-
t P
thickness is shown in the figure. The Youngs
modulus of the material of the beam is E. A
concentrated load P is applied at the free end of l
the beam

x

b

[GATE-2011]
GATE-5. The area moment of inertia about the neutral axis of a cross-section at a distance x measure
from the free end is
bxt 3 bxt 3 bxt 3 xt 3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
61 121 241 12

GATE-6. The maximum deflection of the beam is [GATE-2011]

24Pl3 12Pl3 8Pl 3 6Pl 3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
Ebt 3
E bt 3 Ebt 3 Ebt 3

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Double Integration Method

IES-1. Consider the following statements: [IES-2003]
In a cantilever subjected to a concentrated load at the free end
1. The bending stress is maximum at the free end
2. The maximum shear stress is constant along the length of the beam
3. The slope of the elastic curve is zero at the fixed end
Which of these statements are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1 and 2

IES-2. A cantilever of length L, moment of inertia I. Young's modulus E carries a concentrated load W
at the middle of its length. The slope of cantilever at the free end is: [IES-2001]
WL2 WL2 WL2 WL2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2 EI 4 EI 8 EI 16 EI

IES-3. The two cantilevers A and

B shown in the figure have
the same uniform cross-
section and the same
material. Free end
deflection of cantilever 'A' is
. [IES-2000]
The value of mid- span deflection of the cantilever B is:
1 2
a b c d 2
2 3

IES-4. A cantilever beam of rectangular cross-section is subjected to a load W at its free end. If the
depth of the beam is doubled and the load is halved, the deflection of the free end as compared
to original deflection will be: [IES-1999]
(a) Half (b) One-eighth (c) One-sixteenth (d) Double

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

IES-5. A simply supported beam of constant flexural rigidity and length 2L carries a concentrated load
'P' at its mid-span and the deflection under the load is . If a cantilever beam of the same
flexural rigidity and length 'L' is subjected to load 'P' at its free end, then the deflection at the
free end will be: [IES-1998]
1
a b c 2 d 4
2

IES-6. Two identical cantilevers are

loaded as shown in the respective
figures. If slope at the free end of
the cantilever in figure E is , the
slope at free and of the cantilever
in figure F will be: Figure E Figure F
[IES-
1997]
1 1 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 2 3

IES-7. A cantilever beam carries a load W uniformly distributed over its entire length. If the same load
is placed at the free end of the same cantilever, then the ratio of maximum deflection in the first
case to that in the second case will be:
[IES-1996]
(a) 3/8 (b) 8/3 (c) 5/8 (d) 8/5

IES-8. The given figure shows a cantilever

of span 'L' subjected to a
concentrated load 'P' and a moment
'M' at the free end. Deflection at the
free end is given by

[IES-1996]
2 2 2 3 2 3 2
PL ML ML PL ML PL ML PL3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2 EI 3EI 2 EI 3EI 3EI 2 EI 2 EI 48EI

IES-9. For a cantilever beam of length 'L', flexural rigidity EI and loaded at its free end by a
concentrated load W, match List I with List II and select the correct answer.
List I List II
A. Maximum bending moment 1. Wl
B. Strain energy 2. Wl2/2EI
C. Maximum slope 3. Wl3/3EI
D. Maximum deflection 4. W2l2/6EI
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 4 3 2 (b) 1 4 2 3
(c) 4 2 1 3 (d) 4 3 1 2

IES-10. Maximum deflection of a cantilever beam of length l carrying uniformly distributed load w per
unit length will be: [IES- 2008]
(a) wl4/ (EI) (b) w l4/ (4 EI) (c) w l4/ (8 EI) (d) w l4/ (384 EI)
[Where E = modulus of elasticity of beam material and I = moment of inertia of beam cross-
section]

IES-11. A cantilever beam of length l is subjected to a concentrated load P at a distance of l/3 from the
free end. What is the deflection of the free end of the beam? (EI is the flexural rigidity)[IES-
2004]
2 Pl 3 3Pl 3 14 Pl 3 15Pl 3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
81EI 81EI 81EI 81EI

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

IES-12. A 2 m long beam BC carries a single

concentrated load at its mid-span and is
simply supported at its ends by two
cantilevers AB = 1 m long and CD = 2 m
long as shown in the figure.
The shear force at end A of the cantilever
AB will be
(a) Zero (b) 40 kg
(c) 50 kg (d) 60 kg [IES-1997]

IES-13. Assertion (A): In a simply supported beam subjected to a concentrated load P at mid-span, the
elastic curve slope becomes zero under the load. [IES-2003]
Reason (R): The deflection of the beam is maximum at mid-span.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-14. At a certain section at a distance 'x' from one of the supports of a simply supported beam, the
intensity of loading, bending moment and shear force arc Wx, Mx and Vx respectively. If the
intensity of loading is varying continuously along the length of the beam, then the invalid
relation is: [IES-2000]
Mx dM x d 2M x dVx
a Slope Qx b Vx c Wx d Wx
Vx dx dx 2 dx
IES-15. The bending moment equation, as a function of distance x measured from the left end, for a
simply supported beam of span L m carrying a uniformly distributed load of intensity w N/m
will be given by [IES-1999]
wL w wL w
a M= L-x - L-x Nm b M= x - x Nm
3 2

2 2 2 2
wL 2 w wL 2 wLx
c M= L-x - L-x Nm d M= x -
3
Nm
2 2 2 2

IES-16. A simply supported beam with width 'b' and depth d carries a central load W and undergoes
deflection at the centre. If the width and depth are interchanged, the deflection at the centre
of the beam would attain the value [IES-1997]
2 3 3/2

b c d
d d d d
a
b b b b

IES-17. A simply supported beam of rectangular section 4 cm by 6 cm carries a mid-span concentrated

load such that the 6 cm side lies parallel to line of action of loading; deflection under the load is
. If the beam is now supported with the 4 cm side parallel to line of action of loading, the
deflection under the load will be: [IES-1993]
(a) 0.44 (b) 0.67 (c) 1.5 (d) 2.25

IES-18. A simply supported beam carrying a concentrated load W at mid-span deflects by 1 under the
load. If the same beam carries the load W such that it is distributed uniformly over entire
length and undergoes a deflection 2 at the mid span. The ratio 1: 2 is:[IES-1995; GATE-1994]
(a) 2: 1 (b) 2:1 (c) 1: 1 (d) 1: 2

Moment Area Method

IES-19. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists:
[IES-1997]
List-I List-II
A. Toughness 1. Moment area method
B. Endurance strength 2. Hardness

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
C. Resistance to abrasion 3. Energy absorbed before fracture in a
tension test
D. Deflection in a beam 4. Fatigue loading
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 3 1 2 (b) 4 3 2 1
(c) 3 4 2 1 (d) 3 4 1 2

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Slope and Deflection at a Section

IAS-1. Which one of the following is represented by the area of the S.F diagram from one end upto a
given location on the beam? [IAS-2004]
(a) B.M. at the location (b) Load at the location
(c) Slope at the location (d) Deflection at the location

Double Integration Method

IAS-2. Which one of the following is the correct statement? [IAS-2007]
dM
If for a beam 0 for its whole length, the beam is a cantilever:
dx
(a) Free from any load (b) Subjected to a concentrated load at its free end
(c) Subjected to an end moment (d) Subjected to a udl over its whole span

IAS-3. In a cantilever beam, if the length is doubled while keeping the cross-section and the
concentrated load acting at the free end the same, the deflection at the free end will increase by
[IAS-1996]
(a) 2.66 times (b) 3 times (c) 6 times (d) 8 times

Conjugate Beam Method

IAS-4. By conjugate beam method, the slope at any section of an actual beam is equal to:[IAS-2002]
(a) EI times the S.F. of the conjugate beam (b) EI times the B.M. of the conjugate beam
(c) S.F. of conjugate beam (d) B.M. of the conjugate beam

IAS-5. I = 375 10-6 m4; l = 0.5 m

E = 200 GPa
Determine the stiffness of the beam
shown in the above figure
(a) 12 1010 N/m
(b) 10 1010 N/m
(c) 4 1010 N/m
(d) 8 1010 N/m
[IES-2002]

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
d2 y
GATE-1. Ans. (d) EI M . Since it is second order differential equation so we need two boundary
dx2
conditions to solve it.
W
5 l4
Wl3 l 5Wl3
GATE-2. Ans. (d) 1 and 2 Therefore 1: 2 = 5: 8
48EI 384EI 384EI
Wl3
GATE-3. Ans. (a) Maximum deflection () =
48EI
To reduce, , increase the area moment of Inertia.
GATE-4. Ans. (a)
GATE-5. Ans. (b) At any distance x
X-Section at x distance
Area moment of inertia about P
b h
Neutral-axis of cross-section
b 3
t x
bxt 3
Ix l
12 121 l

GATE-6. Ans. (d) From strain energy method

1
M 2d x
U [Here, M Px ]
0
2 EI
1 1
P 2x 2 6l P 2 6 l P 2 l 2 3l 3 P 2

Ebt 3 0
x d x
bxt 3 Ebt 3 2 Ebt 3
0
2E dx
121
Deflection at free end
U 6 P l 3

P Ebt 3

IES
IES-1. Ans. (b)
2
L
W

2 WL2
IES-2. Ans. (c) q = =
2EI 8EI
WL 3
WL2 5WL3
IES-3. Ans. (c) L
3EI 2EI 6EI
W 2Lx 2 x3 5WL3
ymid
EI 2 6 at x L 6EI
Wl 3 Wl 3 12 4Wl 3
IES-4. Ans. (c) Deflectionin cantilever
3EI 3Eah3 Eah3

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
3
4Wl 1 4Wl 3
If h is doubled, and W is halved, New deflection =
2 Ea 2h
3
16 Eah3

W 2L
3
WL3
IES-5. Ans. (c) for simply supported beam
48EI 6EI
3
WL
and deflection for Cantilever 2
3EI
ML PL / 2 L PL2
IES-6. Ans. (d) When a B. M is applied at the free end of cantilever,

EI EI 2 EI
PL2
When a cantilever is subjected to a single concentrated load at free end, then
2 EI
3 3
Wl Wl 3
IES-7. Ans. (a)
8 EI 3EI 8
IES-8. Ans. (b)
IES-9. Ans. (b)
IES-10. Ans. (c)
IES-11. Ans. (d) Moment Area method gives us
1 2Pl 2l l 4
l
Area 2 3 3 3 9
A x
EI EI
Pl3 2 7 14 Pl3

EI 9 9 81 EI
2
2l
W
Wa2 l a 3 l 2l / 3
Alternatively Ymax
EI 2 6 EI 2 6
Wl3 4 9 2

EI 9 18
14 Wl3

81 EI

IES-12. Ans. (c) Reaction force on B and C is same 100/2 = 50 kg. And we know that shear force is same
throughout its length and equal to load at free end.
IES-13. Ans. (a)
IES-14. Ans. (a)
IES-15. Ans. (b)
Wl3 Wl3
IES-16. Ans. (b) Deflection at center
48EI bd3
48E
12
Wl 3 Wl 3 Wl 3 d2 d2
In second case, deflection
48EI db3 bd 3 b 2 b 2
48E 48E
12 12
IES-17. Ans. (d) Use above explanation
W
5 l4
Wl3 l 5Wl3
IES-18. Ans. (d) 1 and 2 Therefore 1: 2 = 5: 8
48EI 384EI 384EI
IES-19. Ans. (c)

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (a)
IAS-2. Ans. (c) udl or point load both vary with x. But
if we apply Bending Moment (M) = const.
dM
and 0
dx

IAS-3. Ans. (d)

3
PL3 L
L
3
2 2 8
3EI 1 L1
IAS-4. Ans. (c)
IAS-5. Ans. (c) Stiffness means required load for unit deformation. BMD of the given beam

Loading diagram of conjugate beam

The deflection at the free end of the actual beam = BM of the at fixed point of conjugate beam
1 ML
2L WL L 1 WL 2L
3WL3
y = L
+
L
L + +


L

L +
=
2 EI 3 2EI 2 2 2EI 3 2EI
9 - 6
W 2EI 2 (200 10 ) (375 10 )
Or stiffness = = = = 4 1010 N / m
y 3L3 3 (0.5)
3

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question GATE-1999
Question: Consider the signboard mounting shown in figure below. The wind load acting perpendicular
to the plane of the figure is F = 100 N. We wish to limit the deflection, due to bending, at point
A of the hollow cylindrical pole of outer diameter 150 mm to 5 mm. Find the wall thickness for
the pole. [Assume E = 2.0 X 1011 N/m2]

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals

Answer: Given: F = 100 N; d0 = 150 mm, 0.15 my = 5 mm; E = 2.0 X 1O11 N/m2
Thickness of pole, t
The system of signboard mounting can be considered as a cantilever loaded at A i.e. W = 100
N and also having anticlockwise moment of M = 100 x 1 = 100 Nm at the free end. Deflection
of cantilever having concentrated load at the free end,
WL3 ML2
y
3EI 2EI
100 53 100 53
5 103
3 2.0 1011 I 2 2.0 1011 I
1 100 53 100 53 6 4
or I 5.417 10 m
5 103 3 2.0 1011 2 2.0 1011

But I
64
d
4
0 di4

5.417 106
64
0.15 4
di4
or di 0.141m or 141 mm
d0 di 150 141
t 4.5mm
2 2

Conventional Question IES-2003

Question: Find the slope and deflection at the free end of a cantilever beam of length 6m as loaded
shown in figure below, using method of superposition. Evaluate their numerical value using E
= 200 GPa, I = 110-4 m4 and W = 1 kN.
Answer: We have to use superposition
theory.
1st consider
PL3 (3W ) 23 8W
c = = =
3EI 3EI EI
2 2
PL (3W ).2 6W
c = = =
2EI 2EI EI
8W 6W 32W
Deflection at A due to this load(1 ) = c + qc .(6 - 2) = + 4=
EI EI EI

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
nd
2 consider:
(2W ) 43 128W
B = =
3EI 3EI
2
(2W ) 4 16W
qB = =
2EI EI
Deflection at A due to this load( 2 )
224W
=B + qB (6 - 4)=
3EI
.

3rd consider :
W 63 72W
(3 ) = A = =
3EI EI
2
W 6 18W
qA = =
2EI EI
Apply superpositioning formula
6W 16W 18W 40W 40 (103 )
= A + B + c = + + = =
EI EI EI EI (200 109 ) 10- 4
32W 224W 72W 40W 563W
= 1 + 2 + 3 = + + = =
EI 3EI EI EI 3EI
3
563(10 )
= = 8.93 mm
3 (200 109 ) (10- 4 )

Conventional Question IES-2002

Question: If two cantilever beams of identical dimensions but made of mild steel and grey cast iron are
subjected to same point load at the free end, within elastic limit, which one will deflect more
and why?

Answer: Grey cost iron will deflect more.

We know that a cantilever beam of length 'L' end load 'P' will deflect at free end

PL3
(d) =
3EI
1
\ d
E
ECast Iron ; 125 GPa and EMild steel ; 200 GPa

Conventional Question IES-1997

Question: A uniform cantilever beam (EI = constant) of length L is carrying a concentrated load P at its
free end. What would be its slope at the (i) Free end and (ii) Built in end

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Chapter-5 Deflection of Beam S K Mondals
2
PL
Answer: (i) Free end, =
2EI
(ii) Built-in end, = 0

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 6. Bending Stress in Beam

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

6.1 Euler Bernoullis Equation or (Bending stress formula) or Bending
Equation

V M E
y I R
Where V = Bending Stress
M = Bending Moment
I = Moment of Inertia
E = Modulus of elasticity
R = Radius of curvature
y = Distance of the fibre from NA (Neutral axis)

6.2 Assumptions in Simple Bending Theory

All of the foregoing theory has been developed for the case of pure bending i.e. constant B.M along
the length of the beam. In such case
x The shear force at each c/s is zero.
x Normal stress due to bending is only produced.
x Beams are initially straight
x The material is homogenous and isotropic i.e. it has a uniform composition and its
mechanical properties are the same in all directions
x The stress-strain relationship is linear and elastic
x Youngs Modulus is the same in tension as in compression
x Sections are symmetrical about the plane of bending
x Sections which are plane before bending remain plane after bending

6.3

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals

Mc1
V max V t
I
Mc2
V min V c (Minimum in sense of sign)
I
6.4 Section Modulus (Z)

I
Z=
y
x Z is a function of beam c/s only
x Z is other name of the strength of the beam
x The strength of the beam sections depends mainly on the section modulus

M
x The flexural formula may be written as, V
Z
bh 2
x Rectangular c/s of width is "b" & depth "h" with sides horizontal, Z =
6
a3
x Square beam with sides horizontal, Z =
6
a3
x Square c/s with diagonal horizontal, Z =
6 2
Sd3
x Circular c/s of diameter "d", Z =
32

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 Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
A log diameter "d" is available. It is proposed to cut out a strongest beam
from it. Then
b( d 2  b 2 )
Z=
6
bd 3 d
Therefore, Zmax = for b =
9 3

6.5 Flexural Rigidity (EI)

Reflects both
x Stiffness of the material (measured by E)
x Proportions of the c/s area (measured by I )

6.6 Axial Rigidity = EA

6.7 Beam of uniform strength
It is one is which the maximum bending stress is same in every section along the longitudinal axis.
For it M D bh 2
Where b = Width of beam
h = Height of beam

To make Beam of uniform strength the section of the beam may be varied by
x Keeping the width constant throughout the length and varying the depth, (Most widely used)
x Keeping the depth constant throughout the length and varying the width
x By varying both width and depth suitably.

6.8 Bending stress due to additional Axial thrust (P).

A shaft may be subjected to a combined bending and axial thrust. This type of situation arises in
various machine elements.

If P = Axial thrust

Then direct stress ( V d ) = P / A (stress due to axial thrust)

This direct stress ( V d ) may be tensile or compressive depending upon the load P is tensile or

compressive.

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
My
And the bending stress ( V b ) = is varying linearly from zero at centre and extremum (minimum
I
or maximum) at top and bottom fibres.

If P is compressive then
P My
x At top fibre V  (compressive)
A I
P
x At mid fibre V (compressive)
A
P My
x At bottom fibre V (compressive)
A I

6.9 Load acting eccentrically to one axis

P  P u e y
x V max  where e is the eccentricity at which P is act.
A I
P  P u e y
x V min 
A I
Condition for No tension in any section
2k 2
x For no tension in any section, the eccentricity must not exceed
d
[Where d = depth of the section; k = radius of gyration of c/s]
h h
x For rectangular section (b x h) , e d i.e load will be 2e of the middle section.
6 3
d d
x For circular section of diameter d , e d i.e. diameter of the kernel, 2e
8 4
D2  d 2 D2  d 2
For hollow circular section of diameter d , e d i.e. diameter of the kernel, 2e d .
8D 4D

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Bending equation
GATE-1. A cantilever beam has the square
cross section 10mm 10 mm. It
carries a transverse load of 10 N.
Considering only the bottom
fibres of the beam, the correct
representation of the longitudinal
variation of the bending stress is:
[GATE-2005]

GATE-2. Two beams, one having square cross section and another circular cross-section, are subjected to
the same amount of bending moment. If the cross sectional area as well as the material of both
the beams are the same then [GATE-2003]
(a) Maximum bending stress developed in both the beams is the same
(b) The circular beam experiences more bending stress than the square one
(c) The square beam experiences more bending stress than the circular one
(d) As the material is same both the beams will experience same deformation

Section Modulus
GATE-3. Match the items in Columns I and II. [GATE-2006]
Column-I Column-II
P. Addendum 1. Cam
Q. Instantaneous centre of velocity 2. Beam
R. Section modulus 3. Linkage
S. Prime circle 4. Gear
(a) P 4, Q 2, R 3, S l (b) P 4, Q 3, R 2, S 1
(c) P 3, Q 2, R 1, S 4 (d) P 3, Q 4, R 1, S 2

Combined direct and bending stress

GATE-4. For the component loaded with a force F as shown in the figure, the axial stress at the corner
point P is: [GATE-2008]

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals

F (3L b) F (3L b) F (3L 4b) F (3L 2b)

(a) (b) (c) (d)
4b3 4b3 4b3 4b3

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Bending equation
IES-1. Beam A is simply supported at its ends and carries udl of intensity w over its entire length. It is
made of steel having Young's modulus E. Beam B is cantilever and carries a udl of intensity w/4
over its entire length. It is made of brass having Young's modulus E/2. The two beams are of
same length and have same cross-sectional area. If A and B denote the maximum bending
stresses developed in beams A and B, respectively, then which one of the following is correct?
[IES-2005]
(a) A/B (b) A/B < 1.0
(c) A/B > 1.0 (d) A/B depends on the shape of cross-section

IES-2. If the area of cross-section of a circular section beam is made four times, keeping the loads,
length, support conditions and material of the beam unchanged, then the qualities (List-I) will
change through different factors (List-II). Match the List-I with the List-II and select the correct
answer using the code given below the Lists: [IES-2005]
List-I List-II
A. Maximum BM 1. 8
B. Deflection 2. 1
C. Bending Stress 3. 1/8
D. Section Modulus 4. 1/16
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 1 2 4 (b) 2 4 3 1
(c) 3 4 2 1 (d) 2 1 3 4

IES-3. Consider the following statements in case of beams: [IES-2002]

1. Rate of change of shear force is equal to the rate of loading at a particular section
2. Rate of change of bending moment is equal to the shear force at a particular suction.
3. Maximum shear force in a beam occurs at a point where bending moment is either zero or
bending moment changes sign
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 alone (b) 2 alone (c) 1 and 2 (d) 1, 2 and 3

IES-4. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists:
[IES-2006]
List-I (State of Stress) List-II (Kind of Loading)

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals

1. Combined bending and torsion of circular

shaft

2. Torsion of circular shaft

3. Thin cylinder subjected to internal

pressure

4. Tie bar subjected to tensile force

Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 2 1 3 4 (b) 3 4 2 1
(c) 2 4 3 1 (d) 3 1 2 4

IES-4a. A T-section beam is simply supported and subjected to a uniform distributed load over its whole
span. Maximum longitudinal stress at [IES-2011]
(a) Top fibre of the flange (b) The junction of web and flange
(c) The mid-section of the web (d) The bottom fibre of the web

Section Modulus
IES-5. Two beams of equal cross-sectional area are subjected to equal bending moment. If one beam
has square cross-section and the other has circular section, then [IES-1999]
(a) Both beams will be equally strong
(b) Circular section beam will be stronger
(c) Square section beam will be stronger
(d) The strength of the beam will depend on the nature of loading

IES-6. A beam cross-section is used in two

different orientations as shown in the
given figure:
Bending moments applied to the
beam in both cases are same. The
maximum bending stresses induced
in cases (A) and (B) are related as:
(a) A 4 B (b) A 2 B
B B
(c) A (d) A
2 4
[IES-1997]

IES-6(i). A beam with a rectangular section of 120 mm 60 mm, designed to be placed vertically is
placed horizontally by mistake. If the maximum stress is to be limited, the reduction in load
carrying capacity would be [IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
IES-7. A horizontal beam with square cross-section is simply supported with sides of the square
horizontal and vertical and carries a distributed loading that produces maximum bending stress
a in the beam. When the beam is placed with one of the diagonals horizontal the maximum
bending stress will be:
[IES-1993]
1
(a) (b) (c) 2 (d) 2
2

IES-7(i). The ratio of the moments of resistance of a square beam (Z) when square section is placed (i)
with two sides horizontal (Z1) and (ii) with a diagonal horizontal (Z2 ) as shown is
[IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

IES-8. Which one of the following combinations of angles will carry the maximum load as a column?
[IES-1994]

IES-9. Assertion (A): For structures steel I-beams preferred to other shapes. [IES-1992]
Reason (R): In I-beams a large portion of their cross-section is located far from the neutral axis.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Combined direct and bending stress

IES-10. Assertion (A): A column subjected to eccentric load will have its stress at centroid independent
of the eccentricity. [IES-1994]
Reason (R): Eccentric loads in columns produce torsion.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true
IES-11. For the configuration of loading shown in the given figure, the stress in fibre AB is given by:
[IES-1995]

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
P P.e.5
(a) P/A (tensile) (b) (Compressive)
A I xx
P P.e.5
(c) (Compressive) (d) P/A (Compressive)
A I xx

IES-12. A column of square section 40 mm 40 mm,

fixed to the ground carries an eccentric load
P of 1600 N as shown in the figure.
If the stress developed along the edge CD is
1.2 N/mm2, the stress along the edge AB will
be:

(a) 1.2 N/mm2

(b) +1 N/mm2
(c) +0.8 N/mm2
(d) 0.8 N/mm2

[IES-1999]

IES-13. A short column of symmetric cross-section

made of a brittle material is subjected to an
eccentric vertical load P at an eccentricity e. To
avoid tensile stress in the short column, the
eccentricity e should be less than or equal to:
(a) h/12 (b) h/6
(c) h/3 (d) h/2

[IES-2001]

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
IES-14. A short column of external diameter D and internal diameter d carries an eccentric load W. Toe
greatest eccentricity which the load can have without producing tension on the cross-section of
the column would be: [IES-1999]
Dd D2 d 2 D2 d 2 D2 d 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
8 8d 8D 8

IES-15 The ratio of the core of a rectangular section to the area of the rectangular section when used as
a short column is [IES-2010]
1 1 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
9 36 18 24

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Bending equation
IAS-1. Consider the cantilever loaded as shown below: [IAS-2004]

What is the ratio of the maximum compressive to the maximum tensile stress?
(a) 1.0 (b) 2.0 (c) 2.5 (d) 3.0

IAS-2. A 0.2 mm thick tape goes over a frictionless pulley of 25 mm diameter. If E of the material is
100 GPa, then the maximum stress induced in the tape is: [IAS 1994]
(a) 100 MPa (b) 200 MPa (c) 400 MPa (d) 800 MPa

Section Modulus
IAS-3. A pipe of external diameter 3 cm and internal diameter 2 cm and of length 4 m is supported at
its ends. It carries a point load of 65 N at its centre. The sectional modulus of the pipe will be:
[IAS-2002]

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
65 65 65 65
(a) cm3 (b) cm3 (c) cm3 (d) cm3
64 32 96 128

IAS-4. A Cantilever beam of rectangular cross-section is 1m deep and 0.6 m thick. If the beam were to
be 0.6 m deep and 1m thick, then the beam would. [IAS-1999]
(a) Be weakened 0.5 times
(b) Be weakened 0.6 times
(c) Be strengthened 0.6 times
(d) Have the same strength as the original beam because the cross-sectional area remains the
same

IAS-5. A T-beam shown in the given figure is

subjected to a bending moment such that
plastic hinge forms. The distance of the neutral
axis from D is (all dimensions are in mm)
(a) Zero
(b) 109 mm
(c) 125 mm
(d) 170 mm

[IAS-2001]
IAS-6. Assertion (A): I, T and channel sections are preferred for beams. [IAS-2000]
Reason(R): A beam cross-section should be such that the greatest possible amount of area is as
far away from the neutral axis as possible.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-7. If the T-beam cross-section shown in

the given figure has bending stress of
30 MPa in the top fiber, then the
stress in the bottom fiber would be (G
is centroid)
(a) Zero
(b) 30 MPa
(c) 80 MPa
(d) 50 Mpa

[IAS-2000]
IAS-8. Assertion (A): A square section is more economical in bending than the circular section of same
area of cross-section. [IAS-1999]
Reason (R): The modulus of the square section is less than of circular section of same area of
cross-section.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
Bimetallic Strip
IAS-9. A straight bimetallic strip of copper and steel is heated. It is free at ends. The strip, will:[IAS-
2002]
(a) Expand and remain straight (b) Will not expand but will bend
(c) Will expand and bend also (d) Twist only

Combined direct and bending stress

IAS-10. A short vertical column having a
square cross-section is subjected to an
axial compressive force, centre of
pressure of which passes through point
R as shown in the above figure.
Maximum compressive stress occurs at
point
(a) S
(b) Q
(c) R
(d) P
[IAS-2002]
IAS-11. A strut's cross-sectional area A is subjected to load P a point S (h, k) as shown in the given
figure. The stress at the point Q (x, y) is: [IAS-2000]
P Phy Pkx
(a)
A Ix Iy
P Phx Pky
(b)
A Iy Ix
P Phy Pkx
(c)
A Iy Ix
P Phx Pky
(d)
A Iy Ix

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
M My 10 x 0.005
GATE-1. Ans. (a) Mx P.x or 60.(x) MPa
0.01
4
I y I
12
At x 0; 0
At x 1m; 60MPa
And it is linear as x
M E My
GATE-2. Ans. (b) ; or ;
I y I
a d
M M
2 6M 2 32M 4 M 22.27M d2
sq 3 ; cir 4 a2
1 a d d3 a3 a3 4
a.a3
12 64
sq cir
GATE-3. Ans. (b)
GATE-4. Ans. (d) Total Stress = Direct stress + Stress due to Moment

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
P My F F (L - b ) b
= + = 2
+
A I 4b 2b (b)3
12

IES
My
IES-1. Ans. (d) Bending stress , y and I both depends on the
I
A
Shape of cross sec tion so depends on the shape of cross sec tion
B
IES-2. Ans. (b) Diameter will be double, D = 2d.
A. Maximum BM will be unaffected
4
EI1 d 1
B. deflection ratio
EI2 4 16
My M d / 2
3
2 d 1
C. Bending stress or Bending stress ratio
I d4 1 D 8
64
3
Z2 I2 y1 D
D. Selection Modulus ratio 8
Z1 y1 I1 d
IES-3. Ans. (c)
IES-4. Ans. (c)
IES-4a. Ans. (d)
4
IES-5. Ans. (b) If D is diameter of circle and 'a' the side of square section, d 2 a 2 or d a
4
d2 a3 a3
Z for circular section = ; and Z for square section =
32 4 6
2
b b 2
2 b 3 b b3
IES-6. Ans. (b) Z for rectangular section is
bd
, ZA

2 b
, ZB 2
6 6 24 6 12
3 3
b b
M Z A . A Z B . B or A B , or A 2 B
24 12
IES-6(i). Ans. (c)
M
IES-7. Ans. (c) Bending stress =
Z
a3
For rectangular beam with sides horizontal and vertical, Z =
6
a3
For same section with diagonal horizontal, Z =
6 2
Ratio of two stresses = 2
IES-7(i). Ans. (c)
IES-8. Ans. (a)
IES-9. Ans. (a)
IES-10. Ans. (c) A is true and R is false.
P My Pky
IES-11. Ans. (b) d (compressive), x (tensile)
A Ix Ix

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
P 6e 1600 6e
IES-12. Ans. (d) Compressive stress at CD = 1.2 N/mm2 = 1 1
A b 1600 20
6e 1600
or 0.2. Sostress at AB 1 0.2 0.8 N/mm2 (com)
20 1600
IES-13. Ans. (b)
IES-14. Ans. (c)
1 b h bh
IES-15 Ans. (c) A 4
2 6 6 18

IAS
My M 2h
IAS-1. Ans. (b) = compressive, Max at lower end of A.
I I 3
M h
at upper end of B
tensile, max =
I 3
E 0.2 25
IAS-2. Ans. (d) Here y = 0.1 mm = 0.1 x 10-3 m, R = mm = 12.5 x 10-3 m
y R 2 2
100 10 3 0.1 10 3
or MPa = 800MPa
12 .5 10 3

I 64
34 24 65
IAS-3. Ans. (c) Section modulus (z) cm3 cm3
y 3 96
2
I 0.6 13
IAS-4. Ans. (b) z1 1.2m3
y 0.5
I 1 0.63
and z2 0.72m3
y 0.3
z2 0.72
0.6 times
z1 1.2

IAS-5. Ans. (b)

IAS-6. Ans. (a) Because it will increase area moment of inertia, i.e. strength of the beam.
M 1 2 30
IAS-7. Ans. (c) or 2 y2 1 110 30 80 MPa
I y1 y2 y1 30
As top fibre in tension so bottom fibre will be in compression.
IAS-8. ans. (c)
IAS-9. Ans. (c) As expansion of copper will be more than steel.

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
IAS-10. Ans. (a) As direct and bending both the stress is compressive here.
IAS-11. Ans. (b) All stress are compressive, direct stress,
P My Pky
d (compressive), x (compressive)
A Ix Ix
Mx Phx
and y (compressive)
Iy Iy

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-2008
Question: A Simply supported beam AB of span length 4 m supports a uniformly distributed
load of intensity q = 4 kN/m spread over the entire span and a concentrated load P =
2 kN placed at a distance of 1.5 m from left end A. The beam is constructed of a
rectangular cross-section with width b = 10 cm and depth d = 20 cm. Determine the
maximum tensile and compressive stresses developed in the beam to bending.
Answer:
X
2KN 4kN/M

A
B
1.5

4m
NA

RA RB
B=10cm
X C/s

RA + RB = 2 + 44.........(i)
-RA 4 + 2(4-1.5) + (44)2=0.......(ii)
or RA = 9.25 kN, RB =18-RA = 8.75 kN
if 0 x 2.5 m

Mx =RB x - 4x. x ( 2) -2(x-2.5)

=8.75x - 2x 2 - 2x + 5 = 6.75x - 2x 2 + 5 ...(ii)
From (i) & (ii) we find out that bending movment at x = 2.1875 m in(i)
gives maximum bending movement
dM
[Just find for both the casses]
dx
Mmax = 8.25 2.1875 218752 = 9.57K 7kNm
bh3 0.1 0.23
Area movement of Inertia = (I) = = 6.6667 105 m 4
12 12
Maximum distance from NA is y = 10 cm = 0.1m
My (9.57 103 ) 0.1 N
max = = = 14.355MPa
I 6.6667105 m2
Therefore maximum tensile stress in the lowest point in the beam is 14.355 MPa and
maximum compressive stress in the topmost fiber of the beam is -14.355 MPa.

Conventional Question IES-2007

Question: A simply supported beam made of rolled steel joist (I-section: 450mm 200mm) has
a span of 5 m and it carriers a central concentrated load W. The flanges are
strengthened by two 300mm 20mm plates, one riveted to each flange over the
entire length of the flanges. The second moment of area of the joist about the
principal bending axis is 35060 cm4. Calculate
(i) The greatest central load the beam will carry if the bending stress in the
300mm/20mm plates is not to exceed 125 MPa.

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
(ii) The minimum length of the 300 mm plates required to restrict the maximum
bending stress is the flanges of the joist to 125 MPa.
Answer:

Moment of Inertia of the total section about X-X

(I) = moment of inertia of I section + moment of inertia of the plates about X-X axis.
30 23 45 2
2

= 35060 + 2 + 30 2 + = 101370 cm4

2 2
12
(i) Greatest central point load(W):
For a simply supported beam a concentrated load at centre.
WL W 5
M= = = 1.25W
4 4
.I (125 10 )(101370 10 )
6 8

M= = = 517194Nm
y 0.245
1.25W = 517194 or W = 413.76 kN
(ii) Suppose the cover plates are absent for a distance of x-meters from each support. Then at
these points the bending moment must not exceed moment of resistance of I section alone
i.e
.I (35060 108 )
= (125 10 )
6
= 178878Nm
y 0.245
Bending moment at x metres from each support

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
W
= x = 178878
2
41760
or , x = 178878
2
or x = 0.86464 m
Hence leaving 0.86464 m from each support, for the
middle 5 - 20.86464 = 3.27 m the cover plate should be
provided.

Conventional Question IES-2002

Question: A beam of rectangular cross-section 50 mm wide and 100 mm deep is simply
supported over a span of 1500 mm. It carries a concentrated load of 50 kN, 500 mm
from the left support.
Calculate: (i) The maximum tensile stress in the beam and indicate where it occurs:
(ii) The vertical deflection of the beam at a point 500 mm from the right support.
E for the material of the beam = 2 105 MPa.
Answer: Taking moment about L
RR 1500 = 50 500
or , RR = 16.667 kN
or , RL + RR = 50
RL = 50 16.667=33.333 kN
Take a section from right R,
x-x at a distance x.
Bending moment (Mx ) = +RR .x

Therefore maximum bending moment will occur at 'c' Mmax=16.6671 KNm

(i) Moment of Inertia of beam cross-section

bh3 0.050(0.100)3 4
(I ) = = m = 4.1667106 m4
12 12
Applying bending equation
0.001
M E My
(16.67103 )
2
= = or, max = = 6
N / m 2 = 200MPa
I y I 4.1667 10
It will occure where M is maximum at point 'C'
(ii) Macaulay's method for determing the deflection
of the beam will be convenient as there is point load.
d2y
M x = EI = 33.333 x 50 ( x 0.5)
dx 2

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
Integrate both side we get
d2 y x 2 50
EI 2
= 33.333 ( x 0.5) 2 + c1 x + c2
dx 2 2
at x=0, y=0 gives c 2 = 0
at x=1.5, y=0 gives
0=5.556(1.5)3 8.33313 + c1 1.5
or , c1 = 6.945

EIy = 5.556 x 3 8.333( x 0.5)3 6.9451 = 2.43

2.43
or , y = m = -2.9167 mm[downward so -ive]
(210 10 ) (4.1667 106 )
5 6

Conventional Question AMIE-1997

Question: If the beam cross-section is rectangular having a width of 75 mm, determine the
required depth such that maximum bending stress induced in the beam does not
exceed 40 MN/m2
Answer: Given: b =75 mm =0075 m, max =40 MN/m2
Depth of the beam, d: Figure below shows a rectangular section of width b = 0075 m and
depth d metres. The bending is considered to take place about the horizontal neutral axis N.A.
shown in the figure. The maximum bending stress occurs at the outer fibres of the rectangular
d
section at a distance above or below the neutral axis. Any fibre at a distance y from N.A. is
2
My
subjected to a bending stress, = , where I denotes the second moment of area of the
I
bd3
rectangular section about the N.A. i.e. .
12
d
At the outer fibres, y = , the maximum bending stress there becomes
2

d
M
max = 2 = M (i)
bd3 bd2
12 6
2
bd
or M = max . (ii)
6
For the condition of maximum strength i.e. maximum moment M, the product bd2 must be a
maximum, since max is constant for a given material. To maximize the quantity bd2 we
realise that it must be expressed in terms of one independent variable, say, b, and we may do
this from the right angle triangle relationship.

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Chapter-6 Bending Stress in Beam S K Mondals
Multiplying both sides by b, we get bd2 bD2 b3
To maximize bd2 we take the first derivative of expression with respect to b and set it equal to
zero, as follows:
d d
db

bd2
db

bD2 b3 D2 3b2 b2 d2 3b2 d2 2b2 0

Solving, we have, depth d 2 b ...(iii)

This is the desired radio in order that the beam will carry a maximum moment M.
It is to be noted that the expression appearing in the denominator of the right side of eqn. (i) i.
bd2
e. is the section modulus (Z) of a rectangular bar. Thus, it follows; the section modulus is
6
actually the quantity to be maximized for greatest strength of the beam.
Using the relation (iii), we have
d= 2 x 0075 = 00106 m
bd2
Now, M = max x Z = max x
6
Substituting the values, we get
0.075 0.106
2

M = 40 = 0.005618 MNm
6
M 0.005618
max 40MN / m2
Z 0.075 0.106 2 / 6
Hence, the required depth d = 0106 m = 106 mm

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 7. Shear Stress in Beam

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

1. Shear stress in bending ( W )
vQ
W =
Ib
dM
Where, V = Shear force =
dx
c1

Q = Statical moment = ydA

y1

I = Moment of inertia
b = Width of beam c/s.

2. Statical Moment (Q)

c1

Q= ydA = Shaded Area distance of the centroid of the shaded area from the neutral axis of
y1

the c/s.

3. Variation of shear stress

Section Diagram Position of W max
W max
Rectangular N.A 3V
W max =
2A
W max 1.5W mean
W NA
Circular N.A
4
W max W mean
3

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 Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals
Triangular h W max 1.5W mean
from N.A
6
W NA = 1.33 W mean

Trapezoidal h
from N.A
6

Section Diagram W max

Uni form In Flange,
I-Section V 2 h12
( W max ) W max  y h1 h
1
2 8I

W max  y1
h
2
o

In Web
v
W max  y b(h12 h12 )  th12
1 o
8It

vb 2
W m im  y h1 h  h12
1
2 8 It

4. Variation of shear stress for some more section [Asked in different examinations]
Non uniform I-Section Diagonally placed square section

L-section Hollow circle

T-section Cross

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

5. Rectangular section
3V
x Maximum shear stress for rectangular beam: W max =
2A
x For this, A is the area of the entire cross section
x Maximum shear occurs at the neutral axis
x Shear is zero at the top and bottom of beam

6. Shear stress in beams of thin walled profile section.

x Shear stress at any point in the wall distance "s" from the free edge

A
Shearing occurs here

B
Vx
s
Vx
W ydA
It o

where Vx Shear force

W = Thickness of the section
I = Moment of inrertia about NA

x Shear Flow (q)

s
Vx
Wt
I NA o
q = ydA

x Shear Force (F)

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 Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

F= qds

x Shear Centre (e)

Point of application of shear stress resultant

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Shear Stress Variation

GATE-1. The transverse shear stress acting in a
beam of rectangular cross-section,
subjected to a transverse shear load, is:
(a) Variable with maximum at the
bottom of the beam
(b) Variable with maximum at the
top of the beam
(c) Uniform
(d) Variable with maximum on the
neutral axis

[IES-1995, GATE-2008]
GATE-2. The ratio of average shear stress to the maximum shear stress in a beam with a square cross-
section is: [GATE-1994, 1998]
2 3
(a) 1 (b) (c) (d) 2
3 2

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Shear Stress Variation

IES-1. At a section of a beam, shear force is F with zero BM. The cross-section is square with side a.
Point A lies on neutral axis and point B is mid way between neutral axis and top edge, i.e. at
distance a/4 above the neutral axis. If t A and t B denote shear stresses at points A and B, then
what is the value of t A / t B? [IES-2005]
(a) 0 (b) (c) 4/3 (d) None of above

IES-2. A wooden beam of rectangular cross-section 10 cm deep by 5 cm wide carries maximum shear
force of 2000 kg. Shear stress at neutral axis of the beam section is: [IES-1997]
(a) Zero (b) 40 kgf/cm2 (c) 60 kgf/cm2 (d) 80 kgf/cm2

IES-3. In case of a beam of circular cross-section subjected to transverse loading, the maximum shear
stress developed in the beam is greater than the average shear stress by:[IES-2006; 2008]
(a) 50% (b) 33% (c) 25% (d) 10%

IES-4. What is the nature of distribution of shear stress in a rectangular beam?

[IES-1993, 2004; 2008]
(a) Linear (b) Parabolic (c) Hyperbolic (d) Elliptic

IES-5. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IES 2007]

When a rectangular section beam is loaded transversely along the length, shear stress develops
on
(a) Top fibre of rectangular beam (b) Middle fibre of rectangular beam
(c) Bottom fibre of rectangular beam (d) Every horizontal plane

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

IES-6. A beam having rectangular cross-section is subjected to an external loading. The average shear
stress developed due to the external loading at a particular cross-section is t avg . What is the
maximum shear stress developed at the same cross-section due to the same loading?[IES-2009]
1 3
(a) tavg (b) tavg (c) tavg (d) 2 tavg
2 2

IES-7. The transverse shear stress acting

in a beam of rectangular cross-
section, subjected to a transverse
shear load, is:
(a) Variable with maximum at the
bottom of the beam
(b) Variable with maximum at the
top of the beam
(c) Uniform
(d) Variable with maximum on the
neutral axis

[IES-1995, GATE-2008]
IES-8.

A cantilever is loaded by a concentrated load P at the free end as shown. The shear stress in the
element LMNOPQRS is under consideration. Which of the following figures represents the
shear stress directions in the cantilever?
[IES-2002]

IES-9. In I-Section of a beam subjected to transverse shear force, the maximum shear stress is
developed. [IES- 2008]
(a) At the centre of the web (b) At the top edge of the top flange
(c) At the bottom edge of the top flange (d) None of the above

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals
IES-10. The given figure (all dimensions
are in mm) shows an I-Section of
the beam. The shear stress at point
P (very close to the bottom of the
flange) is 12 MPa. The stress at
point Q in the web (very close to
the flange) is:
(a) Indeterminable due to
incomplete data
(b) 60MPa
(c) 18 MPa
(d) 12 MPa

[IES-2001]
IES-11. Assertion (A): In an I-Section beam subjected to concentrated loads, the shearing force at any
section of the beam is resisted mainly by the web portion.
Reason (R): Average value of the shearing stress in the web is equal to the value of shearing
stress in the flange. [IES-1995]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-11(i). Statement (I): If the bending moment along the length of a beam is constant, then the beam
cross-section will not experience any shear stress. [IES-2012]
Statement (II): The shear force acting on the beam will be zero everywhere along its length.
(a) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true and Statement (II) is the correct
explanation of Statement (I)
(b) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true but Statement (II) is not the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(c) Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
(d) Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true

Shear stress distribution for different section

IES-12. The shear stress distribution over a beam cross-section is
shown in the figure above. The beam is of
(a) Equal flange I-Section
(b) Unequal flange I-Section
(c) Circular cross-section
(d) T-section

[IES-2003]

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Shear Stress Variation

IAS-1. Consider the following statements: [IAS-2007]
Two beams of identical cross-section but of different materials carry same bending moment at a
particular section, then
1. The maximum bending stress at that section in the two beams will be same.
2. The maximum shearing stress at that section in the two beams will be same.
3. Maximum bending stress at that section will depend upon the elastic modulus of the beam
material.
4. Curvature of the beam having greater value of E will be larger.

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 2, 3 and 4

IAS-2. In a loaded beam under bending [IAS-2003]

(a) Both the maximum normal and the maximum shear stresses occur at the skin fibres
(b) Both the maximum normal and the maximum shear stresses occur the neutral axis
(c) The maximum normal stress occurs at the skin fibres while the maximum shear stress
occurs at the neutral axis
(d) The maximum normal stress occurs at the neutral axis while the maximum shear stress
occurs at the skin fibres

Shear stress distribution for different section

IAS-3. Select the correct shear stress distribution diagram for a square beam with a diagonal in a
vertical position: [IAS-2002]

IAS-4. The distribution of shear stress of a beam is shown in the given figure. The cross-section of the
beam is: [IAS-2000]

IAS-5. A channel-section of the beam shown in the given figure carries a uniformly distributed load.
[IAS-2000]

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

Assertion (A): The line of action of the load passes through the centroid of the cross-section. The
beam twists besides bending.
Reason (R): Twisting occurs since the line of action of the load does not pass through the web of
the beam.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
3
GATE-1. Ans (d) max mean
2
GATE-2. Ans. (b)
3
max mean
2

a a2 3 V
V y2 .a 2
VAy 2 4 3 V a2 4y 2 4
IES-1. Ans. (c)
Ib
4
2 a3
or A 2 a3
B 3 V 2

a a 3
2
a . . a 4
12 2 a3 4
3 F 3 2000
IES-2. Ans. (c) Shear stress at neutral axis = 60 kg/cm 2
2 bd 2 10 5
IES-3. Ans. (b) In the case of beams with circular cross-section, the ratio of the maximum shear stress to
average shear stress 4:3

IES-4. Ans. (b)

V h2 2
y1 indicating a parabolic distribution of shear stress across the cross-section.
4I 4
IES-5. Ans. (b)

IES-6. Ans. (c)

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

Shear stress in a rectangular Shear stress in a circular beam, the maximum

beam, maximum shear stress, shear stress,
3F 4F 4
max 1.5 (average) max
2b. h 2 3 (average)
3 d
4
3
IES-7. Ans (d) max mean
2
IES-8. Ans. (d)
IES-9. Ans. (a)
IES-10. Ans. (b)
IES-11. Ans. (c)
IES-11(i). Ans. (a)
IES-12. Ans. (b)

My VAy
IAS-1. Ans. (a) Bending stress = and shear stress ( ) = both of them does not depends on
I Ib
material of beam.

IAS-2. Ans. (c)

V h2 2
y1 indicating a parabolic distribution of shear stress across the cross-section.
4I 4
IAS-3. Ans. (d)
IAS-4. Ans. (b)
IAS-5. Ans. (c) Twisting occurs since the line of action of the load does not pass through the shear.

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-2009
Q. (i)A cantilever of circular solid cross-section is fixed at one end and carries a concentrated load P
at the free end. The diameter at the free end is 200 mm and increases uniformly to 400 mm at
the fixed end over a length of 2 m. At what distance from the free end will the bending stresses
in the cantilever be maximum? Also calculate the value of the maximum bending stress if the
concentrated load P = 30 kN [15-Marks]

M
Ans. We have .... (i)
y I
Taking distance x from the free end we have
M = 30x k N .m = 30x 10 3 N .m
x
y = 100 + 200 100
2
100 50x m m
d 4
and I =
64
Let d be the diameter at x from free end.
400 200 x
4

200
2
64
200 100x
4
mm 4
64
From equation (i), we have

100 50x 10 3
30x 10 3


200 100x 4 10 12
64
960x
200 100x 3 1012 ...... (ii)

960x
200 100x 3 1012

d
Fo r m a x , 0
dx
1012 960


x 3 100 200 100x 4 1. 200 100x 3 0

- 300x + 200 + 100x = 0
x = 1m

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals
30k N

200
400

2000mm
(2m)
Hence maximum bending stress occurs at the midway and from equation (ii), maximum bending
stress
960
1 200 100 3 1012

960 1012
11.32 MP a
300
3

Conventional Question IES-2006

Question: A timber beam 15 cm wide and 20 cm deep carries uniformly distributed load over a span of 4
m and is simply supported.
If the permissible stresses are 30 N/mm 2 longitudinally and 3 N/mm2 transverse shear,
calculate the maximum load which can be carried by the timber beam.

bh 3 0.15 0.20
3

Answer: Moment of inert ia (I) 10 4 m 4

12 12
20
Dist a n ce of n eu t r a l a xis fr om t h e t op su r fa ce y 10 cm 0.1 m
2
M My
We kn ow t h a t or
I y I
Wh er e m a xim u m ben din g m om en t du e t o u n ifor m ly
2
42
dist r ibu t ed loa d in sim ply su ppor t ed bea m ( M ) 2
8 8
Con s ider in g lon git u din a l st r ess

30 10 6
2 0.1
10 4
or , 15 kN/m

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Chapter-7 Shear Stress in Beam S K Mondals
Now con siden g Sh ea r
. L .4
Ma xim u m sh ea r for ce 2
2 2
2
Th er efor e a ver a ge sh ea r st r ess ( mea n ) 66.67
0.15 0.2
F or r ect a n gu la r cr oss-sect ion
3 3
Ma xim u m sh ea r st r ess( ma x ) . 66.67 100
2 2
Now 3 10 6 100 ; 30 kN/m
So m a xim u m loa d ca r r in g ca pa cit y of t h e bea m = 15 kN/m (wit h ou t fa il).

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 8. Fixed and Continuous Beam

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

What is a beam?
A (usually) horizontal structural member that is subjected to a load that tends to bend it.

Types of Beams

Simply supported beam Cantilever beam

Simply Supported Beams Cantilever Beam

Single Overhang Beam

Continuous Beam

Single Overhang Beam with internal hinge

Double Overhang Beam

Fixed Beam Continuous beam

Continuous beams
Beams placed on more than 2 supports are called continuous beams. Continuous beams are used when
the span of the beam is very large, deflection under each rigid support will be equal zero.

Analysis of Continuous Beams

(Using 3-moment equation)

Stability of structure

If the equilibrium and geometry of structure is maintained under the action of forces than the structure

is said to be stable.

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-266
External stability of the structure is provided by the reaction at the supports. Internal stability is

provided by proper design and geometry of the member of the structure.

Statically determinate and indeterminate structures

Beams for which reaction forces and internal forces can be found out from static equilibrium equations

alone are called statically determinate beam.

Example:

Xi = 0, Yi = 0 and Mi = 0 is sufficient to calculate RA & RB.

Beams for which reaction forces and internal forces cannot be found out from static equilibrium

equations alone are called statically indeterminate beam. This type of beam requires deformation

equation in addition to static equilibrium equations to solve for unknown forces.

Example:

P P

RA RB Rc RD

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-267

Advantages of fixed ends or fixed supports

Slope at the ends is zero.
Fixed beams are stiffer, stronger and more stable than SSB.
In case of fixed beams, fixed end moments will reduce the BM in each section.
The maximum deflection is reduced.

Bending moment diagram for fixed beam

Example:

BMD for Continuous beams

BMD for continuous beams can be obtained by superimposing the fixed end moments diagram over the
free bending moment diagram.

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-268

Three - moment Equation for continuous beams OR

Clapeyrons Three Moment Equation

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-269

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Overhanging Beam
IES-1. An overhanging beam ABC is supported at points A and B, as shown in the above figure.
Find the maximum bending moment and the point where it occurs.
[IES-2009]

(a) 6 kN-m at the right support

(b) 6 kN-m at the left support
(c) 4.5 kN-m at the right support
(d) 4.5 kN-m at the midpoint
between the supports

IES-2. A beam of length 4 L is simply supported on two supports with equal overhangs of L on
either sides and carries three equal loads, one each at free ends and the third at the mid-
span. Which one of the following diagrams represents correct distribution of shearing force
on the beam? [IES-2004]

IES-3. A horizontal beam carrying

uniformly distributed load is
supported with equal overhangs
as shown in the given figure
The resultant bending moment at the mid-span shall be zero if a/b is: [IES-2001]
(a) 3/4 (b) 2/3 (c) 1/2 (d) 1/3

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-270

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Overhanging Beam
IAS-1.

If the beam shown in the given figure is to have zero bending moment at its middle point,
the overhang x should be: [IAS-2000]
(a) wl 2 / 4P (b) wl 2 / 6P (c) wl 2 / 8P (d) wl 2 /12P
IAS-2. A beam carrying a uniformly distributed load rests on two supports 'b' apart with equal
overhangs 'a' at each end. The ratio b/a for zero bending moment at mid-span is:[IAS-1997]
1 3
(a) (b) 1 (c) (d) 2
2 2
IAS-3. A beam carries a uniformly distributed load and is supported with two equal overhangs as
shown in figure 'A'. Which one of the following correctly shows the bending moment diagram
of the beam? [IAS 1994]

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-271

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
IES-1. Ans. (a) Taking moment about A
VB 2 = 2 1 6 3
2VB 2 18
VB 10 kN
VA VB 2 6 8kN
VA 8 10 2 kN
Maximum Bending Moment = 6
kN-m at the right support

IES-2. Ans. (d)

They use opposite sign conversions but for correct sign remember S.F & B.M of cantilever is
(-) ive.
IES-3. Ans. (c)
wl
IAS-1. Ans. (c) Rc RD P
2
wl l l l wl 2
Bending moment at mid point (M) = RD P x 0 gives x
2 4 2 2 8P
IAS-2. Ans. (d)

(i) By similarity in the B.M diagram a must be b/2

b22
(ii) By formula M a 0 gives a = b/2
24
IAS-3. Ans. (a)

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Chapter-8 Fixed and Continuous Beam Page-272

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-2006
Question: What are statically determinate and in determinate beams? Illustrate each case through
examples.
Answer: Beams for which reaction forces and internal forces can be found out from static
equilibrium equations alone are called statically determinate beam.
Example:

X i = 0, Yi = 0 and Mi = 0 is sufficient
to calculate R A & RB.
Beams for which reaction forces and internal forces cannot be found out from static
equilibrium equations alone are called statically indeterminate beam. This type of beam
requires deformation equation in addition to static equilibrium equations to solve for
unknown forces.
Example:
P P

RA RB Rc RD

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 9. Torsion

Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

In machinery, the general term shaft refers to a member, usually of circular cross-

section, which supports gears, sprockets, wheels, rotors, etc., and which is subjected to

torsion and to transverse or axial loads acting singly or in combination.

An axle is a rotating/non-rotating member that supports wheels, pulleys, and

carries no torque.

A spindle is a short shaft. Terms such as lineshaft, headshaft, stub shaft, transmission

shaft, countershaft, and flexible shaft are names associated with special usage.

Torsion of circular shafts

1. Equation for shafts subjected to torsion "T"
T G
= = Torsion Equation
R J L
Where J = Polar moment of inertia

= Shear stress induced due to torsion T.

G = Modulus of rigidity

= Angular deflection of shaft

R, L = Shaft radius & length respectively

Assumptions

The bar is acted upon by a pure torque.

The section under consideration is remote from the point of application of the load and from

a change in diameter.

Adjacent cross sections originally plane and parallel remain plane and parallel after

twisting, and any radial line remains straight.

The material obeys Hookes law

Cross-sections rotate as if rigid, i.e. every diameter rotates through the same angle

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

2. Polar moment of inertia

As stated above, the polar second moment of area, J is defined as

J = z0
R
2 r 3 dr

For a solid shaft J = 2

LM r OP
4 R

=
2 R 4 D4
= (6)
N4Q 0
4 32

For a hollow shaft of internal radius r:

Lr O
z
R
4

J =
0
R
2 r dr =
3
2 M P
N4Q
=
2
( R4 r 4 ) =
32
cD 4
d4 h (7)
r

Where D is the external and d is the internal diameter.

d4
Solid shaft J =
32

Hollow shaft, "J = (do 4 di 4 )
32

3. The polar section modulus

Zp= J / c, where c = r = D/2
For a solid circular cross-section, Zp = D3 / 16
For a hollow circular cross-section, Zp = (Do4 - Di4 ) / (16Do)
Then, max = T / Zp

If design shears stress, d is known, required polar section modulus can be calculated from:

Zp = T / d

4. Power Transmission (P)

2 NT
P (in Watt ) =
60
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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
2 NT
P (in hp) = (1 hp = 75 Kgm/sec).
4500
[Where N = rpm; T = Torque in N-m.]

5. Safe diameter of Shaft (d)

Stiffness consideration
T G
=
J L
Shear Stress consideration
T
=
J R
We take higher value of diameter of both cases above for overall safety if other parameters are given.

6. In twisting
16T
Solid shaft, max =
d3
16Td o
Hollow shaft, max =
(d o 4 di 4 )

TL
Diameter of a shaft to have a maximum deflection " " d = 4.9 4
G
[Where T in N-mm, L in mm, G in N/mm2]

7. Comparison of solid and hollow shaft

A Hollow shaft will transmit a greater torque than a solid shaft of the same weight & same
material because the average shear stress in the hollow shaft is smaller than the average
shear stress in the solid shaft

If solid shaft dia = D

( max )holloow shaft 16
=
( max ) solid shaft 15 Hollow shaft, d o = D, di = D
2
Strength comparison (same weight, material, length and max )

Th n2 + 1 External diameter of hollow shaft

= Where, n= [ONGC-2005]
Ts n n 2 1 Internal diameter of hollow shaft

Weight comparison (same Torque, material, length and max )

Wh
=
(
n 2 1 n 2/3 ) Where, n=
External diameter of hollow shaft
[WBPSC-2003]
( )
2/3
Ws n4 1 Internal diameter of hollow shaft

Strain energy comparison (same weight, material, length and max )

Uh n 2 + 1 1
= 2
= 1+ 2
Us n n

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

8. Shaft in series
= 1 + 2
Torque (T) is same in all section
Electrical analogy gives torque(T) = Current (I)

9. Shaft in parallel
1 = 2 and T = T1 + T2

Electrical analogy gives torque(T) = Current (I)

10. Combined Bending and Torsion

In most practical transmission situations shafts which carry torque are also subjected to
bending, if only by virtue of the self-weight of the gears they carry. Many other practical
applications occur where bending and torsion arise simultaneously so that this type of
loading represents one of the major sources of complex stress situations.

In the case of shafts, bending gives rise to tensile stress on one surface and compressive
stress on the opposite surface while torsion gives rise to pure shear throughout the shaft.

For shafts subjected to the simultaneous application of a bending moment M and torque T
the principal stresses set up in the shaft can be shown to be equal to those produced by an
equivalent bending moment, of a certain value Me acting alone.

Figure

Maximum direct stress ( x ) & Shear stress ( ( xy ) in element A

32 M P
x = +
d3 A
16T
xy = 3
d

Principal normal stresses ( 1,2 ) & Maximum shearing stress ( max )

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
2
x
1,2 = x + xy2
2 2
2
1 2
max = = x + ( xy ) 2
2 2

Maximum Principal Stress ( max ) & Maximum shear stress ( max )

16
max = M + M 2 +T2
d3

16
max = M 2 +T2
d 3

Location of Principal plane ( )

1 T
= tan 1
2 M

Equivalent bending moment (Me) & Equivalent torsion (Te).

M + M 2 +T2
Me =
2

Te = M 2 + T 2
Important Note
o Uses of the formulas are limited to cases in which both M & T are known. Under any
other condition Mohrs circle is used.

Safe diameter of shaft (d) on the basis of an allowable working stress.

32M e
o w in tension , d = 3
w

16Te
o w in shear , d= 3
w

11. Shaft subjected to twisting moment only

Figure

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
Normal force ( Fn ) & Tangential for ( Ft ) on inclined plane AB

Fn = [ BC sin + AC cos ]
Ft = [ BC cos - AC sin ]

Normal stress ( n ) & Tangential stress (shear stress) ( t ) on inclined plane AB.

n = sin 2
t = cos 2

Maximum normal & shear stress on AB

( n )max max

0 0 +

45 0

90 0

135 + 0

Important Note
Principal stresses at a point on the surface of the shaft = + , - , 0
i.e 1,2 = sin2

Principal strains

1 = (1 + ); 2 = (1 + ); 3 = 0
E E

Volumetric strain,
v =1 + 2 + 3 = 0

No change in volume for a shaft subjected to pure torque.

12. Torsional Stresses in Non-Circular Cross-section Members

There are some applications in machinery for non-circular cross-section members and shafts
where a regular polygonal cross-section is useful in transmitting torque to a gear or pulley
that can have an axial change in position. Because no key or keyway is needed, the
possibility of a lost key is avoided.

Saint Venant (1855) showed that max in a rectangular b c section bar occurs in the middle

of the longest side b and is of magnitude formula

T T 1.8
max = = 2
3+
bc 2
bc b / c
Where b is the longer side and factor that is function of the ratio b/c.
The angle of twist is given by

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
Tl
=
bc3G
Where is a function of the ratio b/c

Shear stress distribution in different cross-section

Rectangular c/s Elliptical c/s Triangular c/s

13. Torsion of thin walled tube

For a thin walled tube
T
Shear stress, =
2 A0t
sL
Angle of twist, =
2 AO G
[Where S = length of mean centre line, AO = Area enclosed by mean centre line]

Special Cases
o For circular c/s

J = 2 r 3t ; Ao = r 2 ; S = 2 r
[r = radius of mean Centre line and t = wall thickness]
T T .r T
= = =
2 r t
2
J 2 Aot
TL L TL
= = =
GJ Ao JG 2 r 3tG
o For square c/s of length of each side b and thickness t

A0 = b 2
S =4b
o For elliptical c/s a and b are the half axis lengths.
A0 = ab
3
S (a + b) ab
2

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Torsion Equation
GATE-1. A solid circular shaft of 60 mm diameter transmits a torque of 1600 N.m. The value of
maximum shear stress developed is: [GATE-2004]
(a) 37.72 MPa (b) 47.72 MPa (c) 57.72 MPa (d) 67.72 MPa

GATE-2. Maximum shear stress developed on the surface of a solid circular shaft under pure
torsion is 240 MPa. If the shaft diameter is doubled then the maximum shear stress
developed corresponding to the same torque will be: [GATE-2003]
(a) 120 MPa (b) 60 MPa (c) 30 MPa (d) 15 MPa

GATE-3. A steel shaft 'A' of diameter 'd' and length 'l' is subjected to a torque T Another shaft 'B'
made of aluminium of the same diameter 'd' and length 0.5 l is also subjected to the same
torque 'T'. The shear modulus of steel is 2.5 times the shear modulus of aluminium. The
shear stress in the steel shaft is 100 MPa. The shear stress in the aluminium shaft, in
MPa, is: [GATE-2000]
(a) 40 (b) 50 (c) 100 (d) 250

GATE-4. For a circular shaft of diameter d subjected to torque T, the maximum value of the shear
stress is: [GATE-2006]
64T 32T 16T 8T
(a) (b) (c) (d)
d3 d3 d3 d3

GATE-4a. A torque T is applied at L L/2

the free end of a
T
stopped rod of circular
cross-sections as shown 2d
d
in the figure. The shear
modulus of the material
of the rod is G. The
expression for d to
produce an angular
twist at the free end [GATE-2011]
is
1 1 1 1
32 T L 4 18 T L 4 16 T L 4 2 T L 4
(a) (b) (c) (d)
G G G G

Power Transmitted by Shaft

GATE-5. The diameter of shaft A is twice the diameter or shaft B and both are made of the same
material. Assuming both the shafts to rotate at the same speed, the maximum power
transmitted by B is: [IES-2001; GATE-1994]
(a) The same as that of A (b) Half of A (c) 1/8th of A (d) 1/4th of A

Combined Bending and Torsion

GATE-6. A solid shaft can resist a bending moment of 3.0 kNm and a twisting moment of 4.0 kNm
together, then the maximum torque that can be applied is: [GATE-1996]

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
(a) 7.0 kNm (b) 3.5 kNm (c)4.5 kNm (d) 5.0 kNm

Comparison of Solid and Hollow Shafts

GATE-7. The outside diameter of a hollow shaft is twice its inside diameter. The ratio of its torque
carrying capacity to that of a solid shaft of the same material and the same outside
diameter is: [GATE-1993; IES-2001]
15 3 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
16 4 2 16

Shafts in Series
GATE-8. A torque of 10 Nm is transmitted through a stepped shaft as shown in figure. The
torsional stiffness of individual sections of lengths MN, NO and OP are 20 Nm/rad, 30
Nm/rad and 60 Nm/rad respectively. The angular deflection between the ends M and P of
the shaft is: [GATE-2004]

(a) 0.5 rad (b) 1.0 rad (c) 5.0 rad (d) 10.0 rad

Shafts in Parallel
GATE-9. The two shafts AB and BC, of equal length
and diameters d and 2d, are made of the
same material. They are joined at B
through a shaft coupling, while the ends A
and C are built-in (cantilevered). A
twisting moment T is applied to the
coupling. If TA and TC represent the
twisting moments at the ends A and C,
respectively, then [GATE-2005]
(a) TC = TA (b) TC =8 TA (c) TC =16 TA (d) TA=16 TC

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Torsion Equation
IES-1. Consider the following statements: [IES- 2008]
Maximum shear stress induced in a power transmitting shaft is:
1. Directly proportional to torque being transmitted.
2. Inversely proportional to the cube of its diameter.
3. Directly proportional to its polar moment of inertia.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 2 only

IES-2. A solid shaft transmits a torque T. The allowable shearing stress is . What is the
diameter of the shaft? [IES-2008]
16T 32T 16T T
(a) 3 (b) 3 (c) 3 (d) 3

IES-2(i). If a solid circular shaft of steel 2 cm in diameter is subjected to a permissible shear stress
10 kN/cm2, then the value of the twisting moment (T r ) will be
-cm -cm -cm -cm [IES-2012]

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

IES-3. Maximum shear stress developed on the surface of a solid circular shaft under pure
torsion is 240 MPa. If the shaft diameter is doubled, then what is the maximum shear
stress developed corresponding to the same torque? [IES-2009]
(a) 120 MPa (b) 60 MPa (c) 30 MPa (d) 15 MPa

IES-4. The diameter of a shaft is increased from 30 mm to 60 mm, all other conditions
remaining unchanged. How many times is its torque carrying capacity increased?[IES-1995; 2004]
(a) 2 times (b) 4 times (c) 8 times (d) 16 times

IES-5. A circular shaft subjected to twisting moment results in maximum shear stress of 60
MPa. Then the maximum compressive stress in the material is: [IES-2003]
(a) 30 MPa (b) 60 MPa (c) 90 MPa (d) 120 MPa

IES-5(i). The boring bar of a boring machine is 25 mm in diameter. During operation, the bar gets
twisted though 0.01 radians and is subjected to a shear stress of 42 N/mm 2. The length of
the bar is (Taking G = 0.84 105 N/mm2) [IES-2012]
(a) 500 mm (b) 250 mm (c) 625 mm (d) 375 mm

IES-5(ii). The magnitude of stress induced in a shaft due to applied torque varies
(a) From maximum at the centre to zero at the circumference
(b) From zero at the centre to maximum at the circumference [IES-2012]
(c) From maximum at the centre to minimum but not zero at the circumference
(d) From minimum but not zero at the centre, to maximum at the circumference

IES-6. Angle of twist of a shaft of diameter d is inversely proportional to [IES-2000]

(a) d (b) d2 (c) d3 (d) d4

IES-6a A solid steel shaft of diameter d and length l is subjected to twisting moment T.
Another shaft B of brass having same diameter d, but length l/2 is also subjected to
the same moment. If shear modulus of steel is two times that of brass, the ratio of
the angular twist of steel to that of brass shaft is:
(a) 1:2 (b) 1:1 (c) 2:1 (d) 4:1 [IES-2011]

IES-7. A solid circular shaft is subjected to pure torsion. The ratio of maximum shear to
maximum normal stress at any point would be: [IES-1999]
(a) 1 : 1 (b) 1: 2 (c) 2: 1 (d) 2: 3

IES-8. Assertion (A): In a composite shaft having two concentric shafts of different materials,
the torque shared by each shaft is directly proportional to its polar moment of inertia.[IES-1999]
Reason (R): In a composite shaft having concentric shafts of different materials, the
angle of twist for each shaft depends upon its polar moment of inertia.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-9. A shaft is subjected to torsion as shown. [IES-2002]

Which of the following figures represents the shear stress on the element LMNOPQRS ?

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

IES-10. A round shaft of diameter 'd' and length

'l' fixed at both ends 'A' and 'B' is
subjected to a twisting moment 'T at 'C',
at a distance of 1/4 from A (see figure).
The torsional stresses in the parts AC
and CB will be:
(a) Equal
(b) In the ratio 1:3
(c) In the ratio 3 :1
(d) Indeterminate [IES-1997]

Hollow Circular Shafts

IES-11. One-half length of 50 mm diameter steel rod is solid while the remaining half is hollow
having a bore of 25 mm. The rod is subjected to equal and opposite torque at its ends. If
the maximum shear stress in solid portion is or, the maximum shear stress in the
hollow portion is: [IES-2003]
15 4 16
(a) (b) (c) (d)
16 3 15

Power Transmitted by Shaft

IES-12. In power transmission shafts, if the polar moment of inertia of a shaft is doubled, then
what is the torque required to produce the same angle of twist?
[IES-2006]
(a) 1/4 of the original value (b) 1/2 of the original value
(c) Same as the original value (d) Double the original value

IES-13. While transmitting the same power by a shaft, if its speed is doubled, what should be its
new diameter if the maximum shear stress induced in the shaft remains same?[IES-2006]
1 1
(a) of the original diameter (b) of the original diameter
2 2
1
(c) 2 of the original diameter (d) of the original diameter
2 3
1

IES-14. For a power transmission shaft transmitting power P at N rpm, its diameter is
proportional to: [IES-2005]
1/3 1/2 2/3
P P P P
(a) (b) (c) (d)
N N N N

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
IES-15. A shaft can safely transmit 90 kW while rotating at a given speed. If this shaft is
replaced by a shaft of diameter double of the previous one and rotated at half the speed
of the previous, the power that can be transmitted by the new shaft is: [IES-2002]
(a) 90 kW (b) 180 kW (c) 360 kW (d) 720 kW

IES-16. The diameter of shaft A is twice the diameter or shaft B and both are made of the same
material. Assuming both the shafts to rotate at the same speed, the maximum power
transmitted by B is: [IES-2001; GATE-1994]
(a) The same as that of A (b) Half of A (c) 1/8th of A (d) 1/4th of A

IES-17. When a shaft transmits power through gears, the shaft experiences [IES-1997]
(a) Torsional stresses alone
(b) Bending stresses alone
(c) Constant bending and varying torsional stresses
(d) Varying bending and constant torsional stresses

Combined Bending and Torsion

IES-18. The equivalent bending moment under combined action of bending moment M and
torque T is: [IES-1996; 2008; IAS-1996]
1
(a) M2 T2 (b) M M 2 T 2
2
1 1
(c)
2
M T (d) M T
4
2 2

IES-19. A solid circular shaft is subjected to a bending moment M and twisting moment T. What
is the equivalent twisting moment Te which will produce the same maximum shear
stress as the above combination? [IES-1992; 2007]
(a) M2 + T2 (b) M + T (c) M 2 T 2 (d) M T

IES-20. A shaft is subjected to fluctuating loads for which the normal torque (T) and bending
moment (M) are 1000 N-m and 500 N-m respectively. If the combined shock and fatigue
factor for bending is 1.5 and combined shock and fatigue factor for torsion is 2, then the
equivalent twisting moment for the shaft is:
[IES-1994]
(a) 2000N-m (b) 2050N-m (c) 2100N-m (d) 2136 N-m

IES-21. A member is subjected to the combined action of bending moment 400 Nm and torque
300 Nm. What respectively are the equivalent bending moment and equivalent torque?[IES-1994; 20
(a) 450 Nm and 500 Nm (b) 900 Nm and 350 Nm
(c) 900 Nm and 500 Nm (d) 400 Nm and 500 Nm

IES-22. A shaft was initially subjected to bending moment and then was subjected to torsion. If
the magnitude of bending moment is found to be the same as that of the torque, then the
ratio of maximum bending stress to shear stress would be:
[IES-1993]
(a) 0.25 (b) 0.50 (c) 2.0 (d) 4.0

IES-23. A shaft is subjected to simultaneous action of a torque T, bending moment M and an

axial thrust F. Which one of the following statements is correct for this situation?[IES-2004]
(a) One extreme end of the vertical diametral fibre is subjected to maximum
compressive stress only
(b) The opposite extreme end of the vertical diametral fibre is subjected to
tensile/compressive stress only

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
(c) Every point on the surface of the shaft is subjected to maximum shear stress only
(d) Axial longitudinal fibre of the shaft is subjected to compressive stress only

IES-24. For obtaining the maximum

shear stress induced in
the shaft shown in the
given figure, the torque
should be equal to
(a) T (b) Wl T
1
wL
2 2

(c) Wl
2

2
1
wL2
2
2
(d) Wl T 2

2
[IES-1999]

IES-25. Bending moment M and torque is applied on a solid circular shaft. If the maximum
bending stress equals to maximum shear stress developed, them M is equal to: [IES-1992]
T
(a) (b) T (c) 2T (d) 4T
2

IES-26. A circular shaft is subjected to the combined action of bending, twisting and direct axial
loading. The maximum bending stress , maximum shearing force 3 and a uniform
axial stress (compressive) are produced. The maximum compressive normal stress
produced in the shaft will be: [IES-1998]
(a) 3 (b) 2 (c) (d) Zero

IES-27. Which one of the following statements is correct? Shafts used in heavy duty speed
reducers are generally subjected to: [IES-2004]
(a) Bending stress only
(b) Shearing stress only
(c) Combined bending and shearing stresses
(d) Bending, shearing and axial thrust simultaneously

Comparison of Solid and Hollow Shafts

IES-28. The ratio of torque carrying capacity of a solid shaft to that of a hollow shaft is given by:[IES-2008]

1
(a) 1 K 4 (b) 1 K 4 (c)K 4 (d)1/ K 4
Di
Where K = ; Di = Inside diameter of hollow shaft and D o = Outside diameter of hollow
Do
shaft. Shaft material is the same.

IES-29. A hollow shaft of outer dia 40 mm and inner dia of 20 mm is to be replaced by a solid
shaft to transmit the same torque at the same maximum stress. What should be the
diameter of the solid shaft? [IES 2007]
(a) 30 mm (b) 35 mm
(c) 10 (60) mm
1/3
(d) 10 (20)1/3 mm

IES-30. The diameter of a solid shaft is D. The inside and outside diameters of a hollow shaft of
D 2D
same material and length are and respectively. What is the ratio of the weight
3 3
of the hollow shaft to that of the solid shaft? [IES 2007]

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
(a) 1:1 (b) 1: 3 (c) 1:2 (d) 1:3

IES-31. What is the maximum torque transmitted by a hollow shaft of external radius R and
internal radius r? [IES-2006]
R4 r 4
(a) R 3
r 3
f s (b) R 4
r 4
f s (c) R 4
r 4
f s (d)
32
fs
16 2R 8R R
( f s = maximum shear stress in the shaft material)

IES-32. A hollow shaft of the same cross-sectional area and material as that of a solid shaft
transmits: [IES-2005]
(a) Same torque (b) Lesser torque
(c) More torque (d) Cannot be predicted without more data

IES-33. The outside diameter of a hollow shaft is twice its inside diameter. The ratio of its torque
carrying capacity to that of a solid shaft of the same material and the same outside
diameter is: [GATE-1993; IES-2001]
15 3 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
16 4 2 16

IES-34. Two hollow shafts of the same material have the same length and outside diameter.
Shaft 1 has internal diameter equal to one-third of the outer diameter and shaft 2 has
internal diameter equal to half of the outer diameter. If both the shafts are subjected to
the same torque, the ratio of their twists 1 / 2 will be equal to: [IES-1998]
(a) 16/81 (b) 8/27 (c) 19/27 (d) 243/256

IES-35. Maximum shear stress in a solid shaft of diameter D and length L twisted through an
angle is . A hollow shaft of same material and length having outside and inside
diameters of D and D/2 respectively is also twisted through the same angle of twist .
The value of maximum shear stress in the hollow shaft will be: [IES-1994; 1997]
16 8 4
a b c d
15 7 3

IES-36. A solid shaft of diameter 'D' carries a twisting moment that develops maximum shear
stress . If the shaft is replaced by a hollow one of outside diameter 'D' and inside
diameter D/2, then the maximum shear stress will be: [IES-1994]
(a) 1.067 (b) 1.143 (c) 1.333 (d) 2

IES-37. A solid shaft of diameter 100 mm, length 1000 mm is subjected to a twisting moment 'T
The maximum shear stress developed in the shaft is 60 N/mm 2. A hole of 50 mm
diameter is now drilled throughout the length of the shaft. To develop a maximum shear
stress of 60 N/mm2 in the hollow shaft, the torque 'T must be reduced by:[IES-1998, 2012]
(a) T/4 (b) T/8 (c) T/12 (d)T/16

IES-38. Assertion (A): A hollow shaft will transmit a greater torque than a solid shaft of the
same weight and same material. [IES-1994]
Reason (R): The average shear stress in the hollow shaft is smaller than the average
shear stress in the solid shaft.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-39. A hollow shaft is subjected to torsion. The shear stress variation in the shaft along the
radius is given by: [IES-1996]

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

Shafts in Series
IES-40. What is the total angle of
twist of the stepped shaft
subject to torque T shown
in figure given above?
16Tl 38Tl
(a) (b)
Gd 4 Gd 4
64Tl 66Tl
(c) (d)
Gd 4 Gd 4
[IES-2005]

Shafts in Parallel
IES-41. For the two shafts connected in parallel, find which statement is true?
(a) Torque in each shaft is the same [IES-1992, 2011]
(b) Shear stress in each shaft is the same
(c) Angle of twist of each shaft is the same
(d) Torsional stiffness of each shaft is the same

IES-42. A circular section rod ABC is fixed at ends A and C. It is subjected to torque T at B. AB =
BC = L and the polar moment of inertia of portions AB and BC are 2 J and J
respectively. If G is the modulus of rigidity, what is the angle of twist at point B?[IES-2005]
TL TL TL 2TL
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3GJ 2GJ GJ GJ
IES-43. A solid circular rod AB of diameter D and length L is fixed at both ends. A torque T is
applied at a section X such that AX = L/4 and BX = 3L/4. What is the maximum shear
stress developed in the rod? [IES-2004]
16T 12T 8T 4T
(a) (b) (c) (d)
D3 D3 D3 D3

IES-44. Two shafts are shown in the

above figure. These two
shafts will be torsionally
equivalent to each other if
their
(a) Polar moment of inertias
are the same
(b) Total angle of twists are
the same
(c) Lengths are the same
(d) Strain energies are the
[IES-1998]

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
same

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Torsion Equation
IAS-1. Assertion (A): In theory of torsion, shearing strains increase radically away from the
longitudinal axis of the bar. [IAS-2001]
Reason (R): Plane transverse sections before loading remain plane after the torque is
applied.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-2. The shear stress at a point in a shaft subjected to a torque is: [IAS-1995]
(a) Directly proportional to the polar moment of inertia and to the distance of the point
form the axis
(b) Directly proportional to the applied torque and inversely proportional to the polar
moment of inertia.
(c) Directly proportional to the applied torque and polar moment of inertia
(d) inversely proportional to the applied torque and the polar moment of inertia

IAS-3. If two shafts of the same length, one of which is hollow, transmit equal torque and have
equal maximum stress, then they should have equal. [IAS-1994]
(a) Polar moment of inertia (b) Polar modulus of section
(c) Polar moment of inertia (d) Angle of twist

Hollow Circular Shafts

IAS-4. A hollow circular shaft having outside diameter 'D' and inside diameter d subjected to a
constant twisting moment 'T' along its length. If the maximum shear stress produced in
the shaft is s s then the twisting moment 'T' is given by: [IAS-1999]
D4 d 4 D4 d 4 D4 d 4 D4 d 4
(a) s (b) s (c) s (d) s
8 D4 16 D4 32 D4 64 D4

Torsional Rigidity
IAS-5. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the
lists: [IAS-1996]
List-I (Mechanical Properties) List-II ( Characteristics)
A. Torsional rigidity 1. Product of young's modulus and second
moment of area about the plane of
bending
B. Modulus of resilience 2. Strain energy per unit volume
C. Bauschinger effect 3. Torque unit angle of twist
D. Flexural rigidity 4. Loss of mechanical energy due to local
yielding
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 3 4 2 (b) 3 2 4 1
(c) 2 4 1 3 (d) 3 1 4 2

IAS-6. Assertion (A): Angle of twist per unit length of a uniform diameter shaft depends upon
its torsional rigidity. [IAS-2004]
Reason (R): The shafts are subjected to torque only.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Combined Bending and Torsion

IAS-7. A shaft is subjected to a bending moment M = 400 N.m alld torque T = 300 N.m The
equivalent bending moment is: [IAS-2002]
(a) 900 N.m (b) 700 N.m (c) 500 N.m (d) 450 N.m

Comparison of Solid and Hollow Shafts

IAS-8. A hollow shaft of length L is fixed at its both ends. It is subjected to torque T at a
L
distance of from one end. What is the reaction torque at the other end of the shaft?[IAS-2007]
3
2T T T T
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 2 3 4

IAS-9. A solid shaft of diameter d is replaced by a hollow shaft of the same material and length.
2d d
The outside diameter of hollow shaft while the inside diameter is . What is the
3 3
ratio of the torsional stiffness of the hollow shaft to that of the solid shaft? [IAS-2007]
2 3 5
(a) (b) (c) (d) 2
3 5 3

IAS-10. Two steel shafts, one solid of diameter D and the other hollow of outside diameter D and
inside diameter D/2, are twisted to the same angle of twist per unit length. The ratio of
maximum shear stress in solid shaft to that in the hollow shaft is: [IAS-1998]
4 8 16
(a) (b) (c) (d)
9 7 15

Shafts in Series
IAS-11. Two shafts having the same length and material are joined in series. If the ratio of the
diameter of the first shaft to that of the second shaft is 2, then the ratio of the angle of
twist of the first shaft to that of the second shaft is:
[IAS-1995; 2003]
(a) 16 (b) 8 (c) 4 (d) 2

IAS-12. A circular shaft fixed at A has diameter D for half of its length and diameter D/2 over the
other half. What is the rotation of C relative of B if the rotation of B relative to A is 0.1
radian? [IAS-1994]
(a) 0.4 radian (b) 0.8 radian (c) 1.6 radian (d) 3.2 radian

(T, L and C remaining same in both cases)

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
Shafts in Parallel
IAS-13. A stepped solid circular shaft shown in the given figure is built-in at its ends and is
subjected to a torque To at the shoulder section. The ratio of reactive torque T1 and T2 at
the ends is (J1 and J2 are polar moments of inertia):
J 2 l2 J 2 l1
(a) (b)
J1 l1 J 1 l2
J l J l
(c) 1 2 (d) 1 1
J 2 l1 J 2 l2

[IAS-2001]
IAS-14. Steel shaft and brass shaft of same length and diameter are connected by a flange
coupling. The assembly is rigidity held at its ends and is twisted by a torque through the
coupling. Modulus of rigidity of steel is twice that of brass. If torque of the steel shaft is
500 Nm, then the value of the torque in brass shaft will be: [IAS-2001]
(a) 250 Nm (b) 354 Nm (c) 500 Nm (d) 708 Nm

IAS-15. A steel shaft with bult-in ends is subjected to the action of a torque Mt applied at an
intermediate cross-section 'mn' as shown in the given figure. [IAS-1997]

Assertion (A): The magnitude of the twisting moment to which the portion BC is
M ta
subjected is
ab
Reason(R): For geometric compatibility, angle of twist at 'mn' is the same for the portions
AB and BC.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-16. A steel shaft of outside diameter 100 mm is solid over one half of its length and hollow
over the other half. Inside diameter of hollow portion is 50 mm. The shaft if held rigidly
at two ends and a pulley is mounted at its midsection i.e., at the junction of solid and
hollow portions. The shaft is twisted by applying torque on the pulley. If the torque
carried by the solid portion of the shaft is 16000kg-m, then the torque carried by the
hollow portion of the shaft will be:
[IAS-1997]
(a) 16000 kg-m (b) 15000 kg-m (c) 14000 kg-m (d) 12000 kg-m

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OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
16T
GATE-1. Ans. (a)
d3
16T 16T 16T 240
GATE-2. Ans. (c) , 240 if diameter doubled d 2d, then 30MPa
d d 2d
3 3 3
8

16T
GATE-3. Ans. (c) as T & d both are same is same
d3
GATE-4. Ans. (c)
GATE-4a. Ans. (b) Angular twist at the L L/2
free end
1 2
T
L
T
T L 2 1 d 2
2d

G (2 d )4 G ( d )4
32 32
2T L 16T L 18T L

G d 4
G d 4 G d 4
1
18T L 4
d
G
2 N 16T d3
GATE-5. Ans. (c) Power, P T and or T
60 d3 16
d3 2 N
or P or P d3
16 60
GATE-6. Ans. (d) Equivalent torque Te M2 T2 32 42 5kNm
T G J
GATE-7. Ans. (a) or T if is const. T J
J L R R
4 D
4

D
Th J 32 2 15
h
T J 4 16
D
32
TL
GATE-8. Ans. (b) We know that or T k. [let k tortional stiffness]
GJ
T T T 10 10 10
MN NO OP MN NO OP 1.0 rad
kMN kNO k OP 20 30 60
TAL A TL TA TC TC
GATE-9. Ans. (c) AB BC or C C or or TA
d 2d
4 4
GA JA GC JC 16
32 32

IES
T r 16T
IES-1. Ans. (d)
J d3
IES-2. Ans. (a)
IES-2(i). Ans. (d)
16T
IES-3. Ans. (c) Maximum shear stress = = 240 MPa =
d3

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
Maximum shear stress developed when diameter is doubled
16 1 16T 240
30MPa
2d
3
8 d3 8 8
16T d3
IES-4. Ans. (c) or T for same material const.
d3 16
3 3
T2 d2 60
T d3 or 8
T1 d1 30
IES-5. Ans. (b)
IES-5(i). Ans. (b)
IES-5(ii). Ans. (b)
IES-6. Ans. (d)
IES-6a Ans. (b)
16T 32T
IES-7. Ans. (a) Shear stress and normal stress
d 3
d3
Ratio of shear stress and normal stress = 1: 2
IES-8. Ans. (c)
IES-9. Ans. (d)
T G GR 1
IES-10. Ans. (c) or
J R L L L
T J
IES-11. Ans. (d) or T
J r r
J J D
or s h h ; rs rh
rs rh 2

D4
Js 32 1 1 16
or h
d 25
15
4 4
Jh D4 d 4
32 1 1
D 50
IES-12. Ans. (d)
T G T.L
or Q if is const. T J if J is doubled then T is also doubled.
J L R G.J
IES-13. Ans. (d) Power (P) torque T angular speed
1T 1
if P is const.T if or T T / 2
T 2
16T 16 T / 2 d 1
3 or 3
d d
3
d
2
2 N 16T d3
IES-14. Ans. (a) Power, P T and or T
60 d3 16
1/3
d32 N 480 P P
or P or d3 2 or d
16 60 JN N
IES-15. Ans. (c)
2 N 16T d3
IES-16. Ans. (c) Power, P T and or T
60 d3
16
d 2 N
3
or P or P d3
16 60
IES-17. Ans. (d)
IES-18. Ans. (b)
IES-19. Ans. (c) Te = M2 T2

Teq 1.5 500 2 1000 2136 Nm

2 2
IES-20. Ans. (d)

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
2 2 2 2
M M T 400 400 300
IES-21. Ans. (a) Equivalent Bending Moment Me 450N.m
2 2
Equivalent torque Te M2 T2 4002 3002 500N.m
IES-22. Ans. (c) Use equivalent bending moment formula,
1st case: Equivalent bending moment (Me) = M
0 02 T 2 T
2nd case: Equivalent bending moment (Me) =
2 2
IES-23. Ans. (a)
wL2
IES-24. Ans. (d) Bending Moment, M = Wl
2
32 M 16T
IES-25. Ans. (a) and
d 3
d3
IES-26. Ans. (a) Maximum normal stress = bending stress + axial stress () = 2
We have to take maximum bending stress is (compressive)

b
2

The maximum compressive normal stress = b xy2

2 2
2 2
2

2
3 3
2 2
IES-27. Ans. (c)
IES-28. Ans. (b) should be same for both hollow and solid shaft
1
Ts Di
4
Ts Th Ts D4
4 o 4
1
4
D
32 o

32 o

D4 Di4 Th Do Di Th Do

Ts

1
1 k4
Th
IES-29. Ans. (c) Section modules will be same

(404 204 )
JH J 64 d4
= s or =
RH Rs 40 64 d
2
2
or, d3 = (10)3 60 or
3
d = 10 60 mm
4D2
D2
L g
WH 4 3 3
IES-30. Ans. (a) = 1
WS 2
D L g
4

T fs J
R4 r 4
IES-31. Ans. (b)
J R
or T fs
R
2
R
fs
2R
R4 r 4 .fs .
TH n2 1 D
IES-32. Ans. (c) , Where n H
TS n n2 1 dH
T G J
IES-33. Ans. (a) or T if is const. T J
J L R R
D
4
4
D
Th J 32 2 15
h
T J 4 16
D
32

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
4
d14 1
d

IES-34. Ans. (d) Q
1 Q
1 2 243
4
d14 1
J Q2 d 256

3
T G G.R.
IES-35. Ans. (d) or if is const. R and outer diameter is same in both
J L R L
the cases.
Note: Required torque will be different.
T G TR 1
IES-36. Ans. (a) or if T is const.
J L R J J
h J D 4
16
1.06666
Jh D
4
15
D4
2
Tr 16T T 32(d / 2) T 15
IES-37. Ans. (d) s 4 or
J d d d / 2
3 4
T 16
1
Reduction
16
IES-38. Ans. (a)
IES-39. Ans. (c)
T 2l Tl Tl 66Tl
IES-40. Ans. (d) 1 2
d4 G 2d 4 Gd4
64 2 Gd4
G.
32 32
IES-41. Ans. (c)
IES-42. Ans. (a) AB BC
TABL TBC.L
or or TAB 2TBC
G.2J G.J
TAB TBC T or TBC T / 3
T L TL
or QB Q AB .
3 GJ 3GJ
IES-43. Ans. (b) AX XB & TA TB T
3L
TA.L / 4 TB 4
or
GJ GJ
3T
or TA 3TB or TA ,
4
3
16 T
16TA 4 12T
max
D3 D3
4
D3
IES-44. Ans. (b)

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (b)
T
IAS-2. Ans. (b)
J R
T J
IAS-3. Ans. (b) Here T & are same, so should be same i.e. polar modulus of section will
J R R
be same.

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

T G J
s 4

32
D d4 D 4
d4
IAS-4. Ans. (b) gives T s
J L R R D 16 D
2
IAS-5. Ans. (b)
IAS-6. Ans. (c)
M M 2 T 2 400 400 2 300 2
IAS-7. Ans. (d) Me 450 Nm
2 2
IAS-8. Ans. (c)

2d d
4 4

T GJ K H 32 3 3 5
IAS-9. Ans. (c) Torsional stiffness = or
4

L KS .d 3
32
T G G R
IAS-10. Ans. (d) or as outside diameter of both the shaft is D so is
J R L L
same for both the cases.
1 1
IAS-11. Ans. (a) Angle of twist is proportional to
J d4
T G 1 1 d 4
IAS-12. Ans. (c) or or 4 J
J L J d 32
d 4
Here or 1.6 radian.
0.1 d / 24
T1l1 T2l2 T1 J1 l2
IAS-13. Ans. (c) 1 2 or or
GJ1 GJ 2 T2 J 2 l1
IAS-14. Ans. (a)
Ts ls Tl Ts Tb Tb Gb 1 Ts
1 2 or bb or or or Tb 250 Nm
Gs J s Gb J b Gs Gb Ts Gs 2 2
IAS-15. Ans. (a)

TsL THL JH 32
1004 504
IAS-16. Ans.(b) s H or or TH TS 16000 15000kgm
GJs GJH Js
32
100 4

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES 2010
Q. A hollow steel rod 200 mm long is to be used as torsional spring. The ratio of inside to
outside diameter is 1 : 2. The required stiffness of this spring is 100 N.m /degree.
Determine the outside diameter of the rod.
Value of G is 8 10 4 N/mm 2 . [10 Marks]

Ans. Length of a hollow steel rod = 200mm

Ratio of inside to outside diameter = 1 : 2
Stiffness of torsional spring = 100 Nm /degree. = 5729.578 N m/rad
Rigidity of modulus (G) = 8 10 N / m m
4 2

Find outside diameter of rod : -

We know that
T G.
= Where T = Torque
J L
T N M
S tiffn e s s
rad
J = polar moment
T G.J
Stiffness = = = twist angle in rad
L
L = length of rod.
d 2 2d 1

J =
32

d 42 - d 14

J =
32

16 d 14 - d 14 d1
d2
=
1
2

J = d 14 15
32
8 10 4 10 6 N / m 2
5729.578 Nm / r a d = d 14 15
0.2 32
5729.578 .2 32
= d 14
8 10 15
10

d 1 = 9.93 10 3 m.
d 1 = 9.93 m m.
d 2 = 2 9.93 = 19.86 m m An s.

Conventional Question GATE - 1998

Question: A component used in the Mars pathfinder can be idealized as a circular bar clamped at
its ends. The bar should withstand a torque of 1000 Nm. The component is assembled
on earth when the temperature is 30C. Temperature on Mars at the site of landing is -
70C. The material of the bar has an allowable shear stress of 300 MPa and its young's
modulus is 200 GPa. Design the diameter of the bar taking a factor of safety of 1.5 and
assuming a coefficient of thermal expansion for the material of the bar as 12 106/C.
Answer: Given:

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
Tmax 1000Nm; tE 30 C; t m 700 C;
0
allowable 300MPa
E 200GPa; F.O.S. 1.5; 12 10 / C 6 0

Diameter of the bar,D :

Change in length, L L t,where L original length,m.
Change in lengthat Mars L 12 10 6 30 70 12 10 4 L meters
Change in length 12 10 4 L
Linear strain 12 10 4
original length L
2
a axial stress E linear strain 200 109 12 10 4 2.4 108 N / m
From max imum shear stress equation,we have
16T 2 a 2
max 3

D 2
allowable
300
where, max 200MPa
F.O.S 1.5
Substituting the values, we get
2
16 1000

2
4 1016 1.2 10
8

D 3

16 1000
or 1.6 108
D3
1/3
16 1000
or D 8
0.03169 m 31.69 mm
1.6 10

Conventional Question IES-2009

Q. In a torsion test, the specimen is a hollow shaft with 50 mm external and 30 mm internal
diameter. An applied torque of 1.6 kN-m is found to produce an angular twist of 0.4
measured on a length of 0.2 m of the shaft. The Youngs modulus of elasticity obtained
from a tensile test has been found to be 200 GPa. Find the values of
(i) Modulus of rigidity.
(ii) Poissons ratio. [10-Marks]
Ans. We have
T G
......... (i)
J r L
Where J = polar moment of inertia

J =

32

D4 d4


32

50 4 30 4 10 12
5.338 10 7
T 1.6 k N m 1.6 10 3 N -m
= 0.4
l = 0.2 m
E = 200 10 9 N/m 2
T G
F ro m e qu a tio n (i)
J L

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals

G 0.4
1.6 10 3 180

5.338 10 7 0.2
1.6 0.2 10 3 180
G=
0.4 5.338 10 7
85.92 GP a
We also have
E = 2 G (1 + v )
200 = 2 85.92 1 v
1 + v = 1.164
v = 0.164

Conventional Question IAS - 1996

Question: A solid circular uniformly tapered shaft of length I, with a small angle of taper is
subjected to a torque T. The diameter at the two ends of the shaft are D and 1.2 D.
Determine the error introduced of its angular twist for a given length is determined on
the uniform mean diameter of the shaft.
Answer: For shaft of tapering's section, we have
2TL R12 R1R 2 R 22 32TL D12 D1D2 D22

3G R13R 32 3G D13D32
32TL 1.2 1.2 1 1
2 2

D1 D and D2 1.2D
3G D4
3 3
1.2 1
32TL
2.1065
3G D4
1.2D D
Now, Davg 1.1D
2
32TL 3 1.1D 32TL
2
3 32TL
' 2.049
3G 1.1D 3G 1.2 .D
6 4 4 3G D4

' 2.1065 2.049
Error 0.0273 or 2.73%
2.1065

Conventional Question ESE-2008

Question: A hollow shaft and a solid shaft construction of the same material have the same
length and the same outside radius. The inside radius of the hollow shaft is 0.6 times
of the outside radius. Both the shafts are subjected to the same torque.
(i) What is the ratio of maximum shear stress in the hollow shaft to that of solid
shaft?
(ii) What is the ratio of angle of twist in the hollow shaft to that of solid shaft?
T t G
Solution: Using = =
J R L
Inside radius (r)
Given, = 0.6 and Th = Ts = T
Out side (R)
T .R T .R
(i) t = gives ; For hollow shaft (t h ) =
J p 4
2
(R - r 4 )

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
T .R
and for solid shaft ( s)=
4
.R
2
n R4 1 1
Therefore = 4 = 4
= = 1.15
s R r 4 r 1 0.64
1
R
TL T .L T .L
(ii) = gives h = and s =
GJ
G. (R 4 r 4 ) G. .R 4
2 2
h R4 1 1
Therefore = 4 = 4
= = 1.15
s R r 4 r 1 0.64
1
R
Conventional Question ESE-2006:
Question: Two hollow shafts of same diameter are used to transmit same power. One
shaft is rotating at 1000 rpm while the other at 1200 rpm. What will be the
nature and magnitude of the stress on the surfaces of these shafts? Will it be
the same in two cases of different? Justify your answer.
Answer: We know power transmitted (P) = Torque (T) rotation speed ( )
T .R PR P. D
And shear stress ( ) = = = 2
J J 2 N
( D 4 d 4 )

60 32

1
Therefore as P, D and d are constant.
N
So the shaft rotating at 1000 rpm will experience greater stress then 1200 rpm shaft.

Conventional Question ESE-2002

Question: A 5 cm diameter solid shaft is welded to a flat plate by 1 cm filled weld. What
will be the maximum torque that the welded joint can sustain if the
permissible shear stress in the weld material is not to exceed 8 kN/cm2?
Deduce the expression for the shear stress at the throat from the basic
theory.
Answer: Consider a circular shaft connected to a
plate by means of a fillet joint as shown in
figure. If the shaft is subjected to a torque,
shear stress develops in the weld.
Assuming that the weld thickness is very
small compared to the diameter of the
shaft, the maximum shear stress occurs in
the throat area. Thus, for a given torque
the maximum shear stress in the weld is
d
T + t
2
max =
J
Where T = Torque applied.
d = outer diameter of the shaft
t = throat thickness
J = polar moment of area of the throat
section

(d + 2t ) d 4 = d 3 t
4
=
32 4

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
d
T
[As t <<d] then t max = 2 = 2T
d t td
p 3 2

4
Given
d = 5 cm = 0.05 m & t = 1cm = 0.1 m
8000N
t max = 8 kN / cm 2 = - 4 2
= 80MPa = 80 106 N / m 2
(10 )m
d 2t t max 0.052 0.01 80 106
\ T= = = 3.142 kNm
2 2
Conventional Question ESE-2000
Question: The ratio of inside to outside diameter of a hollow shaft is 0.6. If there is a solid shaft
with same torsional strength, what is the ratio of the outside diameter of hollow shaft
to the diameter of the equivalent solid shaft.
Answer: Let D = external diameter of hollow shaft
So d = 0.6D internal diameter of hollow shaft
And Ds=diameter of solid shaft
From torsion equation
T t
=
J R

{D 4 - (0.6D )4 }
or ,T =
tJ
= t 32 for hollow shaft
R (D / 2)

D4
tJ 32 s for solid shaft
and T= = J
R Ds
2
D3 D3s
t {1- (0.6)4 } = t
16 16
D 1
or , = 3 = 1.072
Ds 1- (0.6)4

Conventional Question ESE-2001

Question: A cantilever tube of length 120 mm is subjected to an axial tension P = 9.0 kN, A
torsional moment T = 72.0 Nm and a pending Load F = 1.75 kN at the free end. The
material is aluminum alloy with an yield strength 276 MPa. Find the thickness of the
tube limiting the outside diameter to 50 mm so as to ensure a factor of safety of 4.
D3t
Answer: Polar moment of inertia (J) =2R 3t =
4

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
T T.R TD TD 2T 2 72 18335
= or, = = = = = =
J R J 2J D 3 t D 2t (0.050)2 t t
2
4
P 9000 9000 57296
Direct stress (1 ) = = = =
A dt (0.050)t t
d
My M 2 Md
Maximum bending stress ( 2 ) = = = [J = 2I ]
I I J
1750 0.120 0.050 4 106952
= =
(0.050)3 t t
164248
Total longitudinal stress (b ) = 1 + 2 =
t
Maximum principal stress

2
164248 164248 18335
2 2
276 106
(1) = b + b + 2 =
2
+ +
2t t =

2 2t 4
or , t = 2.4 103 m = 2.4 mm
Conventional Question ESE-2000 & ESE 2001
Question: A hollow shaft of diameter ratio 3/8 required to transmit 600 kW at 110 rpm,
the maximum torque being 20% greater than the mean. The shear stress is
not to exceed 63 MPa and the twist in a length of 3 m not to exceed 1.4
degrees. Determine the diameter of the shaft. Assume modulus of rigidity for
the shaft material as 84 GN/m2.
Answer: Let d = internal diameter of the hollow shaft
And D = external diameter of the hollow shaft
(given) d = 3/8 D = 0.375D
Power (P)= 600 kW, speed (N) =110 rpm, Shear stress( )= 63 MPa. Angle of twist (
)=1.4, Length ( A ) =3m , modulus of rigidity (G) = 84GPa
2N
We know that, (P) = T. = T. [T is average torque]
60
3
60 P 60 (60010 )
or T= = = 52087Nm
2N 2 110
Tmax = 1.2T = 1.252087 =62504 Nm
First we consider that shear stress is not to exceed 63 MPa
T
From torsion equation =
J R
T .R T .D
or J = =
2
4 4 62504 D
or D (0.375 D ) =
32 2 (63106 )
or D = 0.1727 m = 172.7 mm (i )
17 1.4
Second we consider angle of twist is not exceed 1.40 = radian
180

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
T G
From torsion equation =
J A
T G
or =
J A
625043
or D 4 (0.375 D) 4 =
32 1.5
(84109 )
180
or D = 0.1755m = 175.5mm (ii )
So both the condition will satisfy if greater of the two value is adopted
so D=175.5 mm

Conventional Question ESE-1997

Question: Determine the torsional stiffness of a hollow shaft of length L and having
outside diameter equal to 1.5 times inside diameter d. The shear modulus of
the material is G.
Answer: Outside diameter (D) =1.5 d

Polar modulus of the shaft (J) =
32
( D 4 d 4 ) = d 4 (1.54 1)
32
T G
We know that = =
J R L
4
G. d (1.54 1)
GJ 32 0.4Gd 4
or T = = =
L L L

Conventional Question AMIE-1996

Question: The maximum normal stress and the maximum shear stress analysed for a
shaft of 150 mm diameter under combined bending and torsion, were found
to be 120 MN/m2 and 80 MN/m2 respectively. Find the bending moment and
torque to which the shaft is subjected.

If the maximum shear stress be limited to 100 MN/m2, find by how much the
torque can be increased if the bending moment is kept constant.
Answer: Given: max = 120MN / m2 ; max = 80MN / m2 ;d = 150mm = 0.15m
Part 1: M; T
We know that for combined bending and torsion, we have the following expressions:
16
max = M + M2 + T 2 (i)
d3
16
and max = 3 M2 + T 2 ( ii )
d
Substituting the given values in the above equations, we have
16 M + M2 + T 2 ( iii )
120 = 3
( 0.15 )
16 M2 + T 2 ( iv )
80 =
( 0.15 )
3

80 ( 0.15 )
3

or M +T =
2 2
= 0.053 ( v )
16

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
Substituting this values in equation iii , we get
16
120 M 0.053
0.1503
M 0.0265MNm
Substituting for M in equation v , we have

0.0265
2
T 2 0.053
or T 0.0459MNm
Part II : [ max 100MN / m2 ]
Increase in torque :
Bending moment M to be kept cons tan t 0.0265MNm
2
100 0.15 3

2 2
or 0.0265 T 0.004391
16
T 0.0607 MNm
The increased torque 0.0607 0.0459 0.0148MNm

Conventional Question ESE-1996

Question: A solid shaft is to transmit 300 kW at 120 rpm. If the shear stress is not to exceed 100
MPa, Find the diameter of the shaft, What percent saving in weight would be obtained
if this shaft were replaced by a hollow one whose internal diameter equals 0.6 of the
external diameter, the length, material and maximum allowable shear stress being the
same?
Answer: Given P= 300 kW, N = 120 rpm, t =100 MPa, d H = 0.6 DH
Diameter of solid shaft, Ds:
2NT 2 120 T
We know that P = or 300 = or T=23873 Nm
60 1000 60 1000
T t
We know that =
J R
4
100 106 Ds
t .J 32
or, T= or, 23873 =
R Ds
2
or, Ds= 0.1067 m =106.7mm

Percentage saving in weight:

TH = Ts

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Chapter-9 Torsion S K Mondals
J J
=
R H
R s

{D d }
4 4
D H4 (0 .6 D H ) 4
or , H
= D s3 H
or , = D s3
DH DH
Ds 1 0 6 .7
or ,DH = = = 1 1 1 .8 m m
3
(1 0 .6 ) 4 3
1 0 .6 4
WH A L g A
A g a in = H H H = H
WS As Ls s g As

AH (D H2 d H2 ) D H2 (1 0 .6 2 ) 1 1 1 .8 2
= 1 0 .6 )2 = 0 .7 0 2
1 0 6 .7 (
= 4 =
As 2 D 2
D s
4 s
W
P e rc e n ta g e s a v in g s in w e ig h t = 1 - H 1 0 0
W s

= (1 -0 .7 0 2 ) 1 0 0 = 2 9 .8 %

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 10. Thin Cylinder
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
1. Thin Rings
Uniformly distributed loading (radial) may be due to
either
Internal pressure or external pressure
Centrifugal force as in the case of a rotating ring

Case-I: Internal pressure or external pressure

s = qr Where q = Intensity of loading in kg/cm of Oce
r = Mean centreline of radius
s = circumferential tension or hoops
tension
(Radial loading ducted outward)
s qr
Unit stress, = =
A A
qr
Circumferential strain, c = =
E AE
Diametral strain, ( d ) = Circumferential strain, ( c )

Case-II: Centrifugal force

w 2 r 2
Hoop's Tension, s = Where w = wt. per unit length of circumferential element
g
= Angular velocity

s w 2 r
Radial loading, q = =
r g
s w 2 2
Hoop's stress, = = . r
A Ag

2. Thin Walled Pressure Vessels

For thin cylinders whose thickness may be considered small compared to their diameter.
Inner dia of the cylinder (d i )
> 15 or 20
wall thickness (t)

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
3. General Formula
1 2 p
+ =
r1 r2 t
Where 1 =Meridional stress at A
2 =Circumferential / Hoop's stress
P = Intensity of internal gas pressure/ fluid pressure
t = Thickness of pressure vessel.

4. Some cases:
Cylindrical vessel
pr pD pr pD
1 = = 2 = = r1 , r2 = r
2t 4t t 2t
1 2 pr pD
max = = =
2 4t 8t
Spherical vessel
pr pD
1 = 2 = = [r1 = r2 = r]
2t 4t
Conical vessel
py tan py tan
1 = [ r1 ] and 2 =
2t cos t cos
Notes: 2 2

Volume 'V' of the spherical shell, V= Di3 1
6
1/3

6V
Di =

Design of thin cylindrical shells is based on hoop's stress

5. Volumetric Strain (Dilation)

V
Rectangular block, =x + y + z
V0
Cylindrical pressure vessel
1 2 pr
1=Longitudinal strain = = [1 2 ]
E E 2 Et
pr 2 1
2 =Circumferential strain = [1 2 ]
=
E E 2 Et
V pr pD
Volumetric Strain, =1 +2 2 = [5 4] = [5 4]
Vo 2 Et 4 Et
i.e. Volumetric strain, (v ) = longitudinal strain (1 ) + 2 circumferential strain (2 )

Spherical vessels
pr
=1 =2 = [1 ]
2 Et
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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
V 3 pr
= 3 = [1 ]
V0 2 Et

6. Thin cylindrical shell with hemispherical end

Condition for no distortion at the junction of cylindrical and hemispherical portion
t2 1
= Where, t1= wall thickness of cylindrical portion
t1 2
t2 = wall thickness of hemispherical portion

7. Alternative method
Consider the equilibrium of forces in the z-direction acting on the part
cylinder shown in figure.
Force due to internal pressure p acting on area D2/4 = p. D2/4
Force due to longitudinal stress sL acting on area Dt = 1 Dt

Equating: p. D2/4 = 1 Dt

pd pr
or 1 = =
4t 2t
Now consider the equilibrium of forces in the x-direction acting on the
sectioned cylinder shown in figure. It is assumed that the
circumferential stress 2 is constant through the thickness of the

cylinder.
Force due to internal pressure p acting on area Dz = pDz
Force due to circumferential stress 2 acting on area 2tz = 2 2tz

Equating: pDz = 2 2tz

pD pr
or 2 = =
2t t

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Longitudinal stress
GATE-1. A thin cylinder of inner radius 500 mm and thickness 10 mm is subjected to an internal
pressure of 5 MPa. The average circumferential (hoop) stress in MPa is
[GATE-2011]
(a) 100 (b) 250 (c) 500 (d) 1000
GATE-2. The maximum principal strain in a thin cylindrical tank, having a radius of 25 cm and
wall thickness of 5 mm when subjected to an internal pressure of 1MPa, is (taking
Young's modulus as 200 GPa and Poisson's ratio as 0.2) [GATE-1998]
(a) 2.25 104 (b) 2.25 (c) 2.25 106 (d) 22.5

GATE-3.A thin walled spherical shell is subjected to an internal pressure. If the radius of the shell is
increased by 1% and the thickness is reduced by 1%, with the internal pressure remaining
the same, the percentage change in the circumferential (hoop) stress is
[GATE-2012]
(a) 0 (b) 1 (c) 1.08 (d) 2.02

Maximum shear stress

GATE-4. A thin walled cylindrical vessel of well thickness, t and diameter d is fitted with gas to a
gauge pressure of p. The maximum shear stress on the vessel wall will then be:[GATE-1999]
pd pd pd pd
(a) (b) (c) (d)
t 2t 4t 8t

Change in dimensions of a thin cylindrical shell due to an internal pressure

Statement for Linked Answers and Questions 5 and 6
A cylindrical container of radius R = 1 m, wall
thickness 1 mm is filled with water up to a depth of 2
m and suspended along its upper rim. The density of
water is 1000 kg/m3 and acceleration due to gravity is
10 m/s2. The self-weight of the cylinder is negligible.
The formula for hoop stress in a thin-walled cylinder
can be used at all points along the height of the
cylindrical container.

[GATE-2008]
GATE-5. The axial and circumferential stress ( a , c ) experienced by the cylinder wall at mid-
depth (1 m as shown) are
(a) (10,10) MPa (b) (5,10) MPa (c) (10,5) MPa (d) (5,5)MPa

GATE-6. If the Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio of the container material are 100 GPa and
0.3, respectively, the axial strain in the cylinder wall at mid-depth is:
(a) 2 105 (b) 6 105 (c) 7 105 (d) 1.2 105

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Circumferential or hoop stress

IES-1. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer: [IES-2002]
List-I List-II
(2-D Stress system loading) (Ratio of principal stresses)
A. Thin cylinder under internal pressure 1. 3.0
B. Thin sphere under internal pressure 2. 1.0
C. Shaft subjected to torsion 3. 1.0
4. 2.0
Codes: A B C A B C
(a) 4 2 3 (b) 1 3 2
(c) 4 3 2 (d) 1 2 3

IES-2. A thin cylinder of radius r and thickness t when subjected to an internal hydrostatic
pressure P causes a radial displacement u, then the tangential strain caused is:[IES-2002]
du 1 du u 2u
(a) (b) . (c) (d)
dr r dr r r

IES-3. A thin cylindrical shell is subjected to internal pressure p. The Poisson's ratio of the
material of the shell is 0.3. Due to internal pressure, the shell is subjected to
circumferential strain and axial strain. The ratio of circumferential strain to axial strain
is: [IES-2001]
(a) 0.425 (b) 2.25 (c) 0.225 (d) 4.25

IES-4. A thin cylindrical shell of diameter d, length l and thickness t is subjected to an internal
pressure p. What is the ratio of longitudinal strain to hoop strain in terms of Poisson's
ratio (1/m)? [IES-2004]
m2 m2 2m 1 2m 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2m 1 2m 1 m2 m 1

IES-5. When a thin cylinder of diameter 'd' and thickness 't' is pressurized with an internal
pressure of 'p', (1/m = is the Poisson's ratio and E is the modulus of elasticity), then[IES-1998]

pd 1 1
(a) The circumferential strain will be equal to
2tE 2 m
pd 1
(b) The longitudinal strain will be equal to 1
2tE 2m
pd
(c) The longitudinal stress will be equal to
2t
(d) The ratio of the longitudinal strain to circumferential strain will be equal to
m2
2m 1
IES-6. A thin cylinder contains fluid at a pressure of 500 N/m 2, the internal diameter of the
shell is 0.6 m and the tensile stress in the material is to be limited to 9000 N/m 2. The
shell must have a minimum wall thickness of nearly [IES-2000]
(a) 9 mm (b) 11 mm (c) 17 mm (d) 21 mm

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
IES-7. A thin cylinder with closed lids
is subjected to internal
pressure and supported at the
ends as shown in figure.
The state of stress at point X is
as represented in

[IES-1999]

IES-8. A thin cylinder with both ends closed is subjected to internal pressure p. The
longitudinal stress at the surface has been calculated as o. Maximum shear stress at the
surface will be equal to: [IES-1999]
a 2 o b 1.5 o c o d 0.5 o
IES-9. A metal pipe of 1m diameter contains a fluid having a pressure of 10 kgf/cm 2. lf the
permissible tensile stress in the metal is 200 kgf/cm2, then the thickness of the metal
required for making the pipe would be: [IES-1993]
(a) 5 mm (b) 10 mm (c) 20 mm (d) 25 mm

IES-10. Circumferential stress in a cylindrical steel boiler shell under internal pressure is 80
MPa. Young's modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio are respectively 2 105 MPa and
0.28. The magnitude of circumferential strain in the boiler shell will be: [IES-1999]
(a) 3.44 104 (b) 3.84 104 (c) 4 104 (d) 4.56 10 4

IES-11. A penstock pipe of 10m diameter carries water under a pressure head of 100 m. If the
wall thickness is 9 mm, what is the tensile stress in the pipe wall in MPa?
[IES-2009]
(a) 2725 (b) 5450 (c) 2725 (d) 1090

IES-12. A water main of 1 m diameter contains water at a pressure head of 100 metres. The
permissible tensile stress in the material of the water main is 25 MPa. What is the
2
minimum thickness of the water main? (Take g = 10 m/ s ).
[IES-2009]
(a) 10 mm (b) 20mm (c) 50 mm (d) 60 mm

IES-12(i). A seamless pipe of diameter d m is to carry fluid under a pressure of p kN/cm 2. The
necessary thickness t of metal in cm, if the maximum stress is not to exceed kN/cm 2, is
[IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

Longitudinal stress
IES-13. Hoop stress and longitudinal stress in a boiler shell under internal pressure are 100
MN/m2 and 50 MN/m2 respectively. Young's modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio of
the shell material are 200 GN/m2 and 0.3 respectively. The hoop strain in boiler shell is:[IES-1995]
3 3 3 3
(a) 0.425 10 (b) 0.5 10 (c) 0.585 10 (d) 0.75 10

IES-14. In strain gauge dynamometers, the use of how many active gauge makes the
dynamometer more effective? [IES 2007]
(a) Four (b) Three (c) Two (d) One

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
Volumetric strain
IES-15. Circumferential and longitudinal strains in a cylindrical boiler under internal steam
pressure are 1 and 2 respectively. Change in volume of the boiler cylinder per unit
volume will be: [IES-1993; IAS 2003]
(a) 1 2 2 (b) 1 22 (c) 21 2 (d) 12 2

IES-16. The volumetric strain in case of a thin cylindrical shell of diameter d, thickness t,
subjected to internal pressure p is: [IES-2003; IAS 1997]
pd pd pd pd
(a) . 3 2 (b) . 4 3 (c) . 5 4 (d) . 4 5
2tE 3tE 4tE 4tE
(Where E = Modulus of elasticity, = Poisson's ratio for the shell material)

Spherical Vessel
IES-17. For the same internal diameter, wall thickness, material and internal pressure, the ratio
of maximum stress, induced in a thin cylindrical and in a thin spherical pressure vessel
will be: [IES-2001]
(a) 2 (b) 1/2 (c) 4 (d) 1/4

IES-18. From design point of view, spherical pressure vessels are preferred over cylindrical
pressure vessels because they [IES-1997]
(a) Are cost effective in fabrication
(b) Have uniform higher circumferential stress
(c) Uniform lower circumferential stress
(d) Have a larger volume for the same quantity of material used

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Circumferential or hoop stress

IAS-1. The ratio of circumferential stress to longitudinal stress in a thin cylinder subjected to
internal hydrostatic pressure is: [IAS 1994]
(a) 1/2 (b) 1 (c) 2 (d) 4

IAS-2. A thin walled water pipe carries water under a pressure of 2 N/mm 2 and discharges
water into a tank. Diameter of the pipe is 25 mm and thickness is 25 mm. What is the
longitudinal stress induced in the pipe? [IAS-2007]
(a) 0 (b) 2 N/mm 2 (c) 5 N/mm 2 (d) 10 N/mm2

IAS-3. A thin cylindrical shell of mean diameter 750 mm and wall thickness 10 mm has its ends
rigidly closed by flat steel plates. The shell is subjected to internal fluid pressure of 10
N/mm2 and an axial external pressure P1. If the longitudinal stress in the shell is to be
zero, what should be the approximate value of P1? [IAS-2007]
(a) 8 N/mm2 (b) 9 N/mm2 (c) 10 N/mm2 (d) 12 N/mm2

IAS-4. Assertion (A): A thin cylindrical shell is subjected to internal fluid pressure that induces
a 2-D stress state in the material along the longitudinal and circumferential directions.[IAS-2000]
Reason(R): The circumferential stress in the thin cylindrical shell is two times the
magnitude of longitudinal stress.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-5. Match List-I (Terms used in thin cylinder stress analysis) with List-II (Mathematical
expressions) and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:[IAS-1998]
List-I List-II
A. Hoop stress 1. pd/4t
B. Maximum shear stress 2. pd/2t
C. Longitudinal stress 3. pd/2
D. Cylinder thickness 4. pd/8t
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 2 3 1 4 (b) 2 3 4 1
(c) 2 4 3 1 (d) 2 4 1 3

Longitudinal stress
IAS-6. Assertion (A): For a thin cylinder under internal pressure, At least three strain gauges
is needed to know the stress state completely at any point on the shell.
Reason (R): If the principal stresses directions are not know, the minimum number of
strain gauges needed is three in a biaxial field. [IAS-2001]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Maximum shear stress

IAS-7. The maximum shear stress is induced in a thin-walled cylindrical shell having an
internal diameter 'D' and thicknesst when subject to an internal pressure 'p' is equal to:[IAS-1996]
(a) pD/t (b) pD/2t (c) pD/4t (d) pD/8t

Volumetric strain
IAS-8. Circumferential and longitudinal strains in a cylindrical boiler under internal steam
pressure are 1 and 2 respectively. Change in volume of the boiler cylinder per unit
volume will be: [IES-1993; IAS 2003]
(a) 1 2 2 (b) 2
1 2 (c) 21 2 (d) 12 2

IAS-9. The volumetric strain in case of a thin cylindrical shell of diameter d, thickness t,
subjected to internal pressure p is: [IES-2003; IAS 1997]
pd pd pd pd
(a) . 3 2 (b) . 4 3 (c) . 5 4 (d) . 4 5
2tE 3tE 4tE 4tE
(Where E = Modulus of elasticity, = Poisson's ratio for the shell material)

IAS-10. A thin cylinder of diameter d and thickness 't' is subjected to an internal pressure 'p' the
change in diameter is (where E is the modulus of elasticity and is the Poisson's ratio)[IAS-1998]

pd 2 pd 2 pd 2 pd 2
(a) (2 ) (b) (1 ) (c) (2 ) (d) (2 )
4tE 2tE tE 4tE

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
IAS-11. The percentage change in volume of a thin cylinder under internal pressure having hoop
stress = 200 MPa, E = 200 GPa and Poisson's ratio = 025 is:
[IAS-2002]
(a) 0.40 (b) 030 (c) 025 (d) 020

IAS-12. A round bar of length l, elastic modulus E and Poisson's ratio is subjected to an axial
pull 'P'. What would be the change in volume of the bar? [IAS-2007]
Pl Pl (1 2 ) Pl Pl
(a) (b) (c) (d)
(1 2 ) E E E E
IAS-13. If a block of material of length 25 cm. breadth 10 cm and height 5 cm undergoes a
volumetric strain of 1/5000, then change in volume will be: [IAS-2000]
(a) 0.50 cm3 (b) 0.25 cm3 (c) 0.20 cm3 (d) 0.75 cm3

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (b) Inner radius (r) = 500 mm
Thickness (t) = 10 mm
Internal pressure (p) = 5 MPa
pr 5 10 6 500
Hoop stress, c Pa 250 Mpa
t 10
pr 1 250
GATE-2. Ans. (a) Circumferential or Hoop stress c 50MPa
t 5
pr
Longitudinal stress l 25MPa
2t
c l 50 106 25 106
ec 9
0.2 2.25 104
E E 200 10 200 109
GATE-3. Ans. (d)
pd pd l pd
GATE-4. Ans. (d) c , l , Maximum shear stress c
2t 4t 2 8t
GATE-5. Ans. (a) Pressure (P) = h g = 1 1000 10 = 10 kPa
Axial Stress ( a ) a 2Rt g R L
2

gRL
1000 10 1 1
or a 10 MPa
t 1 10 3
PR 10 1
Circumferential Stress( c )= 10 MPa
t 1 10 3
a c 10 10
GATE-6. Ans. (c) a 3
0.3 3
7 105
E E 100 10 100 10

IES
IES-1. Ans. (a)
IES-2. Ans. (c)
c l pr
IES-3. Ans. (d) Circumferential strain, ec 2
E E 2Et

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
l pr
Longitudinal strain, el c 1 2
E E 2Et
Pr
IES-4. Ans. (b) longitudinal stress l
2t
Pr
hoop stress c
t
l 1 c 1 1
l
m2
E m E 2 m
c c 1 l 1 2m 1
1
E mE 2m
IES-5. Ans. (d) Ratio of longitudinal strain to circumferential strain
1 1
l c l 2 l m 2
=
m m
1 1 2m 1
c l 2 l l
m m
pr
Circumferential strain, ec c l 2
E E 2Et
l c pr
Longitudinal strain, el 1 2
E E 2Et
IES-6. Ans. (c)
IES-7. Ans. (a) Point 'X' is subjected to circumferential and longitudinal stress, i.e. tension on all
faces, but there is no shear stress because vessel is supported freely outside.
IES-8. Ans. (d)
2 o o o
Longitudinal stress o and hoop stress 2 o Max. shear stress
2 2
pd 10 100 1000
IES-9. Ans. (d) Hoop stress or 200 or t 2.5 cm
2t 2t 400
1
IES-10. Ans. (a) Circumferential strain = 1 2
E
Since circumferential stress 1 80 MPa and longitudinal stress 2 40 MPa
1
6
Circumferential strain 80 0.28 40 106 3.44 x104
2 10 10
5

Pd
IES-11. Ans. (b) Tensile stress in the pipe wall = Circumferential stress in pipe wall =
2t
Where, P gH 980000N / m2
980000 10
Tensile stress 544.44 106 N / m2 544.44MN / m2 544.44MPa
2 9 103
6 2
IES-12. Ans. (b) Pressure in the main gh 1000 10 1000 = 10 N / mm 1000 KPa
Pd
Hoop stress c
2t

t
Pd


106 1

1
m 20 mm
6
2c 2 25 10 50
IES-12(i). Ans. (b)
1 1
IES-13. Ans. (a) Hoopstrain = h l 100 0.3 50 0.425 103
E 200 1000
IES-14. Ans. (b)
IES-15. Ans. (c) Volumetric stream = 2 circumferential strain + longitudinal strain
(Where E = Modulus of elasticity, = Poisson's ratio for the shell material)

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
IES-16. Ans. (c) Remember it.
IES-17. Ans. (a)
IES-18. Ans. (d)

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (c)
Pr 2 12.5
IAS-2. Ans. (c) 5 N/mm2
2t 2 2.5
7502
10
IAS-3. Ans. (c) Tensile longitudinal stress due to internal fluid pressure ( 1) t =
4
750 10
tensile. Compressive longitudinal stress due to external pressure p 1 ( l)c =
750 2
P1
4 compressive. For zero longitudinal stress ( l) t = ( l)c.
750 10
Pr Pr
IAS-4. Ans. (b) For thin cell c l
t 2t
IAS-5. Ans. (d)
IAS-6. Ans. (d) For thin cylinder, variation of radial strain is zero. So only circumferential and
longitudinal strain has to measurer so only two strain gauges are needed.
PD PD l PD
IAS-7. Ans. (d) Hoop stress( c ) and Longitudinalstress( l ) max c
2t 4t 2 8t
IAS-8. Ans. (c) Volumetric stream = 2 x circumferential strain + longitudinal strain.
IAS-9. Ans. (c) Remember it.
IAS-10. Ans. (a)
Pr
IAS-11. Ans. (d) Hoop stress t 200 106 Pa
t
Pr
Volumetric strain (ev ) 5 4 t 5 4
2 Et 2E
200 10 6
2
9
5 4 0.25
2 200 10 1000
IAS-12. Ans. (b)
P
x , y 0 and z 0
A
x x
or x , y
E E
x
and z
E
x P
or v x y z 1 2 1 2
E AE
Pl
V v V v . Al 1 2
E
IAS-13. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
Volume change(V)
Volumetric strain( v )
Initial volume(V)
1
or ( V ) v V 25 10 5 0.25cm3
5000

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question GATE-1996
Question: A thin cylinder of 100 mm internal diameter and 5 mm thickness is subjected to an
internal pressure of 10 MPa and a torque of 2000 Nm. Calculate the magnitudes of the
principal stresses.
Answer: Given: d = 100 mm = 0.1 m; t = 5 mm = 0.005 m; D = d + 2t = 0.1 + 2 x 0.005 =
0.11 m p = 10 MPa, 10 x 106N/m2; T= 2000 Nm.
pd 10 106 0.1
Longitudinal stress, l x 50 106 N / m2 50MN / m2
4t 4 0.005
pd 10 106 0.1
Circumferential stress, c y 100MN / m2
2t 2 0.005
To find the shear stress, using Torsional equation,
T
, we have
J R
TR T R 2000 0.05 0.005
xy 24.14MN / m2
J
32
4
D d
4

32
4
0.11 0.1 4

Principal stresses are:
2
x y x y
xy
2
1,2
2 2
2
50 100 50 100
24.14
2

2 2
75 34.75 109.75 and 40.25MN / m2
1 Major principal stress 109.75MN / m2 ;
2 minor principal stress 40.25MN / m2 ;

Conventional Question IES-2008

Question: A thin cylindrical pressure vessel of inside radius r and thickness of metal t is subject
to an internal fluid pressure p. What are the values of
(i) Maximum normal stress?
(ii) Maximum shear stress?
p.r
Answer: Circumferential (Hoop) stress (s c )=
t
p.r
Longitudinal stress (s l )= =
2t
sc - sl p.r
Therefore (ii) Maximum shear stress, ( t max) = =
2 4t

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
Conventional Question IES-1996
Question: A thin cylindrical vessel of internal diameter d and thickness t is closed at both ends is
subjected to an internal pressure P. How much would be the hoop and longitudinal
stress in the material?
Answer: For thin cylinder we know that
Pd
Hoop or circumferential stress ( c ) =
2t
Pd
And longitudinal stress ( l )=
4t
Therefore c = 2 l

Conventional Question IES-2009

Q. A cylindrical shell has the following dimensions:
Length = 3 m
Inside diameter = 1 m
Thickness of metal = 10 mm
Internal pressure = 1.5 MPa
Calculate the change in dimensions of the shell and the maximum intensity of shear
stress induced. Take E = 200 GPa and Poissons ratio = 0.3 [15-Marks]

Ans. We can consider this as a thin cylinder.

pd
Hoop stresses, 1
2t
pd
Longitudinal stresses, 2
4t
1 2
Shear stress =
2
pd

8t
Hence from the given data
1.5 10 6 1
1 3
0.75 10 8
2 10 10
75 MPa
1.5 10 6 1
2 37.5 10 6
4 10 10 3
37.5 MP a
1 Ho o p s tra in
1
1 v 2
E 1
Pd
2 v
4tE
1.5 10 6 1
2 0.3
4 10 10 3 200 10 9
37.5 10 6
2 0.3
200 10 9
0.31875 10 3
d
0.3187 10 3
d

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
c h an ge in diam e te r,
d = 1 0.31875 10 3 m
= 0.31875 m m
Lo g itu d in a l s tra in , 2
pd
2 1 2v
4tE
37.5 10 6
1 2 0.3
200 10 9
7.5 10 5
l
7.5 10 5
l
o r l 7.5 10 5 3
2.25 10 4 m 0.225m m

Change in length = 0.225 mm and maximum shear stress,

p d 1.5 10 6 1

8t 8 10 10 3
18.75 MP a

Conventional Question IES-1998

Question: A thin cylinder with closed ends has an internal diameter of 50 mm and a wall
thickness of 2.5 mm. It is subjected to an axial pull of 10 kN and a torque of 500 Nm
while under an internal pressure of 6 MN/m2
(i) Determine the principal stresses in the tube and the maximum shear stress.
(ii) Represent the stress configuration on a square element taken in the load direction
with direction and magnitude indicated; (schematic).
Answer: Given: d = 50 mm = 0.05 m D = d + 2t = 50 + 2 x 2.5 = 55 mm = 0.055 m;
Axial pull, P = 10 kN; T= 500 Nm; p = 6MN/m 2
(i) Principal stresses ( 1,2 ) in the tube and the maximum shear stress ( t max ):

pd P 6 106 0.05 10 103

x
4t dt 4 2.5 10 3 0.05 2.5 10 3
30 106 25.5 10 6 55.5 10 6 N / m2
pd 6 106 0.05
y 3
60 106
2t 2 2.5 10
Principal stresses are:
x y x y
1,2 xy
2
1
2 2
T
Us e Torsional equation, i
J R

where J
32
D 4

d4
32
0.055 0.05 2.848 10 7 m4
4 4

J polar moment of in ertia
Substituting the values in i , we get

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Chapter-10 Thin Cylinder S K Mondals
500

2.848 10 7 0.055 / 2
500 0.055 / 2
or 48.28 106 N / m2
2.848 10 7
Now, substituting the various values in eqn. (i), we have

55.5 106 60 106 55.5 106 60 106

2
1,2 48.28 10
6

2 2
(55.5 60) 106
4.84 1012 2330.96 1012
2
57.75 106 48.33 106 106.08MN / m2 ,9.42MN / m2
Principal stresses are : 1 106.08MN / m2 ; 2 9.42MN / m2
1 2 106.08 9.42
Maximum shear stress, max 48.33MN / m2
2 2
ii Stress configuration on a square element :

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 11. Thick Cylinder
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
1. Thick cylinder
Inner dia of the cylinder (d i )
< 15 or 20
wall thickness (t)

2. General Expression

3. Difference between the analysis of stresses in thin & thick cylinders

In thin cylinders, it is assumed that the tangential stress t is uniformly distributed over
the cylinder wall thickness.

In thick cylinder, the tangential stress t has the highest magnitude at the inner surface of
the cylinder & gradually decreases towards the outer surface.

The radial stress r is neglected in thin cylinders while it is of significant magnitude in case

of thick cylinders.

4. Strain
du
Radial strain, r = .
dr
u
Circumferential /Tangential strain t =
r
z
Axial strain, z = r + t
E E E

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
5. Stress
pi ri 2
Axial stress, z = 2
r0 ri 2
B
Radial stress, r = A
r2
B
Circumferential /Tangential stress, t = A +
r2
[Note: Radial stress always compressive so its magnitude always ive. But in some books they
B
assume that compressive radial stress is positive and they use, r = A]
r2

6. Boundary Conditions
At r = ri , r = pi
At r = ro r = po

p r2 p r2 ri 2 ro2
7. A = i i 2 2o o and B = ( pi po ) 2 2
ro ri (ro ri )

8. Cylinders with internal pressure (pi) i.e. po = 0

pi ri 2
z = 2 2
r0 ri

pi ri 2 r02
r = 1 [ -ive means compressive stress]
r02 ri 2 r 2

pi ri 2 r02
t = + 2 + 1
r02 ri 2 r

(a) At the inner surface of the cylinder

(i ) r = ri
(ii ) r = pi
pi (ro2 + ri 2 )
(iii ) t = +
ro2 ri 2
ro2
(iv) max = . pi
ro2 ri 2
(b) At the outer surface of the cylinder

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
(i ) r = ro
(ii ) r = 0
2pi ri2
(iii ) t = 2 2
ro ri
(c) Radial and circumferential stress distribution within the cylinder wall when only
internal pressure acts.

9. Cylinders with External Pressure (po) i.e. pi = 0

po ro2 ri 2
r = i 2
ro2 ri 2 r

po ro2 ri 2
t = 2 2 i + 2
ro ri r
(a) At the inner surface of the cylinder

(i) r = ri

(ii) r = o
2 po ro2
(iii) t =
ro2 ri 2
(b) At the outer surface of the cylinder
(i) r = ro

(ii) r = po

po (ro2 + ri 2 )
(iii) t = 2 2
ro ri
(c) Distribution of radial and circumferential stresses within the cylinder wall when
only external pressure acts

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals

10. Lame's Equation [for Brittle Material, open or closed end]

There is a no of equations for the design of thick cylinders. The choice of equation depends upon two
parameters.
Cylinder Material (Whether brittle or ductile)
Condition of Cylinder ends (open or closed)

When the material of the cylinder is brittle, such as cast iron or cast steel, Lame's Equation is used to
determine the wall thickness. Condition of cylinder ends may open or closed.

It is based on maximum principal stress theory of failure.

There principal stresses at the inner surface of the cylinder are as follows: (i) (ii) & (iii)

(i ) r = pi

pi (r02 + ri 2 )
(ii ) t = +
r02 ri 2
pi ri 2
(iii ) z = + 2 2
ro ri
t >z >r

ro t + pi
t is the criterion of design =
ri t pi
For ro = ri + t

+p
t = ri t i
1 ( Lame ' s Equation)
t pi

ult
t =
fos
11. Clavarino's Equation [for cylinders with closed end & made of ductile material]
When the material of a cylinder is ductile, such as mild steel or alloy steel, maximum strain theory
of failure is used (St. Venant's theory) is used.

Three principal stresses at the inner surface of the cylinder are as follows (i) (ii) & (iii)

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
(i ) r = pi
pi (ro2 + ri 2 )
(ii ) t = +
(ro2 ri 2 )
pi ri 2
(iii ) z = +
(ro2 ri 2 )
1
t = t ( r + z )
E

yld / fos
t = =
E E
yld
Or = t ( r + z ). Where =
fos
is the criterion of design

ro + (1 2 ) pi
=
ri (1 + ) pi

For ro = ri + t

+ (1 2 ) pi
t = ri 1 ( Clavarion's Equation )
(1 + ) pi

12. Birne's Equation [for cylinders with open end & made of ductile material]
When the material of a cylinder is ductile, such as mild steel or alloy steel, maximum strain theory
of failure is used (St. Venant's theory) is used.

Three principal stresses at the inner surface of the cylinder are as follows (i) (ii) & (iii)

(i ) r = pi
pi (ro2 + ri 2 )
(ii ) t = +
(ro2 ri 2 )
(iii ) z = 0

yld
= t r where =
fos
is the criterion of design

ro + (1 ) pi
=
ri (1 + ) pi
For ro = ri + t

+ (1 ) pi
t = ri 1 (Birnie's Equation)
(1 + ) pi

13. Barlows equation: [for high pressure gas pipe brittle or ductile material]
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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
pi
t = ro [GAIL exam 2004]
t
y
Where t = for ductile material
fos
ult
= for brittle material
fos

14. Compound Cylinder (A cylinder & A Jacket)

When two cylindrical parts are assembled by shrinking or press-fitting, a contact pressure is
created between the two parts. If the radii of the inner cylinder are a and c and that of the
outer cylinder are (c- ) and b, being the radial interference the contact pressure is given
by:

E (b c ) (c a )
2 2 2 2

P= Where E is the Young's modulus of the material

c 2c 2 (b 2 a 2 )

The inner diameter of the jacket is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of cylinder
When the jacket is heated, it expands sufficiently to move over the cylinder
As the jacket cools, it tends to contract onto the inner cylinder, which induces residual
compressive stress.
There is a shrinkage pressure 'P' between the cylinder and the jacket.
The pressure 'P' tends to contract the cylinder and expand the jacket
The shrinkage pressure 'P' can be evaluated from the above equation for a given amount of
interference
The resultant stresses in a compound cylinder are found by supervision losing the 2- stresses
stresses due to shrink fit
stresses due to internal pressure
Derivation:

Due to interference let us assume j = increase in inner diameter

of jacket and c = decrease in outer diameter of cylinder.
so = j + c i.e. without sign.

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
Now j = j c
j = tangential strain
1
= [ t r ] c
E

t =circumferential stress

cP b 2 + c 2 p(b2 +c 2 )
= + ( i ) +
E b c
2 2

( b 2
-c 2
)


r =-p (radial stress)

2 2

1 t = p(c + a )
And in similar way c =c c = [ t r ]c (c 2 a2 )
E

r = p
cP c 2 + a 2
=- - (ii ) Here -ive signrepresents contraction
E c 2 a 2

Adding ( i ) & ( ii )
Pc 2c 2 ( b 2 a 2 ) E (b 2 c 2 )(c 2 a 2 )
= j + c = 2 or P =
E (b c 2 )(c 2 a 2 ) c 2c 2 (b 2 a 2 )

15. Autofrettage
Autofrettage is a process of pre-stressing the cylinder before using it in operation.

We know that when the cylinder is subjected to internal pressure, the circumferential stress at the
inner surface limits the pressure carrying capacity of the cylinder.

In autofrettage pre-stressing develops a residual compressive stresses at the inner surface. When
the cylinder is actually loaded in operation, the residual compressive stresses at the inner surface
begin to decrease, become zero and finally become tensile as the pressure is gradually increased.
Thus autofrettage increases the pressure carrying capacity of the cylinder.

16. Rotating Disc

The radial & circumferential (tangential) stresses in a rotating disc of uniform thickness are given
by

2 2 R02 Ri2
r = ( 3 + ) R0 + Ri 2 r 2
2

8 r
2 R02 Ri2 1 + 3 2
t = ( 3 + ) R02 + Ri2 + .r
8 r2 3+
Where Ri = Internal radius
Ro = External radius
= Density of the disc material
= Angular speed
= Poisson's ratio.
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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals

3+ 2 2 1 2
Or, Hoops stress, t = . . R0 + Ri
4 3 +
3+
Radial stress, r = . R0 Ri
2 2 2

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Lame's theory
GATE-1. A thick cylinder is subjected to an internal pressure of 60 MPa. If the hoop stress on the
outer surface is 150 MPa, then the hoop stress on the internal surface is:[GATE-1996; IES-2001]
(a) 105 MPa (b) 180 MPa (c) 210 MPa (d) 135 MPa

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Thick cylinder
IES-1. If a thick cylindrical shell is subjected to internal pressure, then hoop stress, radial
stress and longitudinal stress at a point in the thickness will be:
(a) Tensile, compressive and compressive respectively [IES-1999]
(b) All compressive
(c) All tensile
(d) Tensile, compressive and tensile respectively

IES-2. Where does the maximum hoop stress in a thick cylinder under external pressure occur?[IES-2008]
(a) At the outer surface (b) At the inner surface
(c) At the mid-thickness (d) At the 2/3rd outer radius

IES-3. In a thick cylinder pressurized from inside, the hoop stress is maximum at
(a) The centre of the wall thickness (b) The outer radius [IES-1998]
(c) The inner radius (d) Both the inner and the outer radii

IES-4. Where does the maximum hoop stress in a thick cylinder under external pressure occur?[IES-2008]
(a) At the outer surface (b) At the inner surface
(c) At the mid-thickness (d) At the 2/3rd outer radius

IES-5. A thick-walled hollow cylinder having outside and inside radii of 90 mm and 40 mm
respectively is subjected to an external pressure of 800 MN/m 2. The maximum
circumferential stress in the cylinder will occur at a radius of
[IES-1998]
(a) 40 mm (b) 60 mm (c) 65 mm (d) 90 mm

IES-6. In a thick cylinder, subjected to internal and external pressures, let r 1 and r2 be the
internal and external radii respectively. Let u be the radial displacement of a material
element at radius r, r2 r r1 . Identifying the cylinder axis as z axis, the radial strain
component rr is: [IES-1996]
(a) u/r (b) u / (c) du/dr (d) du/d

Lame's theory
IES-7. A thick cylinder is subjected to an internal pressure of 60 MPa. If the hoop stress on the
outer surface is 150 MPa, then the hoop stress on the internal surface is:[GATE-1996; IES-2001]
(a) 105 MPa (b) 180 MPa (c) 210 MPa (d) 135 MPa

IES-8. A hollow pressure vessel is subject to internal pressure. [IES-2005]

Consider the following statements:

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
1. Radial stress at inner radius is always zero.
2. Radial stress at outer radius is always zero.
3. The tangential stress is always higher than other stresses.
4. The tangential stress is always lower than other stresses.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 2 and 4

IES-9. A thick open ended cylinder as shown in the figure is

made of a material with permissible normal and
shear stresses 200 MPa and 100 MPa respectively.
The ratio of permissible pressure based on the normal
and shear stress is:
[di = 10 cm; do = 20 cm]
(a) 9/5 (b) 8/5
(c) 7/5 (d) 4/5
[IES-2002]

Longitudinal and shear stress

IES-10. A thick cylinder of internal radius and external radius a and b is subjected to internal
pressure p as well as external pressure p. Which one of the following statements is
correct? [IES-2004]
The magnitude of circumferential stress developed is:
(a) Maximum at radius r = a (b) Maximum at radius r = b
(c) Maximum at radius r = ab (d) Constant

IES-11. Consider the following statements: [IES-2007]

In a thick walled cylindrical pressure vessel subjected to internal pressure, the
Tangential and radial stresses are:
1. Minimum at outer side
2. Minimum at inner side
3. Maximum at inner side and both reduce to zero at outer wall
4. Maximum at inner wall but the radial stress reduces to zero at outer wall
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 1 and 3 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 4 only

IES-12. Consider the following statements at given point in the case of thick cylinder subjected to
fluid pressure: [IES-2006]
1. Radial stress is compressive
2. Hoop stress is tensile
3. Hoop stress is compressive
4. Longitudinal stress is tensile and it varies along the length
5. Longitudinal stress is tensile and remains constant along the length of the cylinder
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only 1, 2 and 4 (b) Only 3 and 4 (c) Only 1,2 and 5 (d) Only 1,3 and 5

IES-13. A thick cylinder with internal diameter d and outside diameter 2d is subjected to
internal pressure p. Then the maximum hoop stress developed in the cylinder is:[IES-2003]
2 5
(a) p (b) p (c) p (d) 2p
3 3

Compound or shrunk cylinder

IES-14. Autofrettage is a method of: [IES-1996; 2005; 2006]
(a) Joining thick cylinders (b) Relieving stresses from thick cylinders
(c) Pre-stressing thick cylinders (d) Increasing the life of thick cylinders

IES-15. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the
Lists: [IES-2004]

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
List-I List-II
A. Wire winding 1. Hydrostatic stress
B. Lame's theory 2. Strengthening of thin cylindrical shell
C. Solid sphere subjected to uniform 3. Strengthening of thick cylindrical shell
pressure on the surface
D. Autofrettage 4. Thick cylinders
Coeds: A B C D A B C D
(a) 4 2 1 3 (b) 4 2 3 1
(c) 2 4 3 1 (d) 2 4 1 3

IES-16. If the total radial interference between two cylinders forming a compound cylinder is
and Young's modulus of the materials of the cylinders is E, then the interface pressure
developed at the interface between two cylinders of the same material and same length
is: [IES-2005]
(a) Directly proportional of E x (b) Inversely proportional of E/
(c) Directly proportional of E/ (d) Inversely proportional of E /

IES-17. A compound cylinder with inner radius 5 cm and outer radius 7 cm is made by shrinking
one cylinder on to the other cylinder. The junction radius is 6 cm and the junction
pressure is 11 kgf/cm2. The maximum hoop stress developed in the inner cylinder is:[IES-1994]
(a) 36 kgf/cm2 compression (b) 36 kgf/cm2 tension
(c) 72 kgf/cm2 compression (d) 72 kgf/cm2 tension.

Thick Spherical Shell

IES-18. The hemispherical end of a pressure vessel is fastened to the cylindrical portion of the
pressure vessel with the help of gasket, bolts and lock nuts. The bolts are subjected to:[IES-2003]
(a) Tensile stress (b) Compressive stress (c) Shear stress (d) Bearing stress

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Longitudinal and shear stress

IAS-1. A solid thick cylinder is subjected to an external hydrostatic pressure p. The state of
stress in the material of the cylinder is represented as: [IAS-1995]

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (c) If internal pressure = pi; External pressure = zero

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
piri2 ro2
Circumferential or hoop stress (c) = 2 2
1 2
r ri r o

At pi 60MPa, c 150MPa and r ro

2
ri2 ro2 ri2 ri2 150 5 r 9
150 60 2 1 120 or or o
ro2 ri2 ro ro2 ri2 2
ro ri 2
120 4 ri 5
at r ri
ro2
ri2 5 9
c 60 2 1 60 1 210 MPa
ro2 ri2
ir 4 5
IES-1. Ans. (d) Hoop stress tensile, radial stress compressive and longitudinal stress tensile.

Radial and circumferential stress Distribution of radial and circumferential

distribution within the cylinder wall stresses within the cylinder wall when only
when only internal pressure acts. external pressure acts.
IES-2. Ans. (b)
Circumferential or hoop stress = t

IES-3. Ans. (c)

IES-4. Ans. (a) Maximum hoop stress in thick cylinder under external pressure occur at the outer
surface.

IES-5. Ans. (a)

IES-6. Ans. (c) The strains r and may be given by

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
u r 1
r r v sin ce z 0
r E

r u r r u r 1 v
r
r r E

Representation of radial and

circumferential strain.
IES-7. Ans. (c) If internal pressure = pi; External pressure = zero
p r2 r2
Circumferential or hoop stress (c) = 2 i i 2 o2 1
ro ri r
At pi 60MPa, c 150MPa and r ro
2
ri2 ro2 ri2 ri2 150 5 r 9
150 60 2 1 120 or or o
ro2 ri2 ro ro2 ri2 ro2 ri2 120 4 r
i 5
at r ri
ri2 ro2 5 9
c 60 2 2 2
1 60 1 210 MPa
r ri ri
o 4 5
IES-8. Ans. (c)
IES-9. Ans. (b)
IES-10. Ans. (d)
B Pri i2 Poro2 Pa2 Pb2
c A A P
r2 ro2 ri2 b2 a2
Pi Po ro2ri2
c P B o
ro2 ri2
IES-11. Ans. (c)
IES-12. Ans. (c) 3. For internal fluid pressure Hoop or circumferential stress is tensile.
4. Longitudinal stress is tensile and remains constant along the length of the cylinder.
IES-13. Ans. (c) In thick cylinder, maximum hoop stress
2
d
d2
r r
2 2
2 5 p
hoop p 22 12 p
r2 r1 d
2
3
d
2

2
IES-14. Ans. (c)
IES-15. Ans. (d)
IES-16. Ans. (a)

PD2

2D22 D32 D12


E D32 D22 D22 D12

P E.

Alternatively : if E then P
and if then P so P E

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals

IES-17. Ans. (c)

IES-18. Ans. (a)
IAS-1. Ans. (c)

Distribution of radial and circumferential stresses within the cylinder wall when only
external pressure acts.

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES-1997
Question: The pressure within the cylinder of a hydraulic press is 9 MPa. The inside diameter of
the cylinder is 25 mm. Determine the thickness of the cylinder wall, if the permissible
tensile stress is 18 N/mm2
Answer: Given: P = 9 MPa = 9 N/mm2, Inside radius, r1 = 12.5 mm;
t = 18 N/mm2
Thickness of the cylinder:
r2 r2
Usin g the equation; t p 22 12 , we have
r2 r1
r 2 12.52
18 9 22 2
r2 12.5
or r2 21.65mm
Thickness of the cylinder r2 r1 21.65 12.5 9.15mm

Conventional Question IES-2010

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
Q. A spherical shell of 150 mm internal diameter has to withstand an internal pressure of
30 MN/m2. Calculate the thickness of the shell if the allowable stress is 80 MN/m2.
Assume the stress distribution in the shell to follow the law
2b b
r a 3
a n d 0 a 3 . [10 Marks]
r r

Ans. A spherical shell of 150 mm internal diameter internal pressure = 30 MPa.

Allowable stress = 80 MN/m2
2b
Assume radial stress = r a
r3
b
Circumference stress = a 3
r
At internal diameter (r)
r 30N / m m 2

80N / m m 2
2b
30 a ..............(i)
(75)3
b
80 a .................(ii)
(75)3
Solu in g eq n (i)& (ii)
110 75 3 130
b a
3 3
At ou t er Ra diu s (R) r a dia l st r ess sh ou ld be zer o
2b
oa
R3
2b 2 110 75 3
R3 713 942.3077
a 130
3
3
R 89.376m m
Th er e for e t h ickn ess of cylin der = (R r )
89.376 75 14.376 m m

Conventional Question IES-1993

Question: A thick spherical vessel of inner 'radius 150 mm is subjected to an internal pressure of
80 MPa. Calculate its wall thickness based upon the
(i) Maximum principal stress theory, and
(ii) Total strain energy theory.
Poisson's ratio = 0.30, yield strength = 300 MPa
Answer: Given:
1
r1 150mm; p r 80MPa 80 10 6 N / m2 ; 0.30;
m
300MPa 300 106 N / m2
Wall thickness t :

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
i Maximum principal stress theory :
K 2 1 r2
We know that, r 2 Where K
K 1 r1
K 2 1
or 80 10 6 2 300 10
6

K 1
or K 1.314
or K 1.314
r2
i.e. 1.314 or r2 r1 1.314 150 1.314 197.1mm
r1
Metal thickness, t r2 r1 197.1 150 47.1 mm
(ii) Total strain energy theory:

Use y2
2
1
2
2 1 2
2 r2 K 4 1 1
2
K
2
2
1

2
2 80 106 K 4 1 03 1 0.3

2
6
300 10
K
2
2
1

0.7
2
or 3002 K 2 1 2 802 1.3K 4
gives K 1.86 or 0.59
It is clear that K 1
K 1.364
r2
or 1.364 or r2 150 1.364 204.6 mm
r1
t r2 r1 204.6 150 54.6 mm

Conventional Question ESE-2002

Question: What is the difference in the analysis of think tubes compared to that for thin tubes?
State the basic equations describing stress distribution in a thick tube.
Answer: The difference in the analysis of stresses in thin and thick cylinder:
(i) In thin cylinder, it is assumed that the tangential stress is uniformly distributed
over the cylinder wall thickness. In thick cylinder, the tangential stress has highest
magnitude at the inner surface of the cylinder and gradually decreases towards the
outer surface.
(ii) The radial stress is neglected in thin cylinders, while it is of significant magnitude
in case of thick cylinders.
Basic equation for describing stress distribution in thick tube is Lame's equation.
B B
sr = 2
- A and s t = 2 + A
r r

Conventional Question ESE-2006

Question: What is auto frettage?
How does it help in increasing the pressure carrying capacity of a thick cylinder?
Answer: Autofrettage is a process of pre-stressing the cylinder before using it in operation.
We know that when the cylinder is subjected to internal pressure, the circumferential
stress at the inner surface limits the pressure carrying capacity of the cylinder.
In autofrettage pre-stressing develops a residual compressive stresses at the inner
surface. When the cylinder is actually loaded in operation, the residual compressive

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
In autofrettage pre-stressing develops a residual compressive stresses at the inner
surface. When the cylinder is actually loaded in operation, the residual compressive
stresses at the inner surface begin to decrease, become zero and finally become tensile
as the pressure is gradually increased. Thus autofrettage increases the pressure
carrying capacity of the cylinder.

Conventional Question ESE-2001

Question: When two cylindrical parts are assembled by shrinking or press-fitting, a
contact pressure is created between the two parts. If the radii of the inner
cylinder are a and c and that of the outer cylinder are (c- ) and b, being
the radial interference the contact pressure is given by:

E (b c ) (c a )
2 2 2 2

P=
c 2c 2 (b 2 a 2 )

Where E is the Young's modulus of the material, Can you outline the steps
involved in developing this important design equation?
Answer:

Due to interference let us assume j = increase in inner diameter

of jacket and c = decrease in outer diameter of cylinder.
so = j + c i.e. without sign.

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
Now j = j c
j = tangential strain
1
= [ t r ] c
E

t =circumferential stress

cP b 2 + c 2 p(b2 +c 2 )
= + ( i ) +
E b c
2 2

( b 2
-c 2
)


r =-p (radial stress)
And in similar way c =c c
2 2

1 t = p(c + a )
= [ t r ] c
(c 2 a2 )
E
r = p
cP c 2 + a 2
=- - (ii ) Here -ive signrepresents contraction
E c 2 a 2
Adding (i ) & (ii )
Pc 2c 2 (b 2 a 2 )
= j + c =
E (b 2 c 2 )(c 2 a 2 )
E (b 2 c 2 )(c 2 a 2 )
or P = Proved.
c 2c 2 (b 2 a 2 )

Conventional Question ESE-2003

Question: A steel rod of diameter 50 mm is forced into a bronze casing of outside
diameter 90 mm, producing a tensile hoop stress of 30 MPa at the outside
diameter of the casing.
Find (i) The radial pressure between the rod and the casing
(ii) The shrinkage allowance and
(iii) The rise in temperature which would just eliminate the force fit.
Assume the following material properties:
5 o
Es = 2105 MPa, S = 0.25 , s = 1.210 / C
5
Eb = 1105 MPa , b = 0.3, b = 1.910 /o C
Answer:

There is a shrinkage pressure P between the steel rod and the bronze casing. The
pressure P tends to contract the steel rod and expand the bronze casing.
(i) Consider Bronze casing, According to Lames theory
B Piri 2 P0 r02
t = +A Where A =
r2 r02 ri 2
(Pi P0 )r02 ri 2
and B =
r02 ri 2

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
Pi = P, P0 = 0 and
Pri2 Pr02 ri 2 2Pri2
A= , B= =
r02 ri 2 r02 ri 2 r02 ri 2
B Pri2 Pri2 2Pri2
30 = + A = + =
ro2 r02 ri 2 r02 ri 2 r02 ri 2
30(r02 ri 2 ) r 2 90 2
or , P= = 15 0
1 = 15 1 MPa=33.6MPa
r 2
50
2ri 2 i
Therefore the radial pressure between the rod and the casing is P= 33.6 MPa.
(ii) The shrinkage allowance:
Let j = increase in inert diameter of bronze casing
C= decrease in outer diameter of steel rod
1st consider bronze casing:

B
Tangential stress at the inner surface( t ) j = +A
ri 2
90 2
+ 1

Pr 2 Pr 2
= 2 0 2+ 2 i 2=
P (r02 + r12 )
= 33.6 50 = 63.6MPa

r0 ri r0 ri (r02 ri 2 ) 2
90 1

50
and radial stress(r ) j = P = 33.6MPa
longitudial stress( A ) j = 0

1
Therefore tangential strain (t ) j = (t ) j (r ) j
E
1
= [63.6 + 0.3 33.6] =7.36810 -4
1105
j = (t ) j d i = 7.368 104 0.050 = 0.03684 mm

2nd Consider steel rod:

Circumferential stress ( t )s = P
and radial stress (r )s = P
1
c = (t )s d i = (t )S (r )s d i
Es
Pd i 33.6 0.050
= (1 ) = [1 0.3 ] = 0.00588mm [reduction]
Es 2 105
Total shrinkage = j + c =0.04272mm[it is diametral] = 0.02136 mm [radial]

(iii) Let us temperature rise is ( t )

As b > s due to same temperature rise steel not will expand less than bronze
casing. When their difference of expansion will be equal to the shrinkage then
force fit will eliminate.

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
1
E 72GPa 72 109 N / m2; 0.33
m
Principal stress and maximum shear stress:
Using the condition in Lames equation:
b
r a
r2
At r 0.1m, 2 p 150MN / m2
r 0.4m, 2 0
Substituting the values in the above equation we have
b
150 a i
0.1
2

b
0 a ii
0.4
2

From i and ii , we get

a 10 and b 1.6

The circumferential or hoop stress by Lame ' s equation,is given by

b
c a
r2
1.6
c max ,at r r1 0.1m 2
10 170MN / m2 tensile , and
0.1
1.6
c min ,at r r2 0.4m 2 10 20MN / m2 tensile .
0.4
Pr incipal stresses are 170 MN / m2 and 20MN / m2
c max c min 170 20
Maximum shear stress, max 75MN / m2
2 2

Increase in inside diameter, d1 :

150 0.1
2
pr 2
We know,longitudinal or axial stress, l 2 1 2 10MN / m2
r2 r1 0.4 2 0.12

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Chapter-11 Thick Cylinder S K Mondals
Circumferential or hoop strain at the inner radius,is given by :
1 1
1 c r l 170 106 0.33 150 10 106 0.003
E 72 109
d
Also, 1 1
d1
d1
or 0.003
0.1
d1 0.003 0.1 0.003m or 0.3 mm

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 12. Spring
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
1. A spring is a mechanical device which is used for the efficient storage
and release of energy.

2. Helical spring stress equation

Let us a close-coiled helical spring has coil diameter D, wire diameter d and number of turn n. The
D
spring material has a shearing modulus G. The spring index, C = . If a force P is exerted in both
d
ends as shown.

The work done by the axial

force 'P' is converted into
strain energy and stored in
the spring.

U=(average torque)
(angular displacement)
T
=
2

TL
From the figure we get, =
GJ
PD
Torque (T)=
2

length of wire (L)=Dn

d 4
Polar m om ent of Inertia(J)=
32
4P 2D 3 n
Therefore U=
Gd 4
According to Castigliano's theorem, the displacement corresponding to force P is obtained by
partially differentiating strain energy with respect to that force.

U 4 p 2 D3n 8PD3n
Therefore = = =
P P Gd 4 Gd 4

8 PD 3 n
Axial deflection =
Gd 4

P Gd 4
Spring stiffness or spring constant (k ) = =
8D3n

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
16T 16 ( PD / 2 ) 8PD
The torsional shear stress in the bar, 1 = = =
d3 d3 d3
P 4P 8PD 0.5d
The direct shear stress in the bar, 2 = = =
d 2
d2 d 3 D

4
8PD 0.5d 8PD
Therefore the total shear stress, = 1 + 2 = 3
1+ = Ks
d D d3
8PD
= Ks
d3
0.5d
Where K s = 1 + is correction factor for direct shear stress.
D

3. Wahls stress correction factor

8PD
=K
d3

4C 1 0.615
Where K = + is known as Wahls stress correction factor
4C 4 C
Here K = KsKc; Where K s is correction factor for direct shear stress and Kc is correction

factor for stress concentration due to curvature.

Note: When the spring is subjected to a static force, the effect of stress concentration is neglected
8PD
due to localized yielding. So we will use, = K s
d3
4. Equivalent stiffness (keq)
Spring in series ( e = 1 + 2 ) Spring in Parallel ( e = 1 = 2 )

1 1 1 K1 K 2 K eq = K1 + K 2
= + or K eq =
K eq K1 K 2 K1 + K 2

Shaft in series ( = 1 + 2 ) Shaft in Parallel ( eq = 1 = 2 )

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
1 1 1 K1 K 2 K eq = K1 + K 2
= + or K eq =
K eq K1 K 2 K1 + K 2

5. Important note
If a spring is cut into n equal lengths then spring constant of each new spring = nk
When a closed coiled spring is subjected to an axial couple M then the rotation,
64 MDnc
=
Ed 4

6. Laminated Leaf or Carriage Springs

3PL3
Central deflection, =
8Enbt 3
3PL
Maximum bending stress, max =
2nbt 2
Where P = load on spring
b = width of each plate
n = no of plates
L= total length between 2 points
t =thickness of one plate.

7. Belleville Springs
4 E 3
Load, P = (h ) h 2 t + t
(1 2 ) k f D02
Do
Where, E = Modulus of elasticity
= Linear deflection
=Poissons Ratio
kf =factor for Belleville spring P

Do = outside diamerer t

h = Deflection required to flatten Belleville spring ho

t = thickness
Note:
Total stiffness of the springs kror = stiffness per spring No of springs
In a leaf spring ratio of stress between full length and graduated leaves = 1.5
Conical spring- For application requiring variable stiffness
Belleville Springs -For application requiring high capacity springs into small space

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Helical spring
GATE-1. If the wire diameter of a closed coil helical spring subjected to compressive load is
increased from 1 cm to 2 cm, other parameters remaining same, then deflection will
decrease by a factor of: [GATE-2002]
(a) 16 (b) 8 (c) 4 (d) 2

GATE-2. A compression spring is made of music wire of 2 mm diameter having a shear strength
and shear modulus of 800 MPa and 80 GPa respectively. The mean coil diameter is 20
mm, free length is 40 mm and the number of active coils is 10. If the mean coil diameter
is reduced to 10 mm, the stiffness of the spring is approximately [GATE-2008]
(a) Decreased by 8 times (b) Decreased by 2 times
(c) Increased by 2 times (d) Increased by 8 times

GATE-3. Two helical tensile springs of the same material and also having identical mean coil
diameter and weight, have wire diameters d and d/2. The ratio of their stiffness is:[GATE-2001]
(a) 1 (b) 4 (c) 64 (d) 128

GATE-4. A uniform stiff rod of length 300 mm and

having a weight of 300 N is pivoted at
one end and connected to a spring at the
other end. For keeping the rod vertical in
a stable position the minimum value of
spring constant K needed is:
(a) 300 N/m (b) 400N/m
(c) 500N/m (d) 1000 N/m

[GATE-2004]

GATE-5. A weighing machine consists of a 2 kg pan resting on spring. In this condition, with the
pan resting on the spring, the length of the spring is 200 mm. When a mass of 20 kg is
placed on the pan, the length of the spring becomes 100 mm. For the spring, the un-
deformed length lo and the spring constant k (stiffness) are: [GATE-2005]
(a) lo = 220 mm, k = 1862 N/m (b) lo = 210 mm, k = 1960 N/m
(c) lo = 200 mm, k = 1960 N/m (d) lo = 200 mm, k = 2156 N/m

Springs in Series
GATE-6. The deflection of a spring with 20 active turns under a load of 1000 N is 10 mm. The
spring is made into two pieces each of 10 active coils and placed in parallel under the
same load. The deflection of this system is: [GATE-1995]
(a) 20 mm (b) 10 mm (c) 5 mm (d) 2.5 mm

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Helical spring
IES-1. A helical coil spring with wire diameter d and coil diameter 'D' is subjected to external
load. A constant ratio of d and D has to be maintained, such that the extension of spring
is independent of d and D. What is this ratio? [IES-2008]
4/3 4/3
D d
(a)D3 / d4 (b)d3 / D4 (c) 3 (d) 3
d D

IES-1(i). If both the mean coil diameter and wire diameter of a helical compression or tension
spring be doubled, then the deflection of the spring close coiled under same applied load
will [IES-2012]
(a) be doubled (b) be halved
(c) increase four times (d) get reduced to one fourth

IES-2. Assertion (A): Concentric cylindrical helical springs are used to have greater spring force
in a limited space. [IES-2006]
Reason (R): Concentric helical springs are wound in opposite directions to prevent
locking of coils under heavy dynamic loading.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-3. Assertion (A): Two concentric helical springs used to provide greater spring force are
wound in opposite directions. [IES-1995; IAS-2004]
Reason (R): The winding in opposite directions in the case of helical springs prevents
buckling.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-4. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IES-1996; 2007; IAS-1997]
If a helical spring is halved in length, its spring stiffness
(a) Remains same (b) Halves (c) Doubles (d) Triples

IES-5. A body having weight of 1000 N is dropped from a height of 10 cm over a close-coiled
helical spring of stiffness 200 N/cm. The resulting deflection of spring is nearly[IES-2001]
(a) 5 cm (b) 16 cm (c) 35 cm (d) 100 cm

IES-6. A close-coiled helical spring is made of 5 mm diameter wire coiled to 50 mm mean

diameter. Maximum shear stress in the spring under the action of an axial force is 20
N/mm2. The maximum shear stress in a spring made of 3 mm diameter wire coiled to 30
mm mean diameter, under the action of the same force will be nearly [IES-2001]
(a) 20 N/mm2 (b) 33.3 N/mm2 (c) 55.6 N/mm2 (d) 92.6 N/mm2

IES-7. A closely-coiled helical spring is acted upon by an axial force. The maximum shear stress
developed in the spring is t . Half of the length of the spring is cut off and the remaining
spring is acted upon by the same axial force. The maximum shear stress in the spring
the new condition will be: [IES-1995]
(a) t (b) t (c) 2 t (d) 4 t

IES-8. The maximum shear stress occurs on the outermost fibers of a circular shaft under
torsion. In a close coiled helical spring, the maximum shear stress occurs on the[IES-1999]
(a) Outermost fibres (b) Fibres at mean diameter (c) Innermost fibres (d) End coils

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
IES-9. A helical spring has N turns of coil of diameter D, and a second spring, made of same
wire diameter and of same material, has N/2 turns of coil of diameter 2D. If the stiffness
of the first spring is k, then the stiffness of the second spring will be: [IES-1999]
(a) k/4 (b) k/2 (c) 2k (d) 4k

IES-10. A closed-coil helical spring is subjected to a torque about its axis. The spring wire would
experience a [IES-1996; 1998]
(a) Bending stress
(b) Direct tensile stress of uniform intensity at its cross-section
(c) Direct shear stress
(d) Torsional shearing stress

IES-11. Given that: [IES-1996]

d = diameter of spring, R = mean radius of coils, n = number of coils and G = modulus of
rigidity, the stiffness of the close-coiled helical spring subject to an axial load W is equal
to
Gd 4 Gd 3 Gd 4 Gd 4
(a) (b) (c) (d)
64 R 3 n 64 R 3 n 32 R 3 n 64 R 2 n

IES-12. A closely coiled helical spring of 20 cm mean diameter is having 25 coils of 2 cm diameter
rod. The modulus of rigidity of the material if 107 N/cm2. What is the stiffness for the
spring in N/cm? [IES-2004]
(a) 50 (b) 100 (c) 250 (d) 500

IES-13. Which one of the following expresses the stress factor K used for design of closed coiled
helical spring? [IES-2008]
4C 4 4C 1 0.615 4C 4 0.615 4C 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4C 1 4C 4 C 4C 1 C 4C 4
Where C = spring index

IES-14. In the calculation of induced shear stress in helical springs, the Wahl's correction factor
is used to take care of [IES-1995; 1997]
(a) Combined effect of transverse shear stress and bending stresses in the wire.
(b) Combined effect of bending stress and curvature of the wire.
(c) Combined effect of transverse shear stress and curvature of the wire.
(d) Combined effect of torsional shear stress and transverse shear stress in the wire.

IES-15. While calculating the stress induced in a closed coil helical spring, Wahl's factor must be
considered to account for [IES-2002]
(a) The curvature and stress concentration effect (b) Shock loading
(c) Poor service conditions (d) Fatigue loading

IES-16. Cracks in helical springs used in Railway carriages usually start on the inner side of the
coil because of the fact that [IES-1994]
(a) It is subjected to the higher stress than the outer side.
(b) It is subjected to a higher cyclic loading than the outer side.
(c) It is more stretched than the outer side during the manufacturing process.
(d) It has a lower curvature than the outer side.

IES-17. Two helical springs of the same material and of equal circular cross-section and length
and number of turns, but having radii 20 mm and 40 mm, kept concentrically (smaller
radius spring within the larger radius spring), are compressed between two parallel
planes with a load P. The inner spring will carry a load equal to [IES-1994]
(a) P/2 (b) 2P/3 (c) P/9 (d) 8P/9

IES-18. A length of 10 mm diameter steel wire is coiled to a close coiled helical spring having 8
coils of 75 mm mean diameter, and the spring has a stiffness K. If the same length of
wire is coiled to 10 coils of 60 mm mean diameter, then the spring stiffness will be:[IES-1993]
(a) K (b) 1.25 K (c) 1.56 K (d) 1.95 K

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
IES-18a. Two equal lengths of steel wires of the same diameter are made into two springs S1 and
S2 of mean diameters 75 mm and 60 mm respectively. The stiffness ratio of S1 to S2 is
[IES-2011]
2 3 2 3
60 60 75 75
(a) (b) (c ) (d )
75 75 60 60

IES-19. A spring with 25 active coils cannot be accommodated within a given space. Hence 5 coils
of the spring are cut. What is the stiffness of the new spring?
(a) Same as the original spring (b) 1.25 times the original spring [IES-2004, 2012]
(c) 0.8 times the original spring (d) 0.5 times the original spring

IES-20. Wire diameter, mean coil diameter and number of turns of a closely-coiled steel spring
are d, D and N respectively and stiffness of the spring is K. A second spring is made of
same steel but with wire diameter, mean coil diameter and number of turns 2d, 2D and
2N respectively. The stiffness of the new spring is:
[IES-1998; 2001]
(a) K (b) 2K (c) 4K (d) 8K

IES-21. When two springs of equal lengths are arranged to form cluster springs which of the
following statements are the: [IES-1992]
1. Angle of twist in both the springs will be equal
2. Deflection of both the springs will be equal
3. Load taken by each spring will be half the total load
4. Shear stress in each spring will be equal
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2 and 4 only

IES-22. Consider the following statements: [IES-2009]

When two springs of equal lengths are arranged to form a cluster spring
1. Angle of twist in both the springs will be equal
2. Deflection of both the springs will be equal
3. Load taken by each spring will be half the total load
4. Shear stress in each spring will be equal
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 3 and 4 (c)2 only (d) 4 only

Close-coiled helical spring with axial load

IES-23. Under axial load, each section of a close-coiled helical spring is subjected to
(a) Tensile stress and shear stress due to load [IES-2003]
(b) Compressive stress and shear stress due to torque
(c) Tensile stress and shear stress due to torque
(d) Torsional and direct shear stresses

IES-24. When a weight of 100 N falls on a spring of stiffness 1 kN/m from a height of 2 m, the
deflection caused in the first fall is: [IES-2000]
(a) Equal to 0.1 m (b) Between 0.1 and 0.2 m
(c) Equal to 0.2 m (d) More than 0.2 m

Subjected to 'Axial twist'

IES-25. A closed coil helical spring of mean coil diameter 'D' and made from a wire of diameter 'd'
is subjected to a torque 'T' about the axis of the spring. What is the maximum stress
developed in the spring wire? [IES-2008]
8T 16T 32T 64T
(a) 3 (b) 3 (c) 3 (d) 3
d d d d

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
Springs in Series
IES-26. When a helical compression spring is cut into two equal halves, the stiffness of each of
the result in springs will be: [IES-2002; IAS-2002]
(a) Unaltered (b) Double (c) One-half (d) One-fourth

IES-27. If a compression coil spring is cut into two equal parts and the parts are then used in
parallel, the ratio of the spring rate to its initial value will be: [IES-1999]
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 4 (d) Indeterminable for want of sufficient data

Springs in Parallel
IES-28. The equivalent spring stiffness for the
system shown in the given figure (S is the
spring stiffness of each of the three springs)
is:
(a) S/2 (b) S/3
(c) 2S/3 (d) S

[IES-1997; IAS-2001]
IES-29. Two coiled springs, each having stiffness K, are placed in parallel. The stiffness of the
combination will be: [IES-2000]
K K
a 4K b 2K c d
2 4

IES-30. A mass is suspended at the bottom of two springs in series having stiffness 10 N/mm and
5 N/mm. The equivalent spring stiffness of the two springs is nearly
[IES-2000]
(a) 0.3 N/mm (b) 3.3 N/mm (c) 5 N/mm (d) 15 N/mm

IES-31. Figure given above shows a spring-

mass system where the mass m is fixed
in between two springs of stiffness S1
and S2. What is the equivalent spring
stiffness?
(a) S1- S2 (b) S1+ S2

(c) (S1+ S2)/ S1 S2 (d) (S1- S2)/

S1 S2

[IES-2005]
IES-32. Two identical springs
labelled as 1 and 2 are
arranged in series and
subjected to force F as
shown in the given figure.

Assume that each spring constant is K. The strain energy stored in spring 1 is:

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
[IES-2001]
2 2 2 2
F F F F
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2K 4K 8K 16 K

IES-33. What is the equivalent stiffness (i.e. spring constant) of

the system shown in the given figure?
(a) 24 N/mm (b) 16 N/mm
(c) 4 N/mm (d) 5.3 N/mm

[IES-1997]

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Helical spring
IAS-1. Assertion (A): Concentric cylindrical helical springs which are used to have greater
spring force in a limited space is wound in opposite directions.
Reason (R): Winding in opposite directions prevents locking of the two coils in case of
misalignment or buckling. [IAS-1996]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-2. An open-coiled helical spring of mean diameter D, number of coils N and wire diameter d
is subjected to an axial force' P. The wire of the spring is subject to:
[IAS-1995]
(a) direct shear only (b) combined shear and bending only
(c) combined shear, bending and twisting (d) combined shear and twisting only

IAS-3. Assertion (A): Two concentric helical springs used to provide greater spring force are
wound in opposite directions. [IES-1995; IAS-2004]
Reason (R): The winding in opposite directions in the case of helical springs prevents
buckling.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-4. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IES-1996; 2007; IAS-1997]
If a helical spring is halved in length, its spring stiffness
(a) Remains same (b) Halves (c) Doubles (d) Triples

IAS-5. A closed coil helical spring has 15 coils. If five coils of this spring are removed by cutting,
the stiffness of the modified spring will: [IAS-2004]
(a) Increase to 2.5 times (b) Increase to 1.5 times
(c) Reduce to 0.66 times (d) Remain unaffected

IAS-6. A close-coiled helical spring has wire diameter 10 mm and spring index 5. If the spring
contains 10 turns, then the length of the spring wire would be: [IAS-2000]
(a) 100 mm (b) 157 mm (c) 500 mm (d) 1570 mm

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
IAS-7. Consider the following types of stresses: [IAS-1996]
1. torsional shear 2. Transverse direct shear 3. Bending stress
The stresses, that are produced in the wire of a close-coiled helical spring subjected to an
axial load, would include
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3

IAS-8. Two close-coiled springs are subjected to the same axial force. If the second spring has
four times the coil diameter, double the wire diameter and double the number of coils of
the first spring, then the ratio of deflection of the second spring to that of the first will
be: [IAS-1998]
1
(a) 8 (b) 2 (c) (d) 1/16
2
IAS-9. A block of weight 2 N falls from a height of 1m on the top of a spring If the spring gets
compressed by 0.1 m to bring the weight momentarily to rest, then the spring constant
would be: [IAS-2000]
(a) 50 N/m (b) 100 N/m (c) 200N/m (d) 400N/m

IAS-10. The springs of a chest expander are 60 cm long when unstretched. Their stiffness is 10
N/mm. The work done in stretching them to 100 cm is: [IAS-1996]
(a) 600 Nm (b) 800 Nm (c) 1000 Nm (d) 1600 Nm

IAS-11. A spring of stiffness 'k' is extended from a displacement x1 to a displacement x 2 the work
done by the spring is: [IAS-1999]
x x
2
1 2 1 2 1 1
(a) k x1 k x2 (b) k ( x1 x2 )2 (c) k ( x1 x2 )2 (d) k 1 2
2 2 2 2 2

IAS-12. A spring of stiffness 1000 N/m is stretched initially by 10 cm from the undeformed
position. The work required to stretch it by another 10 cm is:
[IAS-1995]
(a) 5 Nm (b) 7 Nm (c) 10 Nm (d) 15 Nm.

Springs in Series
IAS-13. When a helical compression spring is cut into two equal halves, the stiffness of each of
the result in springs will be: [IES-2002; IAS-2002]
(a) Unaltered (b) Double (c) One-half (d) One-fourth

IAS-14. The length of the chest-expander spring when it is un-stretched, is 0.6 m and its stiffness
is 10 N/mm. The work done in stretching it to 1m will be: [IAS-2001]
(a) 800 J (b) 1600 J (c) 3200 J (d) 6400 J

Springs in Parallel
IAS-15. The equivalent spring stiffness for the
system shown in the given figure (S is the
spring stiffness of each of the three springs)
is:
(a) S/2 (b) S/3
(c) 2S/3 (d) S

[IES-1997; IAS-2001]

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
IAS-16. Two identical springs, each of stiffness K, are
assembled as shown in the given figure. The
combined stiffness of the assembly is:
(a) K2 (b) 2K
(c) K (d) (1/2)K

[IAS-1998]

Flat spiral Spring

IAS-17. Mach List-I (Type of spring) with List-II (Application) and select the correct answer:[IAS-2000]
List-I List-II
A. Leaf/Helical springs 1. Automobiles/Railways coachers
B. Spiral springs 2. Shearing machines
C. Belleville springs 3. Watches
Codes: A B C A B C
(a) 1 2 3 (b) 1 3 2
(c) 3 1 2 (d) 2 3 1

Semi-elliptical spring
IAS-18. The ends of the leaves of a semi-elliptical leaf spring are made triangular in plain in
order to: [IAS 1994]
(a) Obtain variable I in each leaf
(b) Permit each leaf to act as a overhanging beam
(c) Have variable bending moment in each leaf
(d) Make Mil constant throughout the length of the leaf.

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
8PD3N
GATE-1. Ans. (a)
G.d4
P G.d 4 1
GATE-2. Ans. (d) Spring constant (K) = or K
8D 3 N D3
3
K 2 D1 20
3

8
K1 D2 10
P G.d 4 d4
GATE-3. Ans. (c) Spring constant (K) = Therefore k
8D 3 N n

GATE-4. Ans. (c) Inclined it to a very low angle, d

For equilibrium taking moment about hinge
l W 300
W d k ld l 0 or k 500N / m
2 2l 2 0.3
GATE-5. Ans. (b) Initial length = lo m and stiffness = k N/m

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
2 g k lo 0.2
2 g 20 g k lo 0.1
Just solve the above equations.
GATE-6. Ans. (d) When a spring is cut into two, no. of coils gets halved.
Stiffness of each half gets doubled.
When these are connected in parallel, stiffness = 2k + 2k = 4k
Therefore deflection will be times. = 2.5 mm

IES
8PD3N
IES-1. Ans. (a)
Gd4
D 1
T F ; U T
2 2
FD TL
= ;
2 GJ
L DN
2
1 FD L 4F2D3N
U
2 2 GJ Gd4
U 8FD3N

F Gd4
IES-1(i). Ans. (b)

IES-2. Ans. (b)

IES-3. Ans. (c) It is for preventing locking not for buckling.
Gd4 1
IES-4. Ans. (c) Stiffness of sprin k 3
so k andn wiil behalf
8D n n
1 2
IES-5. Ans. (b) mg(h x) kx
2
8PD
IES-6. Ans. (c) Use k s
d3
8PD
IES-7. Ans. (b) Use k s it is independent of number of turn
d3
IES-8. Ans. (c)
Gd 4 Gd 4 k
IES-9. Ans. (a) Stiffness (k) 3
; Second spring,stiffness (k 2 ) =
N 4
64 R N 64 2 R
3

2
IES-10. Ans. (a)
IES-11. Ans. (a)

IES-12. Ans. (b) Stiffness of sprin k

7
2 4
Gd4 10 N / cm 2 cm
4

100N / cm

8D3n
8 203 cm3 25
IES-13. Ans. (b)
IES-14. Ans. (c)
IES-15. Ans. (a)
IES-16. Ans. (a)
3
W R3 20 1 Wi W 8
IES-17. Ans. (d) o i3 ; Wo So Wi i P or Wi P
Wi Ro 40 8 8 8 9

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
4
Gd
IES-18. Ans. (c) Stiffness of spring (k) Where G and d is same
64 R3n
k 1 1 1
Therefore 3
3

k2 R n 75 8 1.56
60 10
R2 n2
IES-18a. Ans. (a) But most of the students think answer will be (b). If your calculated answer is
also (b) then read the question again and see Two equal lengths of steel wires is written
n D 75
that means number of turns are different. And L D1n1 D2 n2 2 1
n1 D2 60
Gd 4
Stiffness of spring (S) Where G and d issame
64R3 n
3 3
S1 R2 n2 D2 n2 60 75 60
3 2

Therefore
S 2 R1 n1 D1 n1 75 60 75
Gd4 1 k 2 n1 25
IES-19. Ans. (b) Stiffness of spring k k or 1.25
8D3n n k1 n2 20
Gd4
IES-20. Ans. (a) Stiffness of spring k
8D3n
IES-21. Ans. (a)
IES-22. Ans. (a) Same as [IES-1992]

IES-23. Ans. (d)

1 2
IES-24. Ans. (d) use mg h x kx
2
IES-25. Ans. (b)
IES-26. Ans. (b)
IES-27. Ans. (c) When a spring is cut into two, no. of coils gets halved.
Stiffness of each half gets doubled.
When these are connected in parallel, stiffness = 2k + 2k = 4k

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
1 1 1 2
IES-28. Ans. (c) or Se S
Se 2 S S 3

IES-29. Ans. (b) W k k1 k 2

1 1 1 10
IES-30. Ans. (b) or Se
Se 10 5 3
IES-31. Ans. (b)
2
1 2 1 F
IES-32. Ans. (c) The strain energy stored per spring = k .x / 2 keq
k
/ 2 and here total
2 2 eq
force F is supported by both the spring 1 and 2 therefore k eq = k + k =2k
IES-33. Ans. (a) Stiffness K1 of 10 coils spring = 8 N/mm
Stiffness K2 of 5 coils spring = 16 N/mm
Though it looks like in series but they are in parallel combination. They are not subjected
to same force. Equivalent stiffness (k) = k1 + k2 = 24 N/mm

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (a)
IAS-2. Ans. (d)
IAS-3. Ans. (c) It is for preventing locking not for buckling.
Gd4 1
IAS-4. Ans. (c) Stiffness of sprin k so k andn wiil behalf
8D3n n
Gd 4 1 K N 15
IAS-5. Ans. (b) K= or K or 2 1 1.5
8 D3 N N K1 N2 10
IAS-6. Ans. (d) l Dn cd n 5 10 10 1570 mm
IAS-7. Ans. (b)
D2 N2

D1 N1
3
8PD N 43 2
IAS-8. Ans. (a) or 2 8
Gd 4
1 d2
4
24

d1

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
IAS-9. Ans. (d) Kinetic energy of block = potential energy of spring
1 2 2Wh 2 2 1
or W h k .x or k 2 N / m 400 N / m
2 x 0.12

1 1 10N

1 0.6 m 800Nm
2
IAS-10. Ans. (b) E kx 2 2

2 2 1
m
1000
1 1
IAS-11. Ans. (a) Work done by the spring is = k x12 k x 22
2 2
1 1
IAS-12. Ans. (d) E k x 22 x12 1000 0.20 2 0.10 2 15Nm
2 2
IAS-13. Ans. (b)
IAS-14. Ans. (a)
1 1 10N 1 10 N
k.x 2 1 0.6 m 1 0.42 m2 800 J
2
Work done =
2

2 2 1mm 2
m
1000
1 1 1 2
IAS-15. Ans. (c) or Se S
Se 2 S S 3

IAS-16. Ans. (b) Effective stiffness = 2K. Due to applied force one spring will be under tension and
another one under compression so total resistance force will double.
IAS-17. Ans. (b)
IAS-18. Ans. (d) The ends of the leaves of a semi-elliptical leaf spring are made rectangular in plan
in order to make M/I constant throughout the length of the leaf.

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question ESE-2008
Question: A close-coiled helical spring has coil diameter D, wire diameter d and number of turn
n. The spring material has a shearing modulus G. Derive an expression for the
stiffness k of the spring.

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
Answer: The work done by the
axial force 'P' is
converted into strain
energy and stored in
the spring.
U=(average torque)
(angular displacement)
T
=
2
TL
From the figure we get, =
GJ
PD
Torque (T)=
2
length of wire (L)=Dn
d 4
Polar m om ent of Inertia(J)=
32
4P 2D 3 n
Therefore U=
Gd 4
According to Castigliano's theorem, the displacement corresponding to force P is
obtained by partially differentiating strain energy with respect to that force.
U 4 p 2 D 3n 8PD 3 n
Therefore = = =
P P Gd 4 Gd 4
P Gd 4
So Spring stiffness, (k ) = =
8D3n

Conventional Question ESE-2010

Q. A stiff bar of negligible weight transfers a load P to a combination of three
helical springs arranged in parallel as shown in the above figure. The springs
are made up of the same material and out of rods of equal diameters. They are
of same free length before loading. The number of coils in those three springs
are 10, 12 and 15 respectively, while the mean coil diameters are in ratio of 1 :
1.2 : 1.4 respectively. Find the distance x as shown in figure, such that the stiff
bar remains horizontal after the application of load P. [10 Marks]
P
x

l l
Ans. Same free length of spring before loading
The number of coils in the spring 1,2 and 3 is 10, 12 and 15 mean diameter of spring 1,2
and 3 in the ratio of 1 : 1.2 : 1.4 Find out distance x so that rod remains horizontal
after loading.
Since the rod is rigid and remains horizontal after the load p is applied therefore the
deflection of each spring will be same
1 = 2 = 3 = (say)
Spring are made of same material and out of the rods of equal diameter

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
G1 G 2 G 3 G a n d d 1 d 2 d 3 d
Load in spring 1
Gd 4 Gd 4 Gd 4
P1 .....(1)
64R13 n 1 64R13 10 640R13
Load in spring 2
Gd 4 Gd 4 Gd 4
P2 .....(2)
64 R 32 n 2 64 (1.2)3 12R13 1327.10R13
Load in spring 3
Gd 4 Gd 4 Gd 4
P3 .....(3)
64R 33 n 3 64 (1.4)3 15R13 2634.2R13
From eqn (1) & (2)
640
P2 P1
1327.1
P2 0.482 P1
fr om eq n (1) & (3)
640
P3 P1 0.2430 P1
2634.2
Ta kin g m om en t a bou t t h e lin e of a ct ion P1
P2 L P3 2L P.x
0.4823 P1 L 0.2430 P1 2L P.x.

x
0.4823 0.486 P1 L ........(4)
P
t ot a l loa d in t h e r od is
P =P1 +P2 +P3
P P1 .4823P1 0.24 30P1
P 1.725 P1 ......(5)
E qu a t ion (4) & (5)
0.9683 L 0.9683 L
x 0.5613 L
1.725 P1 / P1 1.725
x 0.5613 L

Conventional Question ESE-2008

Question: A close-coiled helical spring has coil diameter to wire diameter ratio of 6. The spring
deflects 3 cm under an axial load of 500N and the maximum shear stress is not to
exceed 300 MPa. Find the diameter and the length of the spring wire required.
Shearing modulus of wire material = 80 GPa.
P Gd 4
Answer: Stiffness, K = =
8D3n
9
500 (80 10 ) d D
or , = [given c= = 6]
0.03 8 63 n d
or , d = 3.6 10- 4 n - - - (i )

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
For static loading correcting factor(k)
0.5 0.5
k=1+
= 1+ = 1.0833
c 6
8PD
We know that ( ) =k
d3
8kPC D
d2 = C = = 6
d
1.0833 8 500 6
d= = 5.252103 m = 5.252 mm
300 10 6

So D=cd=65.252mm=31.513mm
From, equation (i) n=14.59 15
Now length of spring wire(L) =Dn = 31.51315 mm =1.485 m

Conventional Question ESE-2007

Question: A coil spring of stiffness 'k' is cut to two halves and these two springs are
assembled in parallel to support a heavy machine. What is the combined
stiffness provided by these two springs in the modified arrangement?
Answer: When it cut to two halves stiffness of
each half will be 2k. Springs in parallel.
Total load will be shared so
Total load = W+W
or .K eq = .(2k ) + .(2k )
or K eq = 4k.

Conventional Question ESE-2001

Question: A helical spring B is placed inside the coils of a second helical spring A ,
having the same number of coils and free axial length and of same material.
The two springs are compressed by an axial load of 210 N which is shared
between them. The mean coil diameters of A and B are 90 mm and 60 mm and
the wire diameters are 12 mm and 7 mm respectively. Calculate the load
shared by individual springs and the maximum stress in each spring.
Gd4
Answer: The stiffness of the spring (k) =
8D 3 N
Here load shared the springs are arranged in parallel
Equivalent stiffness(k e )=k A +k B
d DB
4 3
[As N = N ] = 12 60 = 2.559
4 3

= A
K
Hear A
d D 7 90
A N
KB B A

Total load 210 N

Let total deflection is 'x' m x= =
Equivalet stiffness K A + K B

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Chapter-12 Spring S K Mondals
210 210
Load shared by spring 'A'(FA ) = K A x = = =151N
k B 1
1 + 1 +
k 2.559
A

Load shared by spring 'A'(FB ) = K B x = (210 151) = 59 N

0.5 8PD
For static load: = 1+ 3
C d






0.5 8151 0.090
( A )max = 1 +
= 21.362 MPa

90 (0.012)
3

12




0.5 859 0.060
( B )max = 1 + = 27.816 MPa
60 (0.007)
3

Conventional Question AMIE-1997

Question: A close-coiled spring has mean diameter of 75 mm and spring constant of 90
kN/m. It has 8 coils. What is the suitable diameter of the spring wire if
maximum shear stress is not to exceed 250 MN/m2? Modulus of rigidity of the
spring wire material is 80 GN/m2. What is the maximum axial load the spring
can carry?
Answer: Given D = 75mm; k = 80kN / m; n = 8
= 250MN / m2 ; G = 80GN / m2 = 80 109 N / m2
Diameter of the spring wire, d:

T = d3 ( where T = P R )
16

We know, (
P 0.0375 = 250 106 ) 16
d3 (i)

Also P = k
or P = 80 103 ( ii )
Using the relation:
8PD3n 8P ( 0.075 ) 8
3
P
= = = 33.75 1014 4
Gd4
80 10 d
9 4
d
Substituting for in equation(ii), we get
P
P = 80 103 33.75 1014 4 or d = 0.0128m or 12.8mm
d
Maximum axial load the spring can carry P:
From equation (i), we get

(
P 0.0375 = 250 106 ) 16
( 0.0128 ) ;
3
P = 2745.2N = 2.7452kN

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 13. Theories of Column
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
1. Introduction
Strut: A member of structure which carries an axial compressive load.
Column: If the strut is vertical it is known as column.
A long, slender column becomes unstable when its axial compressive load reaches a value
called the critical buckling load.
If a beam element is under a compressive load and its length is an order of magnitude larger
than either of its other dimensions such a beam is called a columns.
Due to its size its axial displacement is going to be very small compared to its lateral
deflection called buckling.
Buckling does not vary linearly with load it occurs suddenly and is therefore dangerous
Slenderness Ratio: The ratio between the length and least radius of gyration.
Elastic Buckling: Buckling with no permanent deformation.
Euler buckling is only valid for long, slender objects in the elastic region.
For short columns, a different set of equations must be used.

2. Which is the critical load?

At this value the structure is in equilibrium regardless of the magnitude of the angle
(provided it stays small)
Critical load is the only load for which the structure will be in equilibrium in the disturbed
position
At this value, restoring effect of the moment in the spring matches the buckling effect of the
axial load represents the boundary between the stable and unstable conditions.
If the axial load is less than Pcr the effect of the moment in the spring dominates and the
structure returns to the vertical position after a small disturbance stable condition.
If the axial load is larger than Pcr the effect of the axial force predominates and the structure
buckles unstable condition.
Because of the large deflection caused by buckling, the least moment of inertia I can be
expressed as, I = Ak2
Where: A is the cross sectional area and r is the radius of gyration of the cross sectional area,

Imin
i.e. kmin =
A

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
Note that the smallest radius of gyration of the column, i.e. the least moment of inertia I
should be taken in order to find the critical stress. l/ k is called the slenderness ratio, it is a
measure of the column's flexibility.

3. Eulers Critical Load for Long Column

Assumptions:
(i) The column is perfectly straight and of uniform cross-section
(ii) The material is homogenous and isotropic
(iii) The material behaves elastically
(iv) The load is perfectly axial and passes through the centroid of the column section.
(v) The weight of the column is neglected.

2 EI
Pcr = 2
Eulers critical load, le
Where e=Equivalent length of column (1st mode of bending)

4. Remember the following table

Case Diagram Pcr Equivalent
length(le)

Both ends hinged/pinned 2 EI

2

Both ends fixed 4 2 EI

2
2

One end fixed & other end free 2 EI 2

4 2

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C
Chapter-13 Theorie
es of Colum
mn S K Mo
ondals

O end fixed & other en

One nd pinned
/h
hinged 2

5 Slenderrness Rattio of Collumn

5.
2 EI
Pcr = 2
wheere I=A k 2minn
Le
2 EA
= 2
k min = leasst radius of gyration
e

kmin
Sleenderness Ratio
R = e

kmin

6 Rankine
6. es Cripp
pling Load
d
R
Rankine theoory is applieed to both
Shortt strut /column (valid up
pto SR-40)
Long
g Column (Valid upto SR
R 120)

Slend
derness ratioo

2 E Pcr
e
= ( e = critiical stress)=
=
k e A

Cripp
pling Load , P

c A
P= 2

1+ K ' e
k
c
wherre k' = Rankkine constannt = deepends on material
m & end conditioons
2 E
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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
c = crushing stress

For steel columns

1
K = for both ends fixed
25000
1
= for one end fixed & other hinged 20 e
100
12500 k

7. Other formulas for crippling load (P)

Gordons formula,

A c
P= 2
b = a constant, d = least diameter or breadth of bar

1+ b e
d
Johnson Straight line formula,

P = c A 1 c e c = a constant depending on material.
k
Johnson parabolic formulae :

where the value of index b' depends on the end conditions.

Fiddlers formula,

A
( )
2
P= ( c + e ) c + e 2c c e
C

2 E
where, e = 2

e
k

8. Eccentrically Loaded Columns

Secant formula

P ey c e P P
P

m ax = 1 + 2 sec
A k 2k EA u
P P
Where max =maximum compressive stress
M
M
P = load

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
A = Area of c/s
y c = Distance of the outermost fiber in compression from the NA
e = Eccentricity of the load
le = Equivalent length
I
k = Radius of gyration =
A
E = Modulus of elasticity of the material

P
M = P.e.Sec e
2k EA
Where M = Moment introduced.

Prof. Perrys Formula

max d e1 yc
11 = 2
d e k
Where max = maximum compressive stress
P Load
d = =
A c/s area
P Euler's load
e = e =
A c / s area
2 EI
pe = Euler ' s load = 2
e

e ' = Versine at mid-length of column due to initial curvature

e = Eccentricity of the load
e1 = e '+ 1.2e
yc = distance of outer most fiber in compression form the NA
k = Radius of gyration
If max is allowed to go up to f (permssible stress)
e1 yc
Then, =
k2
2
f + e (1 + ) f + e (1 + )
d = ef
2 2
Perry-Robertson Formula

e
= 0.003
k
e
f + e 1 + 0.003 e
k f + e (1 + 0.003 k
d = e f
2 2

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
9. ISIs Formula for Columns and Struts
e
For =0 to 160
k
y
fos
Pc =
fos pc '
1 + 0.2sec e
k 4E
Where, Pc = Permissible axial compressive stress
Pc = A value obtained from above Secant formula
y = Guaranteed minimum yield stress = 2600 kg/cm2 for mild steel
fos = factor of safety = 1.68
le
= Slenderness ratio
k
E = Modulus of elasticity = 2.045 10 kg / cm for mild steel
6 2

le
For > 160
k

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Strength of Column
GATE-1. The rod PQ of length L and with
flexural rigidity EI is hinged at both
ends. For what minimum force F is it
expected to buckle?
2 EI 2 2EI
(a) (b)
L2 L2
2 EI 2 EI
(c) (b)
2L2 2L2

[GATE-2008]

Equivalent Length
GATE-2. The ratio of Euler's buckling loads of columns with the same parameters having (i) both
ends fixed, and (ii) both ends hinged is:
[GATE-1998; 2002; IES-2001]
(a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6 (d) 8

Euler's Theory (For long column)

GATE-3. A pin-ended column of length L, modulus of elasticity E and second moment of the cross-
sectional area I is loaded centrically by a compressive load P. The critical buckling load
(Pcr) is given by: [GATE-2006]
EI 2 EI EI 2 EI
(a) Pcr (b) Pcr (c) Pcr (d) Pcr
2 L2 3L2 L2 L2

GATE-4. What is the expression for the crippling load for a column of length l with one end fixed
and other end free? [IES-2006; GATE-1994]
2 2 EI 2 EI 4 2 EI 2 EI
(a) P (b) P (c) P (d) P
l2 4l 2 l2 l2

GATE-4A. The piston rod of diameter 20 mm and length 700 mm in a hydraulic cylinder is
subjected to a compressive force of 10 KN due to the internal pressure. The end
conditions for the rod may be assumed as guided at the piston end and hinged at the
other end. The Youngs modulus is 200 GPa. The factor of safety for the piston rod
is
(a) 0.68 (b) 2.75 (c) 5.62 (d) 11.0 [GATE-2007]

GATE-4(i).For a long slender column of uniform cross section, the ratio of critical buckling load for
the case with both ends clamped to the case with both ends hinged is
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 4 (d) 8 [GATE-2012]

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Classification of Column
IES-1. A structural member subjected to an axial compressive force is called
[IES-2008]
(a) Beam (b) Column (c) Frame (d) Strut

IES-2. Which one of the following loadings is considered for design of axles?
(a) Bending moment only [IES-1995]
(b) Twisting moment only
(c) Combined bending moment and torsion
(d) Combined action of bending moment, twisting moment and axial thrust.

IES-2a An axle is a machine part that is subjected to: [IES-2011]

(a) Transverse loads and bending moment (b) Twisting moment only
(c) Twisting moment an axial load (d) Bending moment and axial load

IES-3. The curve ABC is the Euler's curve

for stability of column. The
horizontal line DEF is the strength
limit. With reference to this figure
Match List-I with List-II and select
the correct answer using the codes
given below the lists:
List-I List-II
(Regions) (Column specification)
A. R1 1. Long, stable
B. R2 2. Short
C. R3 3. Medium
D. R4 4. Long, unstable
[IES-1997]
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 2 4 3 1 (b) 2 3 1 4
(c) 1 2 4 3 (d) 2 1 3 4

IES-4. Mach List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the
lists: [IAS-1999]
List-I List-II
A. Polar moment of inertia of section 1. Thin cylindrical shell
B. Buckling 2. Torsion of shafts
C. Neutral axis 3. Columns
D. Hoop stress 4. Bending of beams
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 2 1 4 (b) 2 3 4 1
(c) 3 2 4 1 (d) 2 3 1 4

Strength of Column
IES-5. Slenderness ratio of a column is defined as the ratio of its length to its
(a) Least radius of gyration (b) Least lateral dimension [IES-2003]
(c) Maximum lateral dimension (d) Maximum radius of gyration

IES-6. Assertion (A): A long column of square cross section has greater buckling stability than a
similar column of circular cross-section of same length, same material and same area of
cross-section with same end conditions.
Reason (R): A circular cross-section has a smaller second moment of area than a square
cross-section of same area. [IES-1999; IES-1996]
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Equivalent Length
IES-7. Four columns of same material and same length are of rectangular cross-section of same
breadth b. The depth of the cross-section and the end conditions are, however different
are given as follows: [IES-2004]
Column Depth End conditions
1 0.6 b Fixed-Fixed
2 0.8 b Fixed-hinged
3 1.0 b Hinged-Hinged
4 2.6 b Fixed-Free
Which of the above columns Euler buckling load maximum?
(a) Column 1 (b) Column 2 (c) Column 3 (d) Column 4

IES-8. Match List-I (End conditions of columns) with List-II (Equivalent length in terms of
length of hinged-hinged column) and select the correct answer using the codes given
below the Lists: [IES-2000]
List-I List-II
A. Both ends hinged 1. L
B. One end fixed and other end free 2. L/ 2
C. One end fixed and the other pin-pointed 3. 2L
D. Both ends fixed 4. L/2
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 3 4 2 (b) 1 3 2 4
(c) 3 1 2 4 (d) 3 1 4 2

IES-9. The ratio of Euler's buckling loads of columns with the same parameters having (i) both
ends fixed, and (ii) both ends hinged is:
[GATE-1998; 2002; IES-2001]
(a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6 (d) 8

Euler's Theory (For long column)

IES-10. What is the expression for the crippling load for a column of length l with one end fixed
and other end free? [IES-2006; GATE-1994]
2 2 EI 2 EI 4 2 EI 2 EI
(a) P (b) P (c) P (d) P
l2 4l 2 l2 l2

IES-10(i). The buckling load for a column hinged at both ends is 10 kN. If the ends are fixed, the
buckling load changes to [IES-2012]
(a) 40 kN (b) 2.5 kN (c) 5 kN (d) 20 kN

IES-10(ii). For the case of a slender column of length L and flexural rigidity EI built in at its base
and free at the top, the Eulers critical buckling load is [IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

IES-11. Euler's formula gives 5 to 10% error in crippling load as compared to experimental
results in practice because: [IES-1998]
(a) Effect of direct stress is neglected
(b) Pin joints are not free from friction
(c) The assumptions made in using the formula are not met in practice
(d) The material does not behave in an ideal elastic way in tension and compression

IES-12. Euler's formula can be used for obtaining crippling load for a M.S. column with hinged
ends.

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
l
Which one of the following conditions for the slenderness ratio is to be satisfied?[IES-2000]
k
l l l l
(a) 5 8 (b) 9 18 (c) 19 40 (d) 80
k k k k

IES-13. If one end of a hinged column is made fixed and the other free, how much is the critical
load compared to the original value? [IES-2008]
(a) (b) (c) Twice (d) Four times

IES-14. If one end of a hinged column is made fixed and the other free, how much is the critical
load compared to the original value? [IES-2008]
(a) (b) (c) Twice (d) Four times

IES-15. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the
Lists: [IES-1995; 2007; IAS-1997]
List-I (Long Column) List-II (Critical Load)
A. Both ends hinged 1. 2EI/4l2
B. One end fixed, and other end free 2. 4 2EI/ l2
C. Both ends fixed 3. 2 2EI/ l2
D. One end fixed, and other end hinged 4. 2EI/ l2
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 2 1 4 3 (b) 4 1 2 3
(c) 2 3 4 1 (d) 4 3 2 1

IES-16. The ratio of the compressive critical load for a long column fixed at both the ends and a
column with one end fixed and the other end free is: [IES-1997]
(a) 1 : 2 (b) 1: 4 (c) 1: 8 (d) 1: 16

IES-17. The buckling load will be maximum for a column, if [IES-1993]

(a) One end of the column is clamped and the other end is free
(b) Both ends of the column are clamped
(c) Both ends of the column are hinged
(d) One end of the column is hinged and the other end is free

IES-18. If diameter of a long column is reduced by 20%, the percentage of reduction in Euler
buckling load is: [IES-2001, 2012]
(a) 4 (b) 36 (c) 49 (d) 59

IES-19. A long slender bar having uniform rectangular cross-section 'B x H' is acted upon by an
axial compressive force. The sides B and H are parallel to x- and y-axes respectively. The
ends of the bar are fixed such that they behave as pin-jointed when the bar buckles in a
plane normal to x-axis, and they behave as built-in when the bar buckles in a plane
normal to y-axis. If load capacity in either mode of buckling is same, then the value of
H/B will be: [IES-2000]
(a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 8 (d) 16

IES-20. The Euler's crippling load for a 2m long slender steel rod of uniform cross-section hinged
at both the ends is 1 kN. The Euler's crippling load for 1 m long steel rod of the same
cross-section and hinged at both ends will be: [IES-1998]
(a) 0.25 kN (b) 0.5 kN (c) 2 kN (d) 4 kN

IES-21. If c and E denote the crushing stress and Young's modulus for the material of a column,
then the Euler formula can be applied for determination of cripping load of a column
made of this material only, if its slenderness ratio is:
(a) More than E / c (b) Less than E / c [IES-2005]

E E
(c) More than 2 (d) Less than 2
c c

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals

IES-22. Four vertical columns of same material, height and weight have the same end conditions.
Which cross-section will carry the maximum load? [IES-2009]
(a) Solid circular section (b) Thin hollow circular section
(c) Solid square section (d) I-section

Rankine's Hypothesis for Struts/Columns

IES-23. Rankine Gordon formula for buckling is valid for [IES-1994]
(a) Long column (b) Short column
(c) Short and long column (d) Very long column

Prof. Perry's formula

IES-24. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the
lists: [IES-2008]
List-I (Formula/theorem/ method) List-II (Deals with topic)
A. Clapeyron's theorem 1. Deflection of beam
B. Maculay's method 2. Eccentrically loaded column
C. Perry's formula 3. Riveted joints
4. Continuous beam
Code: A B C A B C
(a) 3 2 1 (b) 4 1 2
(c) 4 1 3 (d) 2 4 3

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Classification of Column
IAS-1. Mach List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the
lists: [IAS-1999]
List-I List-II
A. Polar moment of inertia of section 1. Thin cylindrical shell
B. Buckling 2. Torsion of shafts
C. Neutral axis 3. Columns
D. Hoop stress 4. Bending of beams
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 2 1 4 (b) 2 3 4 1
(c) 3 2 4 1 (d) 2 3 1 4

Strength of Column
IAS-2. Assertion (A): A long column of square cross-section has greater buckling stability than
that of a column of circular cross-section of same length, same material, same end
conditions and same area of cross-section. [IAS-1998]
Reason (R): The second moment of area of a column of circular cross-section is smaller
than that of a column of square cross section having the same area.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-3. Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched? [IAS-2003]
(a) Slenderness ratio : The ratio of length of the column to the least radius of gyration
(b) Buckling factor : The ratio of maximum load to the permissible axial load on the
column

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
(c) Short column : A column for which slenderness ratio < 32
(d) Strut : A member of a structure in any position and carrying an axial
compressive load

Equivalent Length
IAS-4. A column of length 'I' is fixed at its both ends. The equivalent length of the column is:[IAS-1995]
(a) 2 l (b) 0.5 l (c) 2 l (d) l

IAS-5. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IAS-2000]

(a) Euler's formula holds good only for short columns
(b) A short column is one which has the ratio of its length to least radius of gyration
greater than 100
(c) A column with both ends fixed has minimum equivalent or effective length
(d) The equivalent length of a column with one end fixed and other end hinged is half
of its actual length

Euler's Theory (For long column)

4 2 EI
IAS-6. For which one of the following columns, Euler buckling load = ?
l2
(a) Column with both hinged ends [IAS-1999; 2004]
(b) Column with one end fixed and other end free
(c) Column with both ends fixed
(d) Column with one end fixed and other hinged

IAS-7. Assertion (A): Buckling of long columns causes plastic deformation. [IAS-2001]
Reason (R): In a buckled column, the stresses do not exceed the yield stress.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IAS-8. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the
Lists: [IES-1995; 2007; IAS-1997]
List-I (Long Column) List-II (Critical Load)
A. Both ends hinged 1. 2EI/4l2
B. One end fixed, and other end free 2. 4 2EI/ l 2
C. Both ends fixed 3. 2 2EI/ l 2
D. One end fixed, and other end hinged 4. 2EI/ l 2
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 2 1 4 3 (b) 4 1 2 3
(c) 2 3 4 1 (d) 4 3 2 1

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (b) Axial component of the force FPQ = F Sin 450
2 EI
We know for both end fixed column buckling load (P) =
L2
2p 2EI
and Fsin450 = P or F=
L2
GATE-2. Ans. (b) Eulers buckling loads of columns
4 2EI
1 both ends fixed 2
l
2EI
2 both ends hinged 2
l
GATE-3. Ans. (d)
GATE-4. Ans. (b)
GATE-4A. Ans. (c)

GATE-4(i). Ans. (c)

IES
IES-1. Ans. (d) A machine part subjected to an axial compressive force is called a strut. A strut may
be horizontal, inclined or even vertical. But a vertical strut is known as a column, pillar
or stanchion.
The term column is applied to all such members except those in which failure would be
by simple or pure compression. Columns can be categorized then as:
1. Long column with central loading
2. Intermediate-length columns with central loading
3. Columns with eccentric loading
4. Struts or short columns with eccentric loading
IES-2. Ans. (a) Axle is a non-rotating member used for supporting rotating wheels etc. and do not
transmit any torque. Axle must resist forces applied laterally or transversely to their
axes. Such members are called beams.
IES-2a Ans. (a) Axle is a non-rotating member used for supporting rotating wheels etc. and
do not transmit any torque. Axle must resist forces applied laterally or transversely
to their axes. Such members are called beams.
IES-3. Ans. (b)
IES-4. Ans. (b)
IES-5. Ans. (a)
IES-6. Ans. (a)
IES-7. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
IES-8. Ans. (b)
IES-9. Ans. (b) Eulers buckling loads of columns
4 2EI
1 both ends fixed 2
l
2EI
2 both ends hinged 2
l
IES-10. Ans. (b)
IES-10(i). Ans. (a)
IES-10(ii). Ans. (d)
IES-11. Ans. (c)
IES-12. Ans. (d)
IES-13. Ans. (a) Critical Load for both ends hinged = 2EI/ l 2
And Critical Load for one end fixed, and other end free = 2EI/4l2
2
EI
IES-14. Ans. (a) Original load =
I2
When one end of hinged column is fixed and other free. New Le = 2L
2EI 2EI 1
New load = 2
2
Original value
2L 4L 4
IES-15. Ans. (b)
IES-16. Ans. (d) Critical Load for one end fixed, and other end free is 2EI/4l2 and both ends fixed is
4 2EI/ l 2
IES-17. Ans. (b) Buckling load of a column will be maximum when both ends are fixed
4

IES-18. Ans. (d) P

2 EI 4
4
p p d d
1

0.8d
4

P I or P d or
p

d4
d 0.59

2
L
2 EI 4 2 EI BH3 HB3 H
IES-19. Ans. (a) Pxx and P as Pxx P yy then I 4I or 4 or 2
12 12 B
2 yy 2
L L
EI
2
IES-20. Ans. (d) For column with both ends hinged, P = . If l is halved, P will be 4 times.
l2
IES-21. Ans. (a) For long column PEuler < Pcrushing
2
2EI 2EAK 2 le 2E le
or cA or cA or or E / c
le 2
le 2
k c k
IES-22. Ans. (b)
IES-23. Ans. (c)
IES-24. Ans. (b)

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (b)
IAS-2. Ans. (a)
IAS-3. Ans. (b) Buckling factor: The ratio of equivalent length of the column to the least radius of
gyration.
IAS-4. Ans. (b)
IAS-5. Ans. (c) A column with both ends fixed has minimum equivalent effective length (l/2)
IAS-6. Ans. (c)
IAS-7. Ans. (d) And Critical Load for one end fixed, and other end free = 2EI/4l2
IAS-8. Ans. (b)

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question ESE-2001, ESE 2000
Question: Differentiate between strut and column. What is the general expression used for
determining of their critical load?
Answer: Strut: A member of structure which carries an axial compressive load.
Column: If the strut is vertical it is known as column.
Compressive force
For strut failure due to compression or s c =
Area
If s c > s yc it fails.

2 EI
Euler's formula for column (PC ) =
l 2e

Conventional Question ESE-2009

Q. Two long columns are made of identical lengths l and flexural rigidities EI. Column 1 is
hinged at both ends whereas for column 2 one end is fixed and the other end is free.
(i) Write the expression for Eulers buckling load for column 1.
(ii) What is the ratio of Eulers buckling load of column 1 to that column 2? [ 2 Marks]

Ans. (i)
2 EI 2 EI
P1 rig h t
; P2
L2 4L2
For column l, both end hinged l e L
P1
(ii) 4
P2

Conventional Question ESE-2010

Q. The piston rod of diameter 20 mm and length 700 mm in a hydraulic cylinder is subjected to
a compressive force of 10 kN due to internal pressure. The piston end of the rod is guided
along the cylinder and the other end of the rod is hinged at the cross-head. The modulus of
elasticity for piston rod material is 200 GPa. Estimate the factor of safety taken for the
piston rod design. [2 Marks]
Ans.

P 20mm P

P PL 2 E I
; ; e ; Pe 2
(considering one end of the column is fixed and
A AE 2 e
other end is hinged)
Pe = Euler Crippling load
Compressive load, Pc c Are a = 10 kN

Eulers load, Pe

2 2 200 10 9 0.020 4 / 64 = 63.278 kN
2
(0.7)
Eu le r 's load
F.S =
Com pre s s ive load
63.278
F.S = 6.3
10

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
Conventional Question ESE-1999
Question: State the limitation of Euler's formula for calculating critical load on columns
Answer: Assumptions:
(i) The column is perfectly straight and of uniform cross-section
(ii) The material is homogenous and isotropic
(iii) The material behaves elastically
(iv) The load is perfectly axial and passes through the centroid of the column section.
(v) The weight of the column is neglected.

Conventional Question ESE-2007

Question: What is the value of Euler's buckling load for an axially loaded pin-ended (hinged at
both ends) strut of length 'l' and flexural rigidity 'EI'? What would be order of Euler's
buckling load carrying capacity of a similar strut but fixed at both ends in terms of the
load carrying capacity of the earlier one?
Answer: From Euler's buckling load formula,
2EI
Critical load (PC ) = 2
le
Equivalent length (l e ) = l for both end hinged = l for both end fixed.
2
2EI
So for both end hinged (Pc )beh = 2
l
2EI 4 2EI
and for both fixed (Pc )bef = 2
=
l2
(l 2)
Conventional Question ESE-1996
Question: Euler's critical load for a column with both ends hinged is found as 40 kN. What would
be the change in the critical load if both ends are fixed?
Answer: We know that Euler's critical laod,
2 EI
PEuler= [Where E = modulus of elasticity, I = least moment of inertia
l 2e
l e = equivalent length ]
For both end hinged ( l e) = l
And For both end fixed ( l e) = l /2
2EI
\ (PEuler )b.e.h. = =40kN(Given)
l2
2EI 2EI
and (PEuler )b.e.F . = = 4 = 4 40 = 160 kN
( l / 2)2 l2

Conventional Question ESE-1999

Question: A hollow cast iron column of 300 mm external diameter and 220 mm internal diameter
is used as a column 4 m long with both ends hinged. Determine the safe compressive
load the column can carry without buckling using Euler's formula and Rankine's
formula
E = 0.7105 N/mm2, FOS = 4, Rankine constant (a) = 1/1600
Crushing Stress ( c ) = 567 N/mm2
Answer: Given outer diameter of column (D) = 300 mm = 0.3 m.
Inner diameter of the column (d) = 220 mm = 0.22 m.
Length of the column ( l ) = 4 m
End conditions is both ends hinged. Therefore equivalent length ( l e ) = l = 4 m.
Yield crushing stress ( c ) = 567 MPa = 567106 N/m2
Rankine constant (a) = 1/ 1600 and E = 0.7105 N/mm2 = 70 x 109 N/m2

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
0.3 4 0.224 = 2.826 104 m 4
Moment of Inertia(I) = (D 4 d 4 ) =
64 64

I 64
(D 4 d 4 ) D 2 + d 2 0.32 + 0.222
Slenderness ratio(k)= = = = = 0.093m
A 2 16 16
(D d ) 2

4
2
Area(A) = (D d 2 ) = (0.32 0.222 ) = 0.03267 m 2
4 4
(i) Euler's buckling load, PEuler
2EI 2 (70 109 ) (2.826 104 )
PEuler = = = 12.2MN
A 2e 42
PEuler 12.2
Safe load = = = 3.05 MN
fos 4
(ii)Rankine's buckling load, PRankine
c .A (56710 ) 0.03267
6

PRankine = = = 8.59 MN
A 4
2 2
1
1 + a. e 1+
k 1600 0.093
PRankine 8.59
Safe load = = = 2.148 MPa
fos 4

Conventional Question ESE-2008

Question: A both ends hinged cast iron hollow cylindrical column 3 m in length has a
critical buckling load of P kN. When the column is fixed at both the ends, its
critical buckling load raise by 300 kN more. If ratio of external diameter to
internal diameter is 1.25 and E = 100 GPa determine the external diameter of
column.
2 EI
Answer: Pc =
I e2
For both end hinged column
2EI
P= (i )
L2
For both end fixed column
2EI 4 2EI
P+300= = ( ii )
(L 2)
2
L2

Dividing (ii) by (i) we get

P+300
= 4 or P=100kN
P
Moment of inertia of a hollow cylinder c/s is
PL2
I=
64
(D4 d 4 ) = 2
E
64 (100 10 ) 3
3 2

orD d =
4 4
= 1.8577 105
100 10
2 9

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
D D
given = 1.25 or d =
d 1.25-5
1 4

or D4 1 = 1.8577 105
1.25

or D=0.0749 m = 74.9 mm

Conventional Question AMIE-1996

Question: A piston rod of steam engine 80 cm long in subjected to a maximum load of 60
kN. Determine the diameter of the rod using Rankine's formula with
permissible compressive stress of 100 N/mm2. Take constant in Rankine's
1
formula as for hinged ends. The rod may be assumed partially fixed
7500
with length coefficient of 06.
Answer: Given: l = 80 cm = 800 mm ;P = 60kN = 60 103 N, c = 100N / mm2 ;
1
a= for hinged ends; length coefficient = 0.6
7500
To find diameter of the rod, d:
Use Rankines formula
cA
P= 2
l
1+ a e
k
Here le = 0.6l = 0.6 800 = 480 mm [length coefficient = 0.6]

d4
I 64 d
k= = =
A 4
d2
4

100 d2
60 103 = 4
2
1 480
1+
7500 d / 4
Solving the above equation we get the value of d
Note: Unit of d comes out from the equation will be mm as we put the equivalent
length in mm.
or d = 33.23mm

Conventional Question ESE-2005

Question: A hollow cylinder CI column, 3 m long its internal and external diameters as
80 mm and 100 mm respectively. Calculate the safe load using Rankine
formula: if
(i) Both ends are hinged and
(ii) Both ends are fixed.
2
Take crushing strength of material as 600 N / mm , Rankine constant 1/1600
and factor of safety = 3.

Answer: Moment of Inertia (I)= (0.14 0.08 4 ) m 4 = 2.898 106 m 4
64

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C
Chapter-13 Theorie
es of Colum
mn S K Mo
ondals

Area( A) =
4
(0.12 0.082 ) = 2.8274
2 03 m 2
10

I 2.898 106
Radius off gyration (k) ( = = = 0..032 m
A 2.8274 103
c .A
PRankine = ; [ A e = equ
uivalent len
ngth]
A e
2

1+ a
k

(600 10 )(2.8274 10 )
6 3

(i) = ; [ A e = l = 3 m for both

h end hinged]
1 3
2

1+
1600 0.0
032
=2 2.61026kN N
P 26126
Safe load d (P)= Rankine = = 87.09 kN
FOS S 3
(ii) For bo oth end fixxed, A e = A = 1.5 m
2
(600 10 )(2.8274 103 )
6

PRankinee = = 714.8 kN
k
1.5
2
1
1+
1600 0.032
0
P 714.88
Safe load d (P)= Rankkine = = 238.277 kN
FOS S 3

C
Convention
nal Questiion AMIE--1997
Q
Question: A slender column is built-in att one end and
a an ecceentric load is applied at the
free end. Working from the first prin nciples fin
nd the exp pression foor the
maximum m length off column su uch that th
he deflectio
on of the fr
ree end dooes not
exceed th
he eccentriccity of load
ding.

A
Answer: Above figuure shows a slender coluumn of lengtth I. The coolumn is built in at one
e end B
and eccentric load P is applied at the
t free end A.
he deflection
Let y be th n at any secttion XX disttant x from the fixed ennd B. Let be the
deflection at
a A.
The bendinng moment ata the section XX is giveen by

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
2
dy
EI P e y i
dx 2
d2 y d2 y P P
EI 2 Py P e or 2
y e
dx dx EI EI
The solution to the above differential equation is
P P
y C1 cos x C2 sin x e ii
EI EI
Where C1 and C2 are the cons tan ts.
At the end B, x 0 and y 0
0 C1 cos 0 C2 sin 0 e
or C1 e
Differentiating equation ii we get
dy P P P P
C1 sin x C2 cos x
dx EI EI EI EI
Again,at the fixed end B,
dy
When x 0, 0
dx
P P
0 e 0 C2 cos 0
EI EI
or C2 0
At the free end A,x ,y
Substituting for x and y in equation ii ,we have
P
e cos e
EI
P e
cos iii
EI e
It is mentioned in the problem that the deflection of the free end does not exceed the
eccentricity. It means that = e
Substituting this value in equation (iii), we have
P e 1
cos
EI e 2
P 1
cos 1
EI 2 3
EI

3 P

Conventional Question ESE-2005

Question: A long strut AB of length ' l ' is of uniform section throughout. A thrust P is applied at
the ends eccentrically on the same side of the centre line with eccentricity at the end B
twice than that at the end A. Show that the maximum bending moment occurs at a
distance x from the end A,
2 - cos k l P
Where, tan(kx)= and k=
sin k l EI

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 C
Chapter-13 Theorie
es of Colum
mn S K Mo
ondals
An
nswer: Let at a distance 'x' from
L m end A defllection of the
b
beam is y
d 2y
EI = P.y
dx 2
d 2y P
o
or 2
+ y =0
dx EI
E
d 2y
o
or + k 2y = 0 k = P giiven
dx 2 EI

C.F of this diifferential equation
C
y = A cos kx + B sin kx, Where
W A & B constant.
I is clear at x = 0, y = e
It
A at x = A , y= 2e
And

e = A..................(i )
2e e cos k
s k + B sin k
2e = A cos or B =
sin k
2e e cos k
os kx +
y = e co sin kx
s k
sin
Where be ending mom ment is maximum,
dy
the deflection will be maximum so s =0
dx
dy 2e e coss k
e sin kx + k .
= ek cos kx = 0
dx sin k
2 cos k
or tan kx =
sin k
C
Convention
nal Questiion ESE-1996
Q
Question: The link of
o a mecha anism is su ubjected to axial com
mpressive fo orce. It has
s solid
circular cross-sectio
c on with dia ameter 9 mm
m and len ngth 200 mm m. The two o ends
of the linkk are hing
ged. It is made
m of stee
el having yield
y strength = 400 N/mm
N 2

and elastic moduluss = 200 kN N/mm . Calc

2 culate the critical lo
oad that thhe link
can carryy. Use Johnnon's equatiion.
A
Answer: According to
t Johnson'ss equation
y 2
Pcr = y .A 1
4 n 2
E k

d2
Hear A=arrea of crosss section= = 63.62 2 mm 2
4
d 4

I 64 d
least radiu
us of gyratio
on (k) = = = = 2.55 mm
A d 2 4

4
For both end
e hinged n=1
400 200
2

Pcr = 400 63.62 1 =15.262kN

4 1 2 (200 103 ) 2.25
C
Convention
nal Questiion GATE--1995
Q
Question: Find the shortest
s length of a hinged
h steeel column having
h a re
ectangular cross-
section 60
00 mm 10 00 mm, forr which thee elastic Euler formu ula applies. Take
yield stre
ength and modulus
m o elasticity
of y value forr steel as 2
250 MPa annd 200
GPa respe ectively.

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
Answer: Given: Cross-section, (= b x d) = 600 mm x 100 mm = 0.6 m x 0.1 m = 0.06 m2;
P
Yield strength = = 250MPa = 250MN / m 2 ; E = 200 GPa = 200 1012 N / m 2
A
Length of the column, L :
bd 3 0.6 0.13
Least area moment of Inertia, I = = = 5 105 m4
12 12
I 5 105
Also, k2 = = = 8.333 104 m 2
A 0.6 0.1
[ I = AK 2 ( where A = area of cross-section, k = radius of gyration)]
From Euler's formula for column, we have
2EI 2EI
Crushing load , Pcr = = 2
L2e L
For both endhinged type of column, Le = L
2EAk 2
or Pcr =
L2
P 2EI
or Yield stress cr = 2
A L
2Ek 2
or L2 =
(Pcr / A)
Substituting the value, we get
2 200 109 0.0008333
L2 = = 6.58
250 106
L = 2.565 m

Conventional Question GATE-1993

Question: Determine the temperature rise necessary to induce buckling in a lm long
circular rod of diameter 40 mm shown in the Figure below. Assume the rod to
be pinned at its ends and the coefficient of thermal expansion as 20 106 / 0 C
. Assume uniform heating of the bar.

Answer: Let us assume the buckling load be'P'.

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Chapter-13 Theories of Column S K Mondals
dL = L. .Vt , Where Vt is the temperature rise.
dL
or Vt =
L.
PL dL.AE
Also, dL = or P=
AE L
p 2EI
Pcr = 2 - - - (where L e =equivalent length)
Le
p 2EI dL.A.E
or = [QL e =L For both endhinged]
L2 L
p 2I
or dL =
LA
dL p 2I p 2I
Vt = = = 2
L. LA.L. L A.
Substituting the values, we get
p 4
p2 (0.040)
Temperature rise Vt = 64 = 49.350 C
2 p 4 - 6
(1) (0.040) 20 10
4
So the rod will buckle when the temperature rises more than 49.35C.

For 2013 (IES, GATE & PSUs) Page 388 of 431

 14. Strain Energy Method
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
1. Resilience (U)
Resilience is an ability of a material to absorb energy when
elastically deformed and to return it when unloaded.
The strain energy stored in a specimen when stained within
the elastic limit is known as resilience.

2 2 E
U= V o lu m e or U = V o lu m e
2E 2

2. Proof Resilience
Maximum strain energy stored at elastic limit. i.e. the strain energy stored in the body upto
elastic limit.
This is the property of the material that enables it to resist shock and impact by storing
energy. The measure of proof resilience is the strain energy absorbed per unit volume.

3. Modulus of Resilience (u)

The proof resilience per unit volume is known as modulus of resilience. If is the stress due to
gradually applied load, then

2 2 E
u= or u=
2E 2

4. Application
3 L
P2 L P2.
P2 L 4 4
U= = +

2 AE 2 (2d ) 2 E d 2 L/4 L
2. E
4 4
2d

Strain energy becomes smaller & smaller as the cross sectional area of bar
is increased over more & more of its length i.e. A , U

5. Toughness
This is the property which enables a material to be twisted, bent or stretched under impact
load or high stress before rupture. It may be considered to be the ability of the material to

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C
Chapter-14 Strain En
nergy Meth
hod S K Mo
ondals
absorrb energy in
i the plasttic zone. Th
he measure
e of toughneess is the amount of energy
absorrbed after beeing stressed
d upto the point
p of fractture.
Toug
ghness is an ability to ab
bsorb energy
y in the plasstic range.
The ability
a to witthstand occa
asional stressses above th
he yield streess without ffracture.
Toug
ghness = streength + ducttility
The materials with
w higherr modulus of toughne
ess are useed to makee components and
strucctures that will
w be expossed to sudden and impacct loads.

M
Modulus off Toughnes
ss
nit volume of materiall
The ability of un
to absorb energy
y in the plasttic range.
The amount of work per unit
u volumee
that the material can withstand
d
withoout failure.
The area
a under the entire stress strain
n
diagrram is called
d modulus off toughness,
h is a meassure of energy that can
which n UT = u f
be absorbed
a by
y the unit volume off
mateerial due to impact
i loadiing before itt
fractu
ures.

6 Strain energy
6. e in shear an
nd torsion
n
Strain energy
e per unit
u volumee, (u s ) T A

2 G 2
us = or, u s =
2G 2
Totall Strain Eneergy (U) for a Shaft in Torsion
1
U s = T
2
O B
1 T 2L 1 GJ 2 d
U s = or
2 GJ 2 L

2max 2 L 2
2G r 2
or Us = d

Case
es

2max
Sollid shaft , U s = r2L
4G

2max ( D d ) L 2max ( D + d )
4 4 2 2

Hollow shaft , U s = = Volume

4G D2 4G D2

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Chapter--14 Strain
n Energy Method
M S K Mondals
2

T
Thin walledd tube , U s = sLt
4G
w
where s = Leength of meean centre linne
2 2 n 2
GJ d GJ PR
Conical sppring , US = dx =
2 dx 2
0
.R.d ( R = Radius
GJ
R )

2 2n
P
R d (R varries with )
3
=
2GJ 0

3 P2 L
Cantilever beam
b with load
l 'p' at ennd, Us =
5 bhG

P 2 R 3 n
Helical sprring , U s = ( L = 2 Rn )
GJ

7. Strain energy in bending.

Mx
An ded by arc, =
ngle subtend EI .dxx
Sttrain energy
y stored in beam.
L
M x2
Ub =
0
2E I
.d x

2
EI
L
d 2y d 2y M
or U b =
2
0
2
dx
dx


dx 2
=
EI

Cases

P 2 L3
o Cantilever beam with a end load
l P , Ub =
6 EI
P 2 L3
o Simplly supported
d with a load e, U b =
d P at centre
96 EI
E
mportant Note
Im N
o For pu
ure bending
g
M is consttant along th
he length L
L
ML
=
EI
M 2L EI 2
U= wn =
if Misknow if curvature / L isknown
2EI 2L
o For noon-uniform bending
b
Strain energy in shea
ar is neglecte
ed
Strain energy in bend
ding is only considered.

8. Castiigliones theorem
U
= n
P
Pn
For 2013 (IES, GATE & PSUs) Page 391 of 431
Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals
U 1 M x
=
p EI Mx
p
dx

Note:
o Strain energy, stored due to direct stress in 3 coordinates
1
U= ( x ) 2 2 x y
2E
o If x = y = z ,in case of equal stress in 3 direction then

3 2 2
U= [1 2] = (volume strain energy)
2E 2k

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Strain Energy or Resilience

GATE-1. The strain energy stored in the beam with flexural rigidity EI and loaded as shown in
the figure is: [GATE-2008]

P 2L3 2P 2L3 4P 2L3 8P 2L3

(a) (b) (c) (d)
3EI 3EI 3EI 3EI

PL3
GATE-2. is the deflection under the load P of a cantilever beam [length L, modulus of
3EI
elasticity, E, moment of inertia-I]. The strain energy due to bending is:
[GATE-1993]
2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3
P L P L P L P L
(a) (b) (c ) (d )
3EI 6 EI 4 EI 48EI

GATE-3. The stress-strain behaviour of a material is

shown in figure. Its resilience and
toughness, in Nm/m3, are respectively
(a) 28 104, 76 104
(b) 28 104, 48 104
(c) 14 104, 90 104
(d) 76 104

[GATE-2000]

GATE-4. A square bar of side 4 cm and length 100 cm is subjected to an axial load P. The same
bar is then used as a cantilever beam and subjected to all end load P. The ratio of the
strain energies, stored in the bar in the second case to that stored in the first case, is:[GATE-1998]
(a) 16 (b) 400 (c) 1000 (d) 2500

Toughness
GATE-5. The total area under the stress-strain curve of a mild steel specimen tested up to failure
under tension is a measure of [GATE-2002]
(a) Ductility (b) Ultimate strength (c) Stiffness (d) Toughness

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Strain Energy or Resilience

IES-1. What is the strain energy stored in a body of volume V with stress due to gradually
applied load? [IES-2006]
E E2 V 2 2V
(a) (b) (c) (d)
V V E 2E
Where, E = Modulus of elasticity

IES-1(i). A circular bar L m long and d m in diameter is subjected to tensile force of F kN. Then
the strain energy, U will be (where, E is the modulus of elasticity in kN/m2 )
[IES-2012]
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

IES-1(ii). Statement (I): Ductile materials generally absorb more impact energy than the brittle
materials.
Statement (II): Ductile materials generally have higher ultimate strength than brittle
materials. [IES-2012]
(a) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true and Statement (II) is the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(b) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true but Statement (II) is not
the correct explanation of Statement (I)
(c) Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
(d) Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true

IES-2. A bar having length L and uniform cross-section with area A is subjected to both tensile
force P and torque T. If G is the shear modulus and E is the Young's modulus, the
internal strain energy stored in the bar is: [IES-2003]
T 2 L P2 L T 2 L P2 L T 2 L P2 L T 2 L P2 L
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2GJ AE GJ 2 AE 2GJ 2 AE GJ AE

IES-3. Strain energy stored in a body of volume V subjected to uniform stress s is:
[IES-2002]
(a) s E / V (b) sE2/ V (c) sV2/E (d) s2V/2E

IES-4. A bar of length L and of uniform cross-sectional area A and second moment of area I is
subjected to a pull P. If Young's modulus of elasticity of the bar material is E, the
expression for strain energy stored in the bar will be:
[IES-1999]
P2L PL2 PL2 P2L
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2AE 2EI AE AE

IES-5. Which one of the following gives the correct expression for strain energy stored in a beam
of length L and of uniform cross-section having moment of inertia I and subjected to
constant bending moment M? [IES-1997]
ML ML M 2L M 2L
a b c d
EI 2 EI EI 2 EI
2
IES-6. A steel specimen 150 mm in cross-section stretches by 005 mm over a 50 mm gauge
length under an axial load of 30 kN. What is the strain energy stored in the specimen?
(Take E = 200 GPa) [IES-2009]
(a) 0.75 N-m (b) 1.00 N-m (c) 1.50 N-m (d) 3.00 N-m

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals
IES-7. What is the expression for the strain energy due to bending of a cantilever beam (length
L. modulus of elasticity E and moment of inertia I)? [IES-2009]
P 2 L3 P 2 L3 P 2 L3 P 2 L3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 EI 6 EI 4 EI 48 EI

IES-8. The property by which an amount of energy is absorbed by a material without plastic
deformation, is called: [IES-2000]
(a) Toughness (b) Impact strength (c) Ductility (d) Resilience

IES-8a Resilience of material becomes important when it is subjected to :

(a) Fatigue (b) Thermal stresses
(c) Shock loading (d) Pure static loading [IES-2011]

IES-9. 30 C 8 steel has its yield strength of 400 N/mm 2 and modulus of elasticity of 2 105 MPa.
Assuming the material to obey Hooke's law up to yielding, what is its proof resilience?[IES-2006]
(a) 08 N/mm2 (b) 0.4 N/mm2 (c) 06 N/mm2 (d) 07 N/mm2

IES9a Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the
lists: [IES-2010]
List I List II
A. Point of inflection 1. Strain energy
B. Shearing strain 2. Equation of bending
C. Section modulus 3. Equation of torsion
D. Modulus of resilience 4. Bending moment diagram
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 3 2 4 (b) 4 3 2 1
(c) 1 2 3 4 (d) 4 2 3 1

Toughness
IES-10. Toughness for mild steel under uni-axial tensile loading is given by the shaded portion of
the stress-strain diagram as shown in [IES-2003]

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Strain Energy or Resilience

IAS-1. Total strain energy stored in a simply supported beam of span, 'L' and flexural rigidity
'EI 'subjected to a concentrated load 'W' at the centre is equal to:
[IAS-1995]

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals
2 3 2 3 2 3
W L W L W L W 2 L3
(a) (b) (c) (d)
40 EI 60 EI 96 EI 240 EI

IAS-2. If the cross-section of a member is subjected to a uniform shear stress of intensity 'q'
then the strain energy stored per unit volume is equal to (G = modulus of rigidity).[IAS-1994]
(a) 2q2/G (b) 2G / q2 (c) q2 /2G (d) G/2 q2

IAS-3. The strain energy stored in the beam with flexural rigidity EI and loaded as shown in
the figure is: [GATE-2008]

P 2L3 2P 2L3 4P 2L3 8P 2L3

(a) (b) (c) (d)
3EI 3EI 3EI 3EI

IAS-4. Which one of the following statements is correct? [IAS-2004]

The work done in stretching an elastic string varies
(a) As the square of the extension (b) As the square root of the extension
(c) Linearly with the extension (d) As the cube root of the extension

Toughness
IAS-5. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the
lists: [IAS-1996]
List-I (Mechanical properties) List-II (Meaning of properties)
A. Ductility 1. Resistance to indentation
B. Hardness 2. Ability to absorb energy during plastic
C. Malleability deformation
D. Toughness 3. Percentage of elongation
4. Ability to be rolled into flat product
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 4 3 2 (b) 3 2 4 1
(c) 2 3 4 1 (d) 3 1 4 2

IAS-6. Match List-I (Material properties) with List-II (Technical definition/requirement) and
select the correct answer using the codes below the lists: [IAS-1999]
List-I List-II
A. Hardness 1. Percentage of elongation
B. Toughness 2. Resistance to indentation
C. Malleability 3. Ability to absorb energy during plastic deformation
D. Ductility 4. Ability to be rolled into plates
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 2 1 4 (b) 2 3 4 1
(c) 2 4 3 1 (d) 1 3 4 2

IAS-7. A truck weighing 150 kN and travelling at 2m/sec impacts which a buffer spring which
compresses 1.25cm per 10 kN. The maximum compression of the spring is: [IAS-1995]
(a) 20.00 cm
(b) 22.85 cm
(c) 27.66 cm
(d) 30.00 cm

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
4L L 3L 4L
M 2dx M 2dx M 2dx M 2dx
GATE-1. Ans. (c) EI
=
EI
+
EI
+
EI
0 0 L 3L
L
M 2dx
3L
M 2dx L 2 4L 2
= 2 + By symmetry M dx = M dx
EI EI

EI EI
0 L 0 3L
L 3L
(Px )2 dx (PL )2 dx 4P 2L3
= 2 + =
0
EI L
EI 3EI
GATE-2. Ans. (b) We may do it taking average
P PL
3
P 2 L3
Strain energy = Average force x displacement = =
2 3EI 6 EI
U
Alternative method: In a funny way you may use Castigliones theorem, = . Then
P
U PL3 PL3
= = or U = U = P Partially integrating with respect to P we get
P 3EI 3EI
P2L3
U=
6EI
GATE-3. Ans. (c) Resilience = area under this curve up to 0.004 strain
1
= 0.004 70 106 = 14 10 4 Nm/m3
2
Toughness = area under this curve up to 0.012 strain
1
= 14 10 4 + 70 106 ( 0.012 0.004 ) + ( 0.012 0.004 ) (120 70 ) 106 Nm/m3
2
= 90 104 Nm/m3
2
W
AL W 2L
Ans. (d) U1 =
A
GATE-4. =
2E 2AE
2 3 2 3
W L W L 2W 2L3
U2 = = =
6EI 1 Ea4
6E a 4
12
2
U 4L2 100
or 2 = 2 = 4 = 2500
U1 a 4
GATE-5. Ans. (d)

IES
1 2
IES-1. Ans. (d) Strain Energy = . V
2 E
IES-1(i). Ans. (c)
IES-1(ii). Ans. (c)
1 1 1 PL 1 TL
IES-2. Ans. (c) Internal strain energy = P + T = P + T
2 2 2 AE 2 GJ
IES-3. Ans. (d)
1 1 P P L PL2
IES-4. Ans. (a) Strain energy = x stress x strain x volume = . ( AL ) =
2 2 A A E 2 AE

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals
IES-5. Ans. (d)
IES-6. Ans. (a) Strain Energy stored in the specimen
( 30000 ) 50 103 = 0.75 N-m
2
1 1 PL P2L
= P = P = =
2 2 AE 2AE 2 150 106 200 109
L
(Px)2 dx P2 x 3
L
P2L3
IES-7. Ans. (b) Strain Energy Stored = = =
0
2E 2EI 3 0 6EI
IES-8. Ans. (d)
IES-8a. Ans. (c)
1 2 1 ( 400 )
2

IES-9. Ans. (b) Proof resilience (Rp ) = . = = 0.4N / mm2

2 E 2 2 105
IES9a Ans. (b)
IES-10. Ans. (d) Toughness of material is the total area under stress-strain curve.

IAS
2
Wx
L L/2 L/2
M2 dx M2 dx 1 W 2L3
IAS-1. Ans. (c) Strain energy = = 2 = dx =
0
2EI 0
2EI EI 0 2 96EI
U U
Alternative method: In a funny way you may use Castigliones theorem, = =
P W
WL3
We know that = for simply supported beam in concentrated load at mid span.
48EI
U U WL3 WL3
Then = = = or U = U = W partially integrating with
P W 48EI 48EI
W 2L3
respect to W we get U =
96EI
IAS-2. Ans. (c)
4L L 3L 4L
M 2dx M 2dx M 2dx M 2dx
IAS-3. Ans. (c) EI
=
EI
+
EI
+
EI
0 0 L 3L
L
M 2dx
3L
M 2dx L 2 4L 2
= 2 + By symmetry M dx = M dx
EI EI

EI EI
0 L 0 3L
L 3L
(Px )2 dx (PL )2 dx 4P 2L3
= 2 + =
0
EI L
EI 3EI
2
2 1 2 1 (l )
IAS-4. Ans. (a) = E = 2 E
2E 2 2 L

IAS-5. Ans. (d)
IAS-6. Ans. (b)
IAS-7. Ans. (c) Kinetic energy of the truck = strain energy of the spring
150 103 2
2
1 1 2 mv 2 9.81
mv = kx or x =
2
= = 0.2766 m = 27.66 cm
2 2 k 10 1000
0.0125

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question IES 2009
Q. A close coiled helical spring made of wire diameter d has mean coil radius R, number of
turns n and modulus of rigidity G. The spring is subjected to an axial compression W.
(1) Write the expression for the stiffness of the spring.
(2) What is the magnitude of the maximum shear stress induced in the spring wire
neglecting the curvature effect? [2 Marks]
W Gd 4
Ans. (1) Spring stiffness, K =
X 8n D 3
8 WD
(2) Maximum shear stress,
d 3

Conventional Question IES 2010

Q. A semicircular steel ring of mean radius 300 mm is suspended vertically with the top end
fixed as shown in the above figure and carries a vertical load of 200 N at the lowest
point.
Calculate the vertical deflection of the lower end if the ring is of rectangular cross-
section 20 mm thick and 30 mm wide.
Value of Elastic modulus is 2 10 N/mm .
5 2

Influence of circumferential and shearing forces may be neglected.

[10 Marks]

Ans. Load applied, F = 200 N

Mean Radius, R = 300 mm
Elastic modules, E = 2 10 N/mm
5 2

I = Inertia of moment of cross section

bd 3
I b = 20 m m
12
d = 30 mm
20 30
3

= = 45,000 mm 4
12
Influence of circumferential and shearing force are neglected strain energy at the section.

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals

M Rd
2
R
u= 2 EI
for
4
10
0
M = F R sin
M
= R sin
F

u F R 2 sin 2 FR2
=
F
= EI d
2 EI

0

200 300
2
F R2
= =
2 EI 2 2 10 5 45000
3.14 10 3 m m.

Conventional Question GATE-1996

Question: A simply supported beam is subjected to a single force P at a distance b from one of the
supports. Obtain the expression for the deflection under the load using Castigliano's
theorem. How do you calculate deflection at the mid-point of the beam?
Answer: Let load P acts at a distance b from the support B, and L be the total length of the
beam.
Pb
Re action at A, RA = , and
L
Pa
Re action at A, RB =
L

Strain energy stored by beam AB,

U = Strain energy stored by AC (U AC) + strain energy stored by BC (U BC)
2 2
a Pb d x b Pa dx P 2b 2 a 3 P 2b 2 a 3

0 L 2 E I 0 L

. x



. x 2E I


6 E IL2

6 E IL2
P 2b 2 a 2 P L b b
2 2 2
P 2b 2 a 2
a b a b L )
6 E IL2 6 E IL 6 E IL
U 2 P L b b P L b b2
2 2 2

Deflect ion u n der t h e loa d P , y

P 6 E IL 3 E IL
Deflection at the mid-span of the beam can be found by Macaulay's method.
By Macaulay's method, deflection at any section is given by

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Chapter-14 Strain Energy Method S K Mondals
P x a
3

3
Pbx Pb 2
E Iy L b2 x
6L 6L 6
Wh er e y is deflect ion a t a n y dist a n ce x fr om t h e su ppor t.
L
At x , i , e. a t m id-spa n ,
2
3
L
P a
Pb L / 2
3

E Iy
6L

Pb 2
6L
L b2
L
2
2
6

or , E Iy
PbL 2

Pb
L 2
b 2

P L 2 a
3

48 12 48
y
P 2
48 E I
bL 4b L 2 b 2 L 2a
3

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 15. Theories of Failure
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)
1. Introduction
Failure: Every material has certain strength, expressed in terms of stress or strain, beyond

which it fractures or fails to carry the load.

Failure Criterion: A criterion used to hypothesize the failure.

Failure Theory: A Theory behind a failure criterion.

Why Need Failure Theories?

To design structural components and calculate margin of safety.

To guide in materials development.

To determine weak and strong directions.

Failure Mode
Yielding: a process of global permanent plastic deformation. Change in the geometry of the

object.

Low stiffness: excessive elastic deflection.

Fracture: a process in which cracks grow to the extent that the component breaks apart.

Buckling: the loss of stable equilibrium. Compressive loading can lead to bucking in

columns.

Creep: a high-temperature effect. Load carrying capacity drops.

Failure Modes:
Excessive elastic Yielding Fracture
deformation
1. Stretch, twist, or Plastic deformation at room Sudden fracture of brittle
bending temperature materials
2. Buckling Creep at elevated Fatigue (progressive
temperatures fracture)
3. Vibration Yield stress is the important Stress rupture at elevated
design factor temperatures
Ultimate stress is the
important design factor
2. Maximum Principal Stress Theory
(W. Rankins Theory- 1850) Brittle Material
The maximum principal stress criterion:

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Chapter--15 Theo
ories of Fa
ailure S K Mondals
Ra
ankin stated
d max principal stress theory
t as folllows- a matterial fails by
y fracturing
g when the
la
argest princiipal stress exceeds the ultimate
u strrength u in a simple tension test. That
T is, at
th
he onset of frracture, |1| = u OR |
3| = u
Crrack will sttart at the most highly
y stressed point
p in a brittle materrial when th
he largest
prrincipal streess at that pooint reachess u
Crriterion hass good experrimental verrification, even though it assumess ultimate strength is
sa
ame in comp
pression and
d tension

ure surface according

Failu g to maximu
um princip
pal stress th
heory

Th
his theory of
o yielding has
h very pooor agreemen
nt with experiment. How
wever, the theory
t has
beeen used succcessfully forr brittle matterials.
Used to descrribe fracture of brittle materials
m su
uch as cast iron
i
Liimitations
o Doesn
nt distinguissh between tension or co
ompression
o Doesn
nt depend on
o orientatiion of princcipal planess so only ap
pplicable to
o isotropic
materrials
Generalizatioon to 3-D stress case is easy:
e

3. Maximum She ear Stress

s or Stres
ss differe
ence theo
ory
(Guests or Tres
scas Theory-1868)- Ductilee Material
The Tressca Criterio
on:
Allso known as the Maxim
mum Shear Stress
S criterrion.
Yiielding will occur when the maximu
um shear sttress reaches that which
h caused yie
elding in a
simple tension
n test.

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C
Chapter-15 Theorie
es of Failure S K Mo
ondals
Recall that yield
ding of a material
m occu
urred by slip
ppage betweeen planes oriented at 45 to
princcipal stressees. This shoould indicatee to you tha
at yielding of a material depends on the
maxiimum shear stress in the material rather
r than the um normal stress.
t maximu
If 1 > 2 > 3 Then
T 1 3 = y

Failu
ure by slip (yielding)
( occcurs when the
t maximu g stress, max exceeds th
um shearing he yield

stress f as deterrmined in a uniaxial ten

nsion test.

This theory givess satisfactory

ry result for ductile ma
aterial.

Failur
re surface according
a t maximu
to um shear sttress theory
y

4 Strain Energy
4. E Th
heory (Ha
aighs Theory)
T
The theory associated
d with Haig
gh
T
This theory is
i based on the assump
ption that sttrains are re
ecoverable up
u to the ela
astic limit, and
a the
energy absorrbed by the material
m at failure
f up too this point is a single valued
v function indepen
ndent of
th
he stress system causin
ng it. The strrain energy per unit vollume causin
ng failure is equal to the
e strain
energy at thee elastic limiit in simple tension.

1 y2
U= 1 + 2 + 3 2 ( 1 2 + 2 3 + 3 1 ) =
2 2 2

2E 2E
12 + 22 + 32 2 ( 1 2 + 2 3 + 3 1 ) = y2 For 3D-
3 stress

12 + 22 2
1 2 = y2 For 2D-
2 stress

5 Shear Strain
5. S En
nergy Theeory (Disttortion En
nergy The
eory or M
Mises-Hen
nky
Theory
y or Von-M
Misses Theory)-Du uctile Maaterial
V
Von-Mises C
Criterion:
Also known as th
he Maximum
m Energy of Distortion criterion
c
Based on a more complex vieew of the rolle of the prin
ncipal stresss differencess.

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Chapter--15 Theo
ories of Fa
ailure S K Mondals
In
n simple term
ms, the von Mises criterrion considerrs the diameeters of all tthree Mohrss circles as
coontributing to
t the characterization of
o yield onse
et in isotropiic materials.
W
When the critterion is app
plied, its rela
ationship to the uniaxia
al tensile yield strength is:

Foor a state off plane stress ( 3 =0)

12 1 2 + 22 = y2
It is often con
nvenient to express
e this as an equivalent stress, e:
1 2 2 2
1/2
e = (1 2 ) + (2 3 ) + (3 1 )
2
1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1/2
or e = ( x y ) + ( y z ) + ( x z ) + 6(
6 xy + yz + zx )
2
In
n formulatin
ng this failurre theory wee used generalized Hooke's law for an isotropicc material
soo the theory
y given is only appliccable to tho
ose materials but it ca
an be generalized to
an
nisotropic materials.
m
Th
he von Misees theory is a little lesss conservativ
ve than the Tresca theoory but in most
m cases
th
here is little difference in
i their pred
dictions of fa
ailure. Mostt experimenttal results te
end to fall
on
n or between
n these two theories.
t
It gives very good
g result in
i ductile material.
m

6. Maximum Prin
ncipal Strrain Theo
ory (St. Ve
enant The
eory)
According
g to this theeory, yieldin
ng will occurr when the maximum principal sttrain just ex
xceeds the
strain at the tensile yield point in either sim n or compreession. If 1 and 2 are maximum
mple tension
and minim
mum princip
pal strains correspondin
c ng to 1 and 2, in the lim
miting case

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C
Chapter-15 Theorie
es of Failure S K Mo
ondals

7 Mohrs theory- Brittle

7. B Ma
aterial
M
Mohrs Theo
ory
Mohrrs theory iss used to prredict the fracture
fr of a material having
h diffeerent properrties in
tensiion and comp
pression. Crriterion mak
kes use of Mo
ohrs circle
at depends on , or = f(). Note the
In Mohrs circle, we note tha t vertical line PC reprresents
o planes with same but differing , which means
statees of stress on m the weeakest plane
e is the
one with
w um , pointt P.
maximu
Pointts on the outer
o circle are the weeakest planes. On thesse planes th
he maximu
um and
minim
mum princip
pal stresses are sufficien
nt to decide whether or not failure w
will occur.
Expeeriments aree done on a given mateerial to dete
ermine the states of strress that re
esult in
failurre. Each sta
ate defines a Mohrs ciircle. If the
e data are obtained
o froom simple tension,
simple compression, and purre shear, the three resu
ulting circless are adequa
ate to constrruct an
enve
elope (AB & AB)
Mohrrs envelope thus represents the locu
us of all possible failuree states.

H
Higher shearr stresses arre to the lefft of origin, since most brittle mateerials have higher stren
ngth in
compression

8 Comparison
8.
A comparison
n among thee different failure
f theorries can be made
m by sup
perposing th
he yield surfa
faces as
shown in figu
ure

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Chapter--15 Theo
ories of Fa
ailure S K Mondals

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Maximum Shear stress or Stress Difference Theory

GATE-1. Match 4 correct pairs between list I and List II for the questions [GATE-1994]
List-I List-II
(a) Hooke's law 1. Planetary motion
(b) St. Venant's law 2. Conservation Energy
(c) Kepler's laws 3. Elasticity
(d) Tresca's criterion 4. Plasticity
(e) Coulomb's laws 5. Fracture
(f) Griffith's law 6. Inertia

GATE-2. Which theory of failure will you use for aluminium components under steady loading?[GATE-1999]
(a) Principal stress theory (b) Principal strain theory
(c) Strain energy theory (d) Maximum shear stress theory

Shear Strain Energy Theory (Distortion energy theory)

GATE-3. According to Von-Mises' distortion energy theory, the distortion energy under three
dimensional stress state is represented by [GATE-2006]

GATE-4. A small element at the critical section of a component is in a bi-axial state of stress with
the two principal stresses being 360 MPa and 140 MPa. The maximum working stress
according to Distortion Energy Theory is:
[GATE-1997]
(a) 220 MPa (b) 110 MPa (c) 314 MPa (d) 330 MPa

GATE-5. The homogeneous state of stress for a metal part undergoing plastic deformation is
10 5 0

T 5 20 0
0 0 10

where the stress component values are in MPa. Using von Mises yield criterion, the value of
estimated shear yield stress, in MPa is
(a) 9.50 (b) 16.07 (c) 28.52 (d) 49.41 [GATE-2012]

GATE-6. Match the following criteria of material failure, under biaxial stresses 1 and 2 and
yield stress y , with their corresponding graphic representations:
[GATE-2011]

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
P. Maximum-normal-stress criterion L.
2
y

1
y y

y
Q. Minimum-distortion-energy criterion M.
2
y

1
y y

y
R. Maximum shear-stress criterion N.
2
y

1
y y

(a) P M, Q L, R N (b) P N, Q M, R L
(c) P M, Q N, R L (d) P N, Q L, R M

Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Maximum Principal Stress Theory

IES-1. Match List-I (Theory of Failure) with List-II (Predicted Ratio of Shear Stress to Direct
Stress at Yield Condition for Steel Specimen) and select the correct answer using the
code given below the Lists: [IES-2006]
List-I List-II
A. Maximum shear stress theory 1. 10
B. Maximum distortion energy theory 2. 0577
C. Maximum principal stress theory 3. 062
D. Maximum principal strain theory 4. 050
Codes: A B C D A B C D
(a) 1 2 4 3 (b) 4 3 1 2
(c) 1 3 4 2 (d) 4 2 1 3

IES-2. From a tension test, the yield strength of steel is found to be 200 N/mm 2. Using a factor
of safety of 2 and applying maximum principal stress theory of failure, the permissible
stress in the steel shaft subjected to torque will be: [IES-2000]
(a) 50 N/mm2 (b) 57.7 N/mm2 (c) 86.6. N/mm2 (d) 100 N/mm2

IES-3. A circular solid shaft is subjected to a bending moment of 400 kNm and a twisting
moment of 300 kNm. On the basis of the maximum principal stress theory, the direct
stress is and according to the maximum shear stress theory, the shear stress is . The
ratio / is: [IES-2000]

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
1 3 9 11
a b c d
5 9 5 6

IES-4. A transmission shaft subjected to bending loads must be designed on the basis of[IES-1996]
(a) Maximum normal stress theory
(b) Maximum shear stress theory
(c) Maximum normal stress and maximum shear stress theories
(d) Fatigue strength

IES-5. Design of shafts made of brittle materials is based on [IES-1993]

(a) Guest's theory (b) Rankines theory (c) St. Venant's theory (d) Von Mises theory

IES-5a Assertion (A): A cast iron specimen shall fail due to shear when subjected to a
compressive load. [IES-2010]
Reason (R): Shear strength of cast iron in compression is more than half its compressive
strength.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

Maximum Shear stress or Stress Difference Theory

IES-6. Which one of the following figures represents the maximum shear stress theory or
Tresca criterion? [IES-1999]

IES-7. According to the maximum shear stress theory of failure, permissible twisting moment
in a circular shaft is 'T'. The permissible twisting moment will the same shaft as per the
maximum principal stress theory of failure will be:
[IES-1998: ISRO-2008]
(a) T/2 (b) T (c) 2T (d) 2T

IES-8. Permissible bending moment in a circular shaft under pure bending is M according to
maximum principal stress theory of failure. According to maximum shear stress theory
of failure, the permissible bending moment in the same shaft is: [IES-1995]
(a) 1/2 M (b) M (c) 2M (d) 2M

IES-9. A rod having cross-sectional area 100 x 10- 6 m2 is subjected to a tensile load. Based on
the Tresca failure criterion, if the uniaxial yield stress of the material is 200 MPa, the
failure load is: [IES-2001]
(a) 10 kN (b) 20 kN (c) 100 kN (d) 200 kN

IES-10. A cold roller steel shaft is designed on the basis of maximum shear stress theory. The
principal stresses induced at its critical section are 60 MPa and - 60 MPa respectively. If
the yield stress for the shaft material is 360 MPa, the factor of safety of the design is:[IES-2002]
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 6

IES-11. A shaft is subjected to a maximum bending stress of 80 N/mm 2 and maximum shearing
stress equal to 30 N/mm2 at a particular section. If the yield point in tension of the
material is 280 N/mm2, and the maximum shear stress theory of failure is used, then the
factor of safety obtained will be: [IES-1994]
(a) 2.5 (b) 2.8 (c) 3.0 (d) 3.5

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
IES-12. For a two-dimensional state stress ( 1 2 , 1 0, 2 0 ) the designed values are
most conservative if which one of the following failure theories were used?
[IES-1998]
(a) Maximum principal strain theory (b) Maximum distortion energy theory
(c) Maximum shear stress theory (d) Maximum principal stress theory

Shear Strain Energy Theory (Distortion energy theory)

IES-13. Who postulated the maximum distortion energy theory? [IES-2008]
(a) Tresca (b) Rankine (c) St. Venant (d) Mises-Henky

IES-14. Who postulated the maximum distortion energy theory? [IES-2008]

(a) Tresca (b) Rankine (c) St. Venant (d) Mises-Henky

IES-15. The maximum distortion energy theory of failure is suitable to predict the failure of
which one of the following types of materials? [IES-2004]
(a) Brittle materials (b) Ductile materials (c) Plastics (d) Composite materials

IES-16. If y is the yield strength of a particular material, then the distortion energy theory is
expressed as [IES-1994]
1 2 2 3 3 1 2 y2
2 2 2
(a)

(b) 2
1 22 32 2 (1 2 2 3 31 ) y2
1 2 2 3 3 1 3 y2
2 2 2
(c)

(d) 1 2 1 2 3 2 1 y
2 2

IES-17. If a shaft made from ductile material is subjected to combined bending and twisting
moments, calculations based on which one of the following failure theories would give the
most conservative value? [IES-1996]
(a) Maximum principal stress theory (b) Maximum shear stress theory.
(d Maximum strain energy theory (d) Maximum distortion energy theory.

Maximum Principal Strain Theory

IES-18. Match List-I (Failure theories) with List-II (Figures representing boundaries of these
theories) and select the correct answer using the codes given below the Lists: [IES-1997]
List-I List-II
A. Maximum principal stress
theory

B. Maximum shear stress theory

C. Maximum octahedral stress

theory

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
D. Maximum shear strain
energy theory

Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 2 1 3 4 (b) 2 4 3 1
(c) 4 2 3 1 (d) 2 4 1 3

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Maximum Principal Stress Theory

IAS-1. For 1 2 and 3 = 0, what is the physical boundary for Rankine failure theory?[IAS-2004]
(a) A rectangle (b) An ellipse (c) A square (d) A parabola

Shear Strain Energy Theory (Distortion energy theory)

IAS-2. Consider the following statements: [IAS-2007]
1. Experiments have shown that the distortion-energy theory gives an accurate
prediction about failure of a ductile component than any other theory of failure.
2. According to the distortion-energy theory, the yield strength in shear is less than the
yield strength in tension.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

IAS-3. Consider the following statements: [IAS-2003]

1. Distortion-energy theory is in better agreement for predicting the failure of ductile
materials.
2. Maximum normal stress theory gives good prediction for the failure of brittle
materials.
3. Module of elasticity in tension and compression are assumed to be different stress
analysis of curved beams.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 (c) 3 only (d) 1 and 3

IAS-4. Which one of the following graphs represents Mises yield criterion? [IAS-1996]

Maximum Principal Strain Theory

IAS-5. Given that the principal stresses 1 2 3 and e is the elastic limit stress in simple
tension; which one of the following must be satisfied such that the elastic failure does not
occur in accordance with the maximum principal strain theory? [IAS-2004]
e e
(a) 1 2 3 (b) 1 2 3
E E E E E E E E

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
e e
(c) 1 2 3 (d) 1 2 3
E E E E E E E E

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (a) - 3, (c) -1, (d) -5, (e) -2
St. Venant's law: Maximum principal strain theory
GATE-2. Ans. (d) Aluminium is a ductile material so use maximum shear stress theory
GATE-3. Ans. (c)

Vs
1
12G
2 2 2

1 2 2 3 3 1 Where E 2G(1 ) simplifyand getresult.
GATE-4. Ans. (c) According to distortion energy theory if maximum stress ( t) then
or t2 12 22 1 2
or t2 3602 140 2 360 140
or t 314 MPa
GATE-5. Ans. (b)
We know that equivalent stress e

1
2
6
x y
2
y z
2
z x
2 2
xy
2
yz
2
zx

1
2
10 20 20 10 10 20 6 5 0 0
2 2 2 2

27.84 MPa
y e
Therefore Yield shear stress y
27.84
16.07 MPa
3 3 3
GATE-6. Ans. (c)
IES-1. Ans. (d)
IES-2. Ans. (d) For pure shear t = s x

IES-3. Ans. (c)

16
d3
M M2 T2 and
16
d3 M2 T2
M M2 T2 4 42 32 9
Therefore
M2 T2 42 32 5
IES-4. Ans. (a)
IES-5. Ans. (b) Rankine's theory or maximum principle stress theory is most commonly used for
brittle materials.
IES-5a Ans. (d) A cast iron specimen shall fail due to crushing when subjected to a compressive
load.
A cast iron specimen shall fail due to tension when subjected to a tensile load.
IES-6. Ans. (b)
16T yt
IES-7. Ans. (d) Given principal stresses for only this shear stressare
d3 2
1,2 2 maximum principal stress theory of failure gives
16 2T
max[ 1, 2 ] yt
d3
IES-8. Ans. (b)
16
d3
M M2 T2
16
d 3 and
M2 T2 put T = 0
32M
32M 16M yt d3 16M
or yt and ThereforeM M
d3 d3 2 2 d3

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
IES-9. Ans. (b) Tresca failure criterion is maximum shear stress theory.
P sin 2 P yt
Weknow that, or max or P = s yt A
A 2 2A 2
IES-10. Ans. (b)

80 0
2

30 50 N/mm
2 2
IES-11. Ans. (b) Maximum shear stress =
2
y 280
According to maximum shear stress theory, ; F .S . 2.8
2 2 50
IES-12. Ans. (c)

Graphical comparison of different failure theories

Above diagram shows that 1 0, 2 0 will occur at 4th quadrant and most
conservative design will be maximum shear stress theory.
IES-13. Ans. (d)
IES-14. Ans. (d)
Maximum shear stress theory Tresca
Maximum principal stress theory Rankine
Maximum principal strain theory St. Venant
Maximum shear strain energy theory Mises Henky
IES-15. Ans. (b)
IES-16. Ans. (a)
IES-17. Ans. (b)

IES-18. Ans. (d)

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals

IAS
IAS-1. Ans. (c) Rankine failure theory or
Maximum principle stress theory.

y
IAS-2. Ans. (c) y 0.577 y
3
IAS-3. Ans. (b)
IAS-4. Ans. (d)
IAS-5. Ans. (b) Strain at yield point>principal strain
e 1 2 3

E E E E

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question ESE-2010
Q. The stress state at a point in a body is plane with
1 60 N / m m 2 & 2 36 N / m m 2
If the allowable stress for the material in simple tension or compression is 100
N/mm2 calculate the value of factor of safety with each of the following criteria for failure
(i) Max Stress Criteria
(ii) Max Shear Stress Criteria
(iii) Max strain criteria
(iv) Max Distortion energy criteria [10 Marks]

Ans. The stress at a point in a body is plane

1 60 N / mm 2 2 36 N / mm 2
Allowable stress for the material in simple tension or compression is 100 N/mm2
Find out factor of safety for
(i) Maximum stress Criteria : - In this failure point occurs when max principal stress reaches
the limiting strength of material.
Therefore. Let F.S factor of safety
a llowa ble
1
F.S
100 N / m m 2
F.S 1.67 An s.
60 N / m m 2
(ii) Maximum Shear stress criteria : - According to this failure point occurs at a point in a
member when maximum shear stress reaches to shear at yield point

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
yt
max = yt = 100 N / mm2
2 F.S
1 2 60 + 36 96
max = = = = 48 N / mm2
2 2 2
100
48 =
2 F.S
100 100
F.S = = = 1.042
2 48 96
F.S = 1.042 Ans.
(iii) Maximum Strain Criteria ! In this failure point occurs at a point in a member when
maximum strain in a bi axial stress system reaches the limiting value of strain (i.e
strain at yield point)
2

12
+ 22
2 1 2 = allowable
FOS
FOS = 1.27
( = 0.3assume)
(iv) Maximum Distortion energy criteria ! In this failure point occurs at a point in a
member when distortion strain energy per unit volume in a bi axial system reaches the
limiting distortion strain energy at the of yield
2
yt
12 + 22 1 2 =
F.S
2
100
602 + ( 36 ) 60 36 =
2

F.S
F.S = 1.19

Conventional Question ESE-2006

Question: A mild steel shaft of 50 mm diameter is subjected to a beading moment of 1.5
kNm and torque T. If the yield point of steel in tension is 210 MPa, find the
maximum value of the torque without causing yielding of the shaft material
according to
(i) Maximum principal stress theory
(ii) Maximum shear stress theory.
32M
Answer: We know that, Maximum bending stress (b ) =
d 3
16T
and Maximum shear stress ( ) =
d 3
Principal stresses are given by:

2
b 16 M M 2 + T 2
1,2 = b + 2 =
2 2 d 3
(i ) According to Maximum principal stress theory
Maximum principal stress=Maximum stress at elastic limit ( y )
16
or 3
M + M 2 + T 2 = 210 106
d

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
or
16 1500 + 15002 + T 2 = 210 106

(0.050)
3

or T = 3332 Nm = 3.332 kNm

(ii ) According to Maximum shear stress theory
1 2 y
max = =
2 2
or , 1 2 = y
16
or , 2 M 2 + T 2 = 210 106
d3
or , T = 2096 N m = 2.096 kNm

Conventional Question ESE-2005

Question: Illustrate the graphical comparison of following theories of failures for two-
dimensional stress system:
(i) Maximum normal stress theory
(ii) Maximum shear stress theory
(iii) Distortion energy theory
Answer:

Conventional Question ESE-2004

Question: State the Von- Mises's theory. Also give the naturally expression.
Answer: According to this theory yielding would occur when total distortion energy absorbed
per unit volume due to applied loads exceeds the distortion energy absorbed per unit
volume at the tensile yield point. The failure criterion is
(1 2 ) + ( 2 3 ) + ( 3 1) = 2 2y
2 2 2

[symbols has usual meaning]

Conventional Question ESE-2002

Question: Derive an expression for the distortion energy per unit volume for a body
subjected to a uniform stress state, given by the 1 and 2 with the third
principal stress 3 being zero.
Answer: According to this theory yielding would occur when total distortion energy absorbed
per unit volume due to applied loads exceeds the distortion energy absorbed per unit
volume at the tensile yield point. Total strain energy ET and strain energy for volume
change EV can be given as

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
or
16 1500 + 15002 + T 2 = 210 106

(0.050)
3

or T = 3332 Nm = 3.332 kNm

(ii ) According to Maximum shear stress theory
1 2 y
max = =
2 2
or , 1 2 = y
16
or , 2 M 2 + T 2 = 210 106
d3
or , T = 2096 N m = 2.096 kNm

Conventional Question ESE-2005

Question: Illustrate the graphical comparison of following theories of failures for two-
dimensional stress system:
(i) Maximum normal stress theory
(ii) Maximum shear stress theory
(iii) Distortion energy theory
Answer:

Conventional Question ESE-2004

Question: State the Von- Mises's theory. Also give the naturally expression.
Answer: According to this theory yielding would occur when total distortion energy absorbed
per unit volume due to applied loads exceeds the distortion energy absorbed per unit
volume at the tensile yield point. The failure criterion is
(1 2 ) + ( 2 3 ) + ( 3 1) = 2 2y
2 2 2

[symbols has usual meaning]

Conventional Question ESE-2002

Question: Derive an expression for the distortion energy per unit volume for a body
subjected to a uniform stress state, given by the 1 and 2 with the third
principal stress 3 being zero.
Answer: According to this theory yielding would occur when total distortion energy absorbed
per unit volume due to applied loads exceeds the distortion energy absorbed per unit
volume at the tensile yield point. Total strain energy ET and strain energy for volume
change EV can be given as

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals

Substituting strains in terms of stresses the distortion energy can be given as

At the tensile yield point, 1 = y , 2 = 3 = 0 which gives

The failure criterion is thus obtained by equating Ed and Edy , which gives

In a 2-D situation if 3 = 0, the criterion reduces to

Conventional Question GATE-1996

Question: A cube of 5mm side is loaded as shown in figure below.
(i) Determine the principal stresses 1 ,2 ,3 .
(ii) Will the cube yield if the yield strength of the material is 70 MPa? Use Von-
Mises theory.
Answer: Yield strength of the material s et = 70 MPa = 70 MN/m2 or 70 N/mm2.

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
(i) Principal stress 1, 2 , 3 :
2000 1000
x = = 80 N/mm2 ; y = = 40 N/mm2
55 55
500 800
z = = 20 N/mm2 ; xy = = 32 N/mm2
55 55
x + y y 80 + 40 80 40
2

x + (32)
2
= + xy
2
=
2 2 2 2

(20) + (32) = 97.74, 22.26

2 2
= 60
1 = 97.74N/mm2 , or 97.74 MPa
and 2 = 22.96N/mm2 or 22.96 MPa
3 = z = 20N/mm2 or 22 MPa
(ii) Will the cube yieldor not?
According to Von-Mises yield criteria, yielding will occur if
(1 2 ) + (2 3 ) + ( 3 1) 2yt2
2 2 2

(1 2 ) + (2 3 ) + ( 3 1)
2 2 2
Now
= (97.74 22.96) + (22.96 20) + (20 97.74)
2 2 2

= 11745.8 (i )
2yt2 = 2 (70) = 9800 (ii )
2
and,
Since 11745.8 > 9800 so yielding will occur.

Conventional Question GATE-1995

Question: A thin-walled circular tube of wall thickness t and mean radius r is subjected
to an axial load P and torque T in a combined tension-torsion experiment.
(i) Determine the state of stress existing in the tube in terms of P and T.
(ii) Using Von-Mises - Henky failure criteria show that failure takes place
2 + 3 2 = 0 , where 0 is the yield stress in uniaxial tension,
when
and are respectively the axial and torsional stresses in the tube.

Answer: Mean radius of the tube = r,

Wall thickness of the tube = t,
Axial load = P, and
Torque = T.
(i) The state of stress in the tube:
P
Due to axial load, the axial stress in the tube x =
2rt
Due to torque, shear stress,
Tr Tr T
xy = = =
J 2r t 2r 3 t
3

J=
2
{ 4
}
(r + t ) r 4 = 2r 3t -neglecting t 2 higher power of t.
P T
The state of stress in the tube is, x = , y = 0, xy =
2rt 2r 3 t
(ii) Von Mises-Henky failure in tension for 2-dimensional stress is

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Chapter-15 Theories of Failure S K Mondals
= + 12
2
0
2
1
2
2

x + y x y 2
1 = + + xy
2

2 2

x y
2
x + y
2 = + xy
2

2 2

x x2
In this case, 1 = + + xy
2
, and
2 4
x x2
2 =
2

4
+ xy
2
( y = 0)

2 2 2
x2 x x + 2 x + x + 2 x x + 2
2 2 2
= x +
2
0
2
+ xy + 2 xy 2 xy xy
2 4 4 4 2 4
2 2 2 2 2
x + x + 2 + 2. x . x + 2
2
= x + x + xy2
+ 2. x . x + xy 2
+
4 xy xy
4 4 2 4 4 2 4
2 2
x x xy 2
4 4

= x + 3 xy
2 2

0 = x2 + 3 xy
2

Conventional Question GATE-1994

Question: Find the maximum principal stress developed in a cylindrical shaft. 8 cm in
diameter and subjected to a bending moment of 2.5 kNm and a twisting
moment of 4.2 kNm. If the yield stress of the shaft material is 300 MPa.
Determine the factor of safety of the shaft according to the maximum
shearing stress theory of failure.
Answer: Given: d = 8 cm = 0.08 m; M = 2.5 kNm = 2500 Nm; T = 4.2 kNm = 4200 Nm
yield (yt ) = 300 MPa = 300 MN/m2

(2.5) + (4.2) = 4.888 kNm

2 2
Equivalent torque, Te = M 2 + T 2 =
Maximum shear stress developed in the shaft,
16T 16 4.888 103
max = = 106 MN/m2 = 48.62MN/m2
d 3 (0.08)
3

300
Permissible shear stress = = 150MN/m2
2
150
Factor of safety = = 3.085
48.62

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16. Riveted and Welded Joint
Theory at a Glance (for IES, GATE, PSU)

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (GATE, IES, IAS)

Previous 20-Years GATE Questions

Failure of riveted joint

GATE-1. Bolts in the flanged end of pressure vessel are usually pre-tensioned Indicate which of
the following statements is NOT TRUE? [GATE-1999]
(a) Pre-tensioning helps to seal the pressure vessel
(b) Pre-tensioning increases the fatigue life of the bolts
(c) Pre-tensioning reduces the maximum tensile stress in the bolts
(d) Pre-tensioning helps to reduce the effect of pressure pulsations in the pressure vessel

Statement for Linked Answers and Questions Q2 and Q3

A steel bar of 10 50 mm is cantilevered with two M 12 bolts (P and Q) to support a static load of 4
kN as shown in the figure.

GATE-2. The primary and secondary shear loads on bolt P, respectively, are:
[GATE-2008]
(A) 2 kN, 20 kN (B) 20 kN, 2kN (C) 20kN,0kN (D) 0kN, 20 kN

GATE-3. The resultant stress on bolt P is closest to [GATE-2008]

(A) 132 MPa (B) 159 MPa (C) 178 MPa (D) 195 MPa

GATE-4. A bolted joint is shown below. The maximum shear stress, in MPa, in the bolts at A and
B, respectively are: [GATE-2007]

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals

(a) 242.6, 42.5 (b) 425.5, 242.6 (c) 42.5, 42.5 (d) 242.6, 242.6

GATE-5. A bracket (shown in figure) is rigidly mounted on wall using four rivets. Each rivet is 6
mm in diameter and has an effective length of 12 mm. [GATE-2010]

Direct shear stress (in MPa) in the most heavily loaded rivet is:
(a) 4.4 (b) 8.8 (c) 17.6 (d) 35.2

Efficiency of a riveted joint

GATE-6. If the ratio of the diameter of rivet hole to the pitch of rivets is 0.25, then the tearing
efficiency of the joint is: [GATE-1996]
(a) 0.50 (b) 0.75 (c) 0.25 (d) 0.87

GATE-7. A manufacturer of rivets claims that the failure load in shear of his product is 500 25
N. This specification implies that [GATE-1992]
(a) No rivet is weaker than 475 N and stronger than 525 N
(b) The standard deviation of strength of random sample of rivets is 25 N
(c) There is an equal probability of failure strength to be either 475 Nor 525 N
(d) There is approximately two-to-one chance that the strength of a rivet lies between
475 N to 525 N

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Previous 20-Years IES Questions

Failure of riveted joint

IES-1. An eccentrically loaded riveted
joint is shown with 4 rivets at P,
Q, R and S.
Which of the rivets are the most
loaded?
(a) P and Q
(b) Q and R
(c) Rand S
(d) Sand P

[IES-2002]

IES-2. A riveted joint has been designed to support an

eccentric load P. The load generates value of F 1
equal to 4 kN and F2 equal to 3 kN. The cross-
sectional area of each rivet is 500 mm 2.
Consider the following statements:
1. The stress in the rivet is 10 N / mm2
2. The value of eccentricity L is 100 mm
3. The value of load P is 6 kN
4. The resultant force in each rivet is 6 kN
Which of these statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4 (d) 1 and 3
[IES-2003]

IES-3. If permissible stress in

plates of joint through a pin
as shown in the given
figure is 200 MPa, then the
width w will be
(a) 15 mm
(b) 18 mm
(c) 20 mm
(d) 25 mm

[IES-1999]

IES-4. For the bracket bolted as shown

in the figure, the bolts will
develop
(a) Primary tensile stresses and
secondary shear stresses
(b) Primary shear stresses and
secondary shear stresses
(c) Primary shear stresses and
secondary tensile stresses
(d) Primary tensile stresses and
secondary compressive
stresses
[IES-2000]

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals
IES-5. Assertion (A): In pre-loaded bolted joints, there is a tendency for failure to occur in the
gross plate section rather than through holes. [IES-2000]
Reason (R): The effect of pre-loading is to create sufficient friction between the
assembled parts so that no slippage occurs.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

IES-6. Two rigid plates are clamped by means of bolt and nut with an initial force N. After
tightening, a separating force P (P < N) is applied to the lower plate, which in turn acts
on nut. The tension in the bolt after this is: [IES-1996]
(a) (N + P) (b) (N P) (c) P (d) N

Efficiency of a riveted joint

IES-7. Which one of the following structural joints with 10 rivets and same size of plate and
material will be the most efficient? [IES-1994]

IES-8. The most efficient riveted joint possible is one which would be as strong in tension, shear
and bearing as the original plates to be joined. But this can never be achieved because:[IES-1993]
(a) Rivets cannot be made with the same material
(b) Rivets are weak in compression
(c) There should be at least one hole in the plate reducing its strength
(d) Clearance is present between the plate and the rivet

Advantages and disadvantages of welded joints

IES-9. Assertion (A): In a boiler shell with riveted construction, the longitudinal scam is, jointed
by butt joint. [IES-2001]
Reason (R): A butt joint is stronger than a lap joint in a riveted construction.
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true but R is false
(d) A is false but R is true

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals

Previous 20-Years IAS Questions

Failure of riveted joint

IAS-1. Two identical planks of wood
are connected by bolts at a
pitch distance of 20 cm. The
beam is subjected to a
bending moment of 12 kNm,
the shear force in the bolts
will be:
(a) Zero (b) 0.1 kN
(c) 0.2 kN (d) 4 kN

[IAS-2001]
IAS-1. Ans. (a)

IAS-2. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below the
Lists: [IAS-2007]
List-I List-II
(Stress Induced) (Situation/ Location)
A. Membrane stress 1. Neutral axis of beam
B. Torsional shear stress 2. Closed coil helical spring under axial load
C. Double shear stress 3. Cylindrical shell subject to fluid pressure
D. Maximum shear stress 4. Rivets of double strap butt joint
Code: A B C D A B C D
(a) 3 1 4 2 (b) 4 2 3 1
(c) 3 2 4 1 (d) 4 1 3 2
IAS-2. Ans. (c)

OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
GATE-1. Ans. (c)
4 kN
GATE-2. Ans. (a) Primary (Direct) Shear load = 2k N
2
GATE-3. Ans. (b)
GATE-4. Ans. (a)
GATE-5. Ans. (b)
1000 F 250
F 250 N and z 8.8MPa
4 A (6)2
4
GATE-6. Ans. (b)

GATE-7. Ans. (a)

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals

IES
IES-1. Ans. (b)
IES-2. Ans. (d)
P = 2F2 = 2 x 3 = 6 kN
and P.L = F1l F1l = 2 F1l
or 6 L 2 4l 8l
L 8
or
l 6

Resultant force on rivet,

R = F12 +F22 +2F1F2 cos

4 3 2 4 3cos
2 2
=
5 kN

Shear stress on rivet,

R 5103
= =10 N/mm 2
Area 500
IES-3. Ans. (a) (w 10) 2 10-6 200 106 = 2000 N; or w = 15 mm.
IES-4. Ans. (a)
IES-5. Ans. (a)
IES-6. Ans. (a)
IES-7. Ans. (b)
IES-8. Ans. (c) Riveted joint can't be as strong as original plates, because there should be at least one
hole in the plate reducing its strength.
IES-9. Ans. (c)
IAS-1. Ans. (a)
IAS-2. Ans. (c)

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals

Previous Conventional Questions with Answers

Conventional Question GATE-1994
Question: The longitudinal joint of a thin cylindrical pressure vessel, 6 m internal diameter and
16 mm plate thickness, is double riveted lap point with no staggering between the
rows. The rivets are of 20 mm nominal (diameter with a pitch of 72 mm. What is the
efficiency of the joint and what would be the safe pressure inside the vessel? Allowable
stresses for the plate and rivet materials are; 145 MN/m 2 in shear and 230 MN/m2 in
bearing. Take rivet hole diameter as 1.5 mm more than the rivet diameter.
Answer: Given: Diameter of rivet = 20 mm
Diameter of hole = 20 + 1.5 = 21.5 mm
Diameter the pressure vessel, d = 6 m
Thickness of the plate, t = 16 mm
Type of the joint: Double riveted lap joint
Allowable stresses:
1 145 MN / m 2 ; 120 MN / m 2 ; c 230 MN / m 2
72 2 21.5 16
St r en gt h of pla t e in t ea r in g/pit ch , R t 145
1000 1000
0.06728 MN

2
20
St r en gt h of r iver t in t ea r in g/pit ch , R s 2 120
4 1000
0.0754 MN
20 16
St r en gt h of pla t e in cr u sh in g/pit ch , R s 2 230
1000 1000
0.1472 MN

From the above three modes of failure it can be seen that the weakest element is the
plate as it will have tear failure at 0.06728 MN/pitch load itself.
Stresses acting on the plate for an inside pressure of pN/m 2 is shown in figure.
pd p 6
H oop st r ess 187.5 p
2t 2 0.016
pd p 6
Lon git u din a l st r ess 93.75 p
4t 4 0.016
pd
Ma xim u m pr in cipa l st r ess a ct in g on t h e pla t e
2t
on ly i , e.187.5 p a s t h er e is n o sh ea r st r ess.

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Chapter-16 Riveted and Welded Joint S K Mondals
0.06728
or 187.5 p 145
72 2 21.5
0.016 1000

or p 0.7733 MN / m 2 or 0.7733 MPa
Rt 0.06728
jo int 0.4028 40.28%
p.t . t 0.072 0.016 145

Conventional Question GATE-1995

Question: Determine the shaft diameter and bolt size for a marine flange-coupling transmitting
3.75 MW at 150 r.p.m. The allowable shear stress in the shaft and bolts may be taken
as 50 MPa. The number of bolts may be taken as 10 and bolt pitch circle diameter as
1.6 times the shaft diameter.
Answer: Given, P = 3.75MW; N = 150 r.p.m.;
s b 50 M Pa ; n 10, Db 1.6 D
Sh a ft dia m et er , D :
2 N T
P
60
2 150 T
E 3.78 10 6
60
3.75 10 6 60
or T 238732 Nm
2 150

Also, T s D3
16

or 238732 50 10 6 D3
16
238732 16
D 0.28 m or 290 m m
50 10
6

Bolt size, d b :
Bolt pit ch cir cl e dia m et er , Db 1.6 D 1.6 0.29 0.464 m
D
Now, T n d b2 b b
4 2
0.464
or 238732 10 d b2 50 10 6
4 2
or d b 0.0512 m or 51.2 m m

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