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Define the term compressive strength in relation to the properties of materials and give one application where a material needs to be strong in compression. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question k - 2017
Question k
Define the term compressive strength in relation to the properties of materials and give one application where a material needs to be strong in compression.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Define the term compressive strength in relation to the properties of materials and give one application where a material needs to be strong in compression. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question k - 2017
Step 1
Define the term compressive strength in relation to the properties of materials
Answer
Compressive strength is defined as the ability of a material to withstand axial loads that tend to compress or squash it without breaking. It quantifies how much compressive stress a material can endure before failure occurs, usually represented in units of pressure, such as megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi). This property is crucial for materials that will experience compression forces during their application.
Step 2
Give one application where a material needs to be strong in compression
Answer
An example of an application where a material needs to be strong in compression is the legs of a chair. They must be able to support the weight of the person sitting on the chair without collapsing. Another example is the cast iron base of a pillar drilling machine, which also requires significant compressive strength to maintain stability and safety during operation.