3. Torsion

Introduction

Watch the below introductory video on torsion and how it is exploited in many mechanical devices as a means of transmitting power. The video also establishes the sign convention and notation we will be using in this course related to torsion.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit, students should be able to…

• Describe the shear stress distribution within a circular shaft under torsion
• Apply the torsion formula to calculate shear stresses under torsion
• Calculate angle of twist and relate calculation to Hooke’s Law
• Solve for stress and displacements (angle of twist) in statically indeterminate torsion  problems
• Explain why the torsion formula is not applicable to non-circular shafts
• Explain the concept of shear flow
• Calculate shear flow and angle of twist for thin walled closed section tubes