Equilibrium of Force System: Source: Engineering Mechanics by Ferdinand L Singer
Equilibrium of Force System: Source: Engineering Mechanics by Ferdinand L Singer
I. Introduction
Equilibrium means the resultant force and moment is equal to zero. When a body is in equilibrium,
it will have no horizontal and vertical movement and there will also be no turning or twisting, that
body is said to be on static condition. In dealing with problems involving equilibrium of force
system, it would be required to isolate a body so that its Free Body Diagram, as what is it usually
called, could be drawn considering all the external forces acting on it. These forces externally
applied can be from magnetic attraction or from its direct contact.
II. Objectives
After completion of this module the student should be able to:
It is shown in Figure 4.1 are typical free body diagrams which are usually used in dealing with
equilibrium of force systems problems consistent to the type of body that is being considered. It
will be noticed that we have to consider the forces Weight (W), Tension from cord, rope or cable
(T), Smooth Surface or Normal Force (N), Reaction from Roller Support (R) and Reaction from
Hinge or Pin Support (Fx and Fy).
In Concurrent Force System, given below are the equations that can be used. Since, resultant force
is zero summation of all the forces should also be equal to zero.
∑X=0 eq 4.1
∑Y=0 eq 4.2
Solution:
There are many ways on how are the unknown forces can be computed for Concurrent Force
System. On the first solution, the original axes x and y are used as the reference axes. The second
solution shows axes can be rotated to simplify equation and need not to equate. In the last
solution, the forces are connected to tip-to-tail direction forming a force triangle, then, interior
angles are computed and sine law is used to get the value of the unknown force.
∑F=0 eq 4.3
∑M=0 eq 4.4
Given below are the equations that can be used in considering Equilibrium on Non-Concurrent
Force System. From the equation 𝑅 = (𝑅𝑥) + (𝑅𝑦) and ∑M= Rd, it will produce equations
4.5-4.7, when the summation of all the components of the forces and the summation of moments
will be equal to zero.
∑X=0 eq 4.5
∑Y=0 eq 4.6
∑M=0 eq 4.7
The above given equations 4.5-4.7, can be used interchangeably with ∑MA=0, ∑MB=0 and ∑X=0.
As to which equation should be used first, it should be the equation where you could already solve
the value of one of the unknowns or equation which will cancel out the other unknowns to avoid
solving simultaneous equation. Any process is applicable, so long as, the unknown forces will be
determined.
Solution:
VII. Summary
In dealing with problems considering equilibrium of Force System given different Classification,
these formulas can be used.