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Explain the term factor of safety. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question b - 2018

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Explain the term factor of safety.

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain the term factor of safety. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question b - 2018

Step 1

Definition of Factor of Safety

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Answer

The factor of safety (FoS) is defined as the ratio of the maximum load a structure can withstand to the actual load applied. This measure ensures that structures are designed with a margin of safety against failure.

Step 2

Example Calculation

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Answer

For example, if a load of 10 kN is applied to a structure that has a maximum capacity of withstanding 30 kN, the factor of safety can be calculated using the formula:

FoS=Maximum CapacityApplied Load=30 kN10 kN=3FoS = \frac{\text{Maximum Capacity}}{\text{Applied Load}} = \frac{30 \text{ kN}}{10 \text{ kN}} = 3

Thus, the factor of safety is 3, indicating that the structure can handle three times the actual load.

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