Comparative Tangential Stress Analyses of Curved Beams

Many researchers have attempted to find the solution to a curved beam under load. However, the stress values arrived at failed to satisfy the boundary conditions. Curved beams find critical practical applications in chain links, crane hooks, pipe bends, and curved segments of machine tool frames. Accurate determination of stresses in curved beams is essential in preventing catastrophic failure, leading to loss and reduced life of properties. In this current study, the authors used three methods: 1) advanced computational tools to compare the strength of materials (SOM), elasticity analysis (EA), and finite element analysis (FEA) of the curved beam tangential stress of various sections. The SOM analysis was performed first, in which three cross-sections were considered: rectangular, square, and circular. All crosssections showed similar inner and outer tangential stress ratios. Next came the EA approach in which two airy functions were used to calculate tangential stress, the results for which differed slightly between the square and rectangular cross-sections. Finally, the finite element analysis was conducted by using ANSYS to analyze rectangular, square, and circular 3D curved beams. In that case, all cross-sections showed similar results to the SOM approach. This study represented a unique comparison of a curved beam’s tangential stress, by comparing different sources found in various studies and articles