POLYTECHNIC OF NAMIBIA

Private Bag 13388, 13 Storch Street, Windhoek, Namibia Tel: +264 (61) 207 9111 Fax: +264 (61) 207 2444
http://www.polytechnic.edu.na

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
Email azulu@polytechnic.edu.na Tel: +264 (61) 207 2514 Fax: +264 (61) 207 2142

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Engineering Mechanics 114 - Statics (AMC 110S)
Examination #1 Date: 16th March 2012 Duration: 2 hours Total marks: 60

Examiner: Mr. A. M. Zulu Moderator: Mr. E. B. J. Siepker

IMPORTANT NOTICES: Write neatly and legibly, as illegible work will not be considered for marks. If you are of the opinion that insufficient information was provided to solve a specific problem, make realistic assumptions, motivate these and continue solving the problem based on your assumptions made. Use F.B.Ds and illustrative diagrams wherever possible. Clearly show the reference Cartesian axes system used for each question. Pay attention to units and show the relevant unit in each calculated answer. No marks will be awarded for answers only. Calculations must contain a minimum number of logically sequenced steps followed by an answer. In cases where two or more different - and undeleted answers are given for the same item, the right answer will not be considered for marks. Use gravitational acceleration g = 9.81 m/s2. Answer all questions.

Question 1 The signpost of Figure Q1 is secured by two cables AB and AC. If P = 800 N; Q = 1200 N. Determine: (a) the magnitude of the resultant of forces P and Q [8]. (b) the angle between forces P and Q [3]. (c) the moment of force P about the line connecting the point where the signpost touches the ground and D [7].

Figure Q1.

Question 2 A 50-N force acts at point A on the high-pressure water cock shown in Figure Q2. Replace this force with: (a) a force-couple system, the force of which acts at point B [5] (b) two horizontal forces, one acting at point B and another acting at point C [7].

Figure Q2.

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Question 3 A 1200-kg car is being lowered slowly onto the dock at the Port of Walvis Bay using the hoist A and winch C. Determine the forces in the cables BA and BC for the position shown [11].

Figure Q3.

Question 4 The beam AB of Figure Q4 is hinged at A and has a roller support at B. The roller support is inclined at 45 to the horizontal. Determine the reactions at A and B [8].

Figure Q4.

Question 5 As an aircrafts brakes are applied, the nose wheel exerts two forces on the end of the landing gear as shown in Figure Q5. Determine the reaction at pin C and the force in strut AB [11].

Figure Q5.

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