Beams are generally horizontal structural members that transfer loads horizontally along their length to the supports, where the loads are usually resolved into vertical forces. Beams are used to resist vertical loads, shear forces, and bending moments. Different typ…

A key is a machine element fitted in an axial direction into the mating member, such as pulleys, gears. The key's primary function is to prevent the relative rotation between the shaft and mating member. In most applications, the keys' secondary function is to…

In statics, Lami’s theorem is an equation that relates the magnitudes of three coplanar, concurrent, and non-collinear forces that keep a body in static equilibrium. Lami’s theorem states that if three forces acting at a point are in equilibrium, each force is propo…

Often, materials are subject to an external force when they are used. Mechanical engineers calculate those forces, and material scientists determine how materials deform or break as a function of force, time, temperature, and other conditions. Materials scientists lear…