Equilibrium and Elasticity - Theory & Concepts - Torque Balance

A comprehensive overview of Equilibrium and Elasticity, covering static equilibrium, stress, strain, and material deformation.

Interactive engineering simulation

Place different masses along a balanced beam. Observe CCW and CW torques, pivot reaction forces, and translational/rotational equilibrium states.

✓ Equilibrium (Στ = 0)

Left Block Parameters (CCW)

Mass 1 (m1)20 kg

5–50

Drag for exploration or enter an exact value. Press Enter to apply; Escape restores the current value.

Position 1 (r1)-3.0 m

-4.0–-0.5

Drag for exploration or enter an exact value. Press Enter to apply; Escape restores the current value.

Right Block Parameters (CW)

Mass 2 (m2)30 kg

5–50

Drag for exploration or enter an exact value. Press Enter to apply; Escape restores the current value.

Position 2 (r2)2.0 m

0.5–4.0

Drag for exploration or enter an exact value. Press Enter to apply; Escape restores the current value.

Live Torque Summation Equation

\Sigma\tau = \tau_{CCW} - \tau_{CW} = 588.6 \text{ N}\cdot\text{m} - 588.6 \text{ N}\cdot\text{m} = 0.0 \text{ N}\cdot\text{m}

For **Rotational Equilibrium**, counter-clockwise (CCW) torque must exactly equal clockwise (CW) torque ($\Sigma \tau = 0$).

CCW Torque (τ1 = m1·g·r1)

588.60 N·m

CW Torque (τ2 = m2·g·r2)

588.60 N·m

Fulcrum Reaction Force (FR)

588.60 N

Net Residual Torque (Στ)

0.00 N·m

Model scope and verification

Use the displayed units and idealizations, then verify the governing balance or compatibility equation before interpreting the result.

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