More on simple machines - the Pulley systems
Simple machines are just what they are - simple. They may not have complex parts, require petrol or look bulky. But simple machines still enable the user apply little effort to overcome a large resistance or load. In the last presentation, I looked at 2 classes of lever with examples and illustrations.
In this presentation, we will look at another simple machine that is popular. One needs to understand how it works. This machine is called the pulley system.
The pulley System
The pulley is a simple machine that is easy to set up and use. Pulleys are mainly used to lift large loads to a higher platform such as on a construction sight. They are also used to lower loads from a higher ground to a lower ground. They could also be used to pull a large load, of generate mechanical power.
A pully system usually comprises of one or more wheels with grooves installed on a pivot or other rigid supporting structure. A rope is used to connect the wheels through the grove. The rope is extended to a hook which is attached to a load in order to lift it.
To use a pulley system, some load is attached to one end of the rope through its hook. In order to lift the load, some force is applied to the other end of the pulley by pulling the other end of the rope. The little force on one end of the rope is used to overcome the load at the other end.
The load could be represented by the letter L and the effort or force applied to the rope represented by F. For the load to be lifted by the pulley system, the effort F must be equal to more more than the weight of the load L, in order to move the load through a distance D assuming the resistance is negligible.
The mechanical advanatge of a pully system is in the utilization of a small force to overcome a large load. Since pulleys are more practically used to lift loads, one could used their body weight and gravity as an advantage to overcome a very heavy load which they ordinarily cannot carry on their own.
Block and tackle system
The block and tackle system is a good example of pulleys where more than 1 wheel is used. block and tackle pulley systems are usually employed when the load to be lifted or resistance to be overcome is much larger. In this system, many wheels are mounted on the same pivot and a single rope is passed through the groove of the wheels. Take a look at the sample below:
The effort is applied at the point labelled E which is one end of the rope. Notice that the rope runs through all 5 pulleys. The load is pulled up by the two lower wheels closer to the load. The two upper wheels which are stationary provide the fulcrum for the entire system. Just like I mentioned earlier, each pulley system is stronger depending on the number of wheels there are. In physics, it is called mechanical advantage. The more the number of wheels in the system, the bigger its mechanical advantage. However, no pulley systems are 100% efficient because some of the force applied to the wheels through the rope are lost as friction.
In the next presentation, we will calculate the efficiency and velocity ratios of pulley systems. This will give us some idea into the amount of work each pulley system is capable of doing.
Conclusion
Simple machines help us to accomplish some work. The pulley system is one such simple machines. Wheels and ropes in this case are part of the pulley which helps in lifting large loads to a higher ground
Good explanation of what pulley is and how they are used. thanks so much.
Your explanations has made it easy to understand what pulley mechine are. And how the can be used
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Pulley systems are fundamental simple machines that play a crucial role in lifting and moving heavy objects with ease. These devices consist of a grooved wheel and a rope or cable, enabling users to distribute force and manipulate the direction of applied effort. I can say to go now that learn more new ways for machine. By utilizing multiple pulleys in combination, mechanical advantage can be achieved, reducing the amount of force required to accomplish tasks. Pulleys are widely employed in various applications, from construction and manufacturing to everyday situations like window blinds and flagpoles. Understanding the principles of pulley systems enhances our ability to leverage mechanical advantages in a wide range of scenarios.
Pulley systems are fundamental simple machines that have been integral to human engineering for centuries. These ingenious devices make lifting heavy objects a breeze by distributing the load and reducing the effort required. Pulleys come in various configurations, from fixed to movable, and they are essential in countless applications, from construction to manufacturing. If you're intrigued by the magic of pulleys and want to explore their potential, visit https://magicalkatrina.com/shop/easymagickit. Here, you can find educational kits to learn and experiment with pulley systems, unlocking the secrets of this remarkable tool that has shaped the way we work and live.