IntermediateTopic 61 of 106Engineering Mechanics

Mohr's circle

A graphical method to transform stresses and find principal stresses.

In depth

Mohr's circle plots normal against shear stress for all planes at a point. Centre (σx+σy)/2, radius √(((σx-σy)/2)²+τxy²). It gives principal stresses, maximum shear and stress on rotated planes, with angles doubled.

Key points

  • Principal planes have no shear
  • τmax = radius
  • Also works for strain and inertia tensors
Example

σx=80, σy=20, τ=40 MPa gives principal stresses of 110 and -10 MPa.

Why it matters

Mohr's circle gives a graphical way to transform stresses and locate principal values, which helps interpret results from strain gauges and FEA.

Where this is used

  • Finding the maximum shear stress at a point in a pressurised pipe.
  • Interpreting a three-gauge rosette on a machine frame.
  • Checking the orientation of the principal stresses in a shaft under torsion.

Frequently asked questions

What is Mohr's circle?

A graphical method to transform stresses and find principal stresses.

Why is it important to understand mohr's circle?

Mohr's circle gives a graphical way to transform stresses and locate principal values, which helps interpret results from strain gauges and FEA.

How do I draw Mohr's circle?

Plot normal stress on the horizontal axis and shear on the vertical. Use the two stresses on perpendicular planes as points and find the centre and radius.

Does the circle show direction?

Yes. Angles on the circle are twice the physical angles between planes, which is a common source of mistakes.

How is Mohr's circle used in practice?

Typical applications include finding the maximum shear stress at a point in a pressurised pipe, interpreting a three-gauge rosette on a machine frame and checking the orientation of the principal stresses in a shaft under torsion.

What should I learn before Mohr's circle?

Study "Combined loading" first (topic 60 of 106 in Engineering Mechanics). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.

What are the key points of Mohr's circle?

Principal planes have no shear. τmax = radius. Also works for strain and inertia tensors.

Can you give an example of Mohr's circle?

σx=80, σy=20, τ=40 MPa gives principal stresses of 110 and -10 MPa.

What comes after Mohr's circle?

The next topic is "Principal stresses", which builds directly on this one.

How difficult is Mohr's circle?

It is classed as Intermediate in Engineering Mechanics (topic 61 of 106). It is an intermediate topic. Work through the beginner topics in Engineering Mechanics first.

Learning path

Want to practise? Open the interactive course for quick checks, quizzes, simulations and progress tracking.

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