Bolts in a Rigid Flanged Coupling: Subjected to Shear Force and Bending Moment

The bolts in a rigid flanged coupling connecting two shafts that transmit power are subjected to shear force and bending moment. Let's understand why this is the correct answer.

1. Rigid Flanged Coupling:
A rigid flanged coupling is a device used to connect two shafts in order to transmit power from one shaft to the other. It consists of two flanges that are rigidly connected to their respective shafts and are bolted together. The bolts play a crucial role in ensuring a secure connection between the two flanges.

2. Shear Force:
When power is transmitted from one shaft to another through a rigid flanged coupling, there is a shear force acting on the bolts. Shear force is the force that tends to slide the surfaces of an object in opposite directions. In this case, the shear force acts parallel to the axis of the bolts and tends to slide the two flanges relative to each other.

3. Bending Moment:
In addition to shear force, the bolts in a rigid flanged coupling also experience a bending moment. Bending moment refers to the internal moment that causes a member, in this case, the bolts, to bend. In the case of the coupling, the bending moment is caused by the offset between the two shafts, which creates a torque or twisting force that acts on the bolts.

4. Combined Effect:
The shear force and bending moment act simultaneously on the bolts of a rigid flanged coupling. The shear force tends to push the bolts in one direction, while the bending moment tends to bend the bolts. This combined effect creates a complex loading condition for the bolts.

5. Importance of Bolts:
The bolts in a rigid flanged coupling play a critical role in maintaining the connection between the two flanges. They are designed to withstand the shear force and bending moment generated during power transmission. Therefore, it is essential to select bolts of appropriate size, material, and strength to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the coupling.

In conclusion, the bolts in a rigid flanged coupling connecting two shafts transmitting power are subjected to shear force and bending moment. These forces act simultaneously on the bolts and must be taken into account during the design and selection of the bolts to ensure the coupling's proper functioning and longevity.