Help Difference between the elastic neutral axis and the plastic neutral axis.

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difference between the elastic neutral axis and the plastic neutral axis.

 

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In mechanics of materials, the neutral axis is an imaginary line that divides a structural member into two equal areas, separating the compression and tension regions. There are two types of neutral axis: elastic neutral axis and plastic neutral axis.

The elastic neutral axis is the line along a structural member where there is no stress or deformation due to bending. It is calculated based on the assumption that the material is in the elastic region, and the stress-strain relationship is linear. Therefore, it is also referred to as the neutral axis of the elastic section.

On the other hand, the plastic neutral axis is the line along a structural member where the material starts to yield or undergoes plastic deformation due to bending. It is calculated based on the assumption that the material has reached its yield point and that plastic deformation occurs. Therefore, it is also referred to as the neutral axis of the plastic section.

The elastic neutral axis and the plastic neutral axis are not the same, and their positions differ depending on the material properties and cross-sectional shape of the member. In general, the plastic neutral axis is lower than the elastic neutral axis, indicating that the tension side of the member undergoes more deformation than the compression side.

The difference between the elastic neutral axis and the plastic neutral axis is essential in the design of structures that undergo plastic deformation, such as reinforced concrete structures. The location of the plastic neutral axis determines the amount of reinforcement required to prevent failure due to plastic bending.