View Full Version : Tension and compression forces
jenniandcaleb
Dec 3, 2016, 08:22 PM
Why do suppose engineers chose to use tension forces to pull elevators up rather than compression forces to push them up?
smoothy
Dec 3, 2016, 08:41 PM
Ever try pushing a rope?
jenniandcaleb
Dec 3, 2016, 10:07 PM
Although you are trying to be witty, you are falling short... but then again there's one in every crowd that has to comment a ridiculous post when they have no clue of the real answer. Lol A 'rope' was never mentioned in my question and has nothing to do with an elevator... fyi
ebaines
Dec 4, 2016, 06:29 AM
I disagree with the basic premise of the question - there are plenty of elevators that use a hydraulic ram (i.e. piston) to push upward on the bottom of the elevator car. They are especially common for freight elevators, given the tremendous pushing forces that hydraulic systems can generate. But think about the limitations of such a system - the size of the piston is proportional to the height of the lift, so it becomes impractical to use such a system for a lift of more than 5 or 6 stories. Also think about the comparative energy efficiency of a rope and counterweight system - it takes very little force to move an raise an elevator car while lowering a counterweight.
ma0641
Dec 4, 2016, 09:14 AM
Because many places need Handicap access, you may need an elevator. N Most, 2-4 story buildings Do Not use a cabled elevator, they use hydraulic, or as you say "compression".
smoothy
Dec 4, 2016, 05:21 PM
Question: Tension and compression forces (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/physics/tension-compression-forces-829143.html#post3786810){"why": "has nothing to do with thw question asked", "source": "https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/physics/tension-compression-forces-829143.html#post3786815"}
Rather ignorant feedback for what actually ammounts to a homework question.
Although you are trying to be witty, you are falling short... but then again there's one in every crowd that has to comment a ridiculous post when they have no clue of the real answer. Lol A 'rope' was never mentioned in my question and has nothing to do with an elevator... fyi
Ever read the homeworkl rules...why is it the Noobs who are always the most ignorant.