Chapter 10, Problem 1CQ

When tightening a bolt, mechanics sometimes extend the length of a wrench handle by slipping a section of pipe over the handle. Why could this procedure easily damage the bolt?

To determine

The reason for which extending the length of a wrench handle by slipping a section of pipe over the handle make the bolt damage easily.

Answer to Problem 1CQ

The increased length of the wrench handle results the increased torque to act on the bolt, which in turn shear and damage the bolt.

Explanation of Solution

The length of the wrench handle and the torque applied on the bolt is directly proportional. Increasing the length of the wrench handle will increase the torque being applied on the bolt.

This occurs due to the increase in the moment arm while increasing the length of the wrench handle.

The bolt is designed to withstand a particular amount of torque applied on it. The increased torque due to the increased length of the wrench handle will shear the bolt.