Calculating Minimum Horsepower for Moving a Mass at a Given Speed

In summary, the minimum horsepower required for a motor to drag a 270 kg box along a level floor at a speed of 1.20 m/s with a coefficient of friction of 0.50 is 2.13 hp. This can be calculated using the formula P = F*v, where P is power, F is force, and v is velocity. This answer may seem low, but it is equivalent to a pair of horses pulling a sled with a person on it at a speed of 5 km/hr.
  • #1
RileyAllen
7
0

Homework Statement


What minimum horsepower must a motor have to be able to drag a 270 kg box along a level floor at a speed of 1.20 m/s if the coefficient of friction is 0.50?


Homework Equations


Ffr=mu*mg
W=Ffr*d


The Attempt at a Solution


I ended up having W=Fr*d=mu*m*g*d
(.5)*(270)*(1.2)*(1.2)=194.4 J/s=.26 hp

That is way too low.

Can anyone give me any guidance?
 
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  • #2
It looks like you just used 1.2 instead of 9.81 in your calc, but it would be better to use P = F*v.
If you don't know this formula, it is from P = W/t = F*d/t = F*v.
 
  • #3
Is the way I tried it wrong? I ended up with hp=2.13 and that still seems pretty low
 
  • #4
That answer looks good!
Why does it seem low? Picture a pair of horses pulling a sled with a big guy on it at 5 km/hr?
 

Related to Calculating Minimum Horsepower for Moving a Mass at a Given Speed

What is horsepower?

Horsepower is a unit of measurement used to quantify the amount of power an engine or motor can produce. It was originally defined as the amount of power needed to lift 550 pounds one foot in one second.

What is the relationship between horsepower and moving a mass?

Horsepower is often used to measure the power needed to move a mass, such as a vehicle or machine. It is directly related to the amount of work that can be done in a given amount of time, so a higher horsepower typically means a greater ability to move a heavier mass.

How does horsepower affect the speed at which a mass can be moved?

The amount of horsepower needed to move a mass at a certain speed depends on several factors, such as the weight and type of mass, the terrain, and the efficiency of the engine or motor. Generally, a higher horsepower will allow for faster movement of a mass.

Is horsepower the only factor that affects the ability to move a mass?

No, horsepower is just one factor that affects the ability to move a mass. Other factors, such as torque, gearing, and traction, also play a role in how efficiently a mass can be moved.

How can horsepower be increased to move a mass more efficiently?

Horsepower can be increased by improving the efficiency of the engine or motor, using higher quality fuel, and reducing the weight of the mass being moved. Proper maintenance and tuning can also help improve horsepower and overall efficiency.

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