What is a neutral axis?

Neutral axis is a line that passes through an object that shows the center of forces in action on the object. At each point of intersection through the axes, the contact and expanding pressures are the same on the object. In a symmetrical object, such as a structural beam, the neutral axis is through the exact center of the object. In an asymmetric object or object that has disproportionate support, finding a neutral axis is a very complex mathematical process. The most common practical use of this function is to create arches inside walls and buildings.

The axis is a line that passes through the object. These lines describe the place of importance to the object, often related to rotation, stress or appearance. For example, the axis of the planet Earth describes the line around which the planet rotates. Object, such as candlestick, will often have symmetry axes; The object is the same on both sides of the axis line when looking at any angle when viewed.

Each object also has a neutral axis, but it is a more complex type of line. Many forces to influenceThe object is in a given situation. Some of these forces cause the object to be stretched and some cause to withdraw. Somewhere in the area of ​​the building is a line that shows the exact center of forces, basically the boundary between the two influences.

in a rectangular beam supported at both ends, gravity withdraws to the object. Gravity makes a beam in the shape of "U", which basically causes the center of the beam to stretch. In this case, the underside of the beam stretches and the upper part of the beam is compressed. The neutral axis passes directly through the center of the object and shows the line where the forces meet and cancel each other.

For simple objects, the neutral axis is generally easy to find. It is much more difficult in complex objects. Unlike most other types, this may actually exist outside the object. In an object that has an asymmetric shape or that has uneven points of support, there may be axis where they areforces of the same in the area between two points that are outside the structure of the object. This means that the forces placed on the object are uneven and cannot be fully balanced.

was one of the first uses for the neutral axis in the architectural arch. Since the axis passes through the arch, it is possible to find a point in which the structure can support the weight above it. As long as the axis remains in the larger structure of the arch, it can hold the door without collapse. The curve of the arc gives the structure a much larger area for the axis to remain inside compared to straight top doors.