KEVOS® MAKEOS · Mechanics
Centrifugal Force on a Rotating Mass
What outward force does this rotating mass exert?
Centrifugal force, acceleration in g and tangential speed of a mass rotating at a radius, for clamps, counterweights and attachments.
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How this tool works
Inputs, units and where to find them
| Input | Unit | Typical source |
|---|---|---|
| Rotating mass | kg | Mass of the part, weight or jaw that rotates. |
| Radius to centre of mass | mm | Distance from the axis to the part’s centre of mass. |
| Speed | rpm | Highest speed the part will run at. |
Method and formulas
- ω = 2πn ÷ 60; F = m ω² r (r in metres).
- Acceleration = ω² r; in g = ω² r ÷ 9.80665.
- Example: 2 kg at 150 mm and 1500 rpm pulls outward with 7,402.2 N (377.41 g).
Limitations
- Rigid body at steady speed; the effect of the part deflecting outward is not included.
- Example values are illustrations. Replace them with values for your actual task.
Typical uses
- Check clamping of fixture parts and counterweights on a spindle
- Estimate loads on rotor attachments
- Assess chuck jaw force loss at speed
Who it is for
- Design engineers
- Maintenance engineers
- Technicians
What you get
- Centrifugal force
- Acceleration in g
- Tangential speed
Interpreting the result
- Compare the force with the clamp, bolt or jaw holding capacity, including your safety factor.
References
- Machinery’s Handbook, 29th edition (Industrial Press, 2012), printed pp. 187–190. Topic reference; no source tables or recommended settings are reproduced.
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