Chapter 5: Problem 8

Explain what a bimetallic strip is and how it functions.

Short Answer

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Question: Explain how a bimetallic strip functions in response to changes in temperature. Answer: A bimetallic strip consists of two different metals with distinct coefficients of thermal expansion. When exposed to a change in temperature, one metal will expand or contract more than the other, causing the strip to bend. This bending action can be used to control mechanisms, such as switches or valves, in temperature-sensitive devices. As the temperature increases, the strip bends outward, while when the temperature decreases, the strip bends inward, affecting the connected control mechanisms accordingly.

Step by step solution

Components of a Bimetallic Strip

A bimetallic strip consists of two different metals that have been joined together. These metals have different coefficients of thermal expansion, meaning they expand or contract at different rates when subjected to temperature changes.

Function of a Bimetallic Strip

The bimetallic strip functions by taking advantage of the differences in thermal expansion between the two metals. When the strip is exposed to a change in temperature, one side will expand or contract more than the other, causing the strip to bend. This bending action can be used to control mechanisms, such as switches or valves, in temperature-sensitive devices.

Temperature Increase

When the bimetallic strip is exposed to an increase in temperature, both metals will expand. However, the metal with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion will expand more than the other. This causes the strip to bend, with the side containing the metal with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion curving outward.

Bending Action

As the strip bends, the action can be used to control various mechanisms. For example, the bending can be used to push against a switch or lever in a temperature control system. This will activate or deactivate a heating or cooling mechanism, depending on the desired function.

Temperature Decrease

When the bimetallic strip is exposed to a decrease in temperature, both metals will contract. Again, the metal with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion will contract more than the other. This time, the strip will bend in the opposite direction, with the side containing the metal with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion curving inward.

Return to Original Position

As a result of the bending action in response to a decrease in temperature, the strip can return to its original position and release pressure on the switch or lever in the temperature control system. This will restore the device to its previous state, ready for the next temperature change.

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Explain what a bimetallic strip is and how it functions.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Components of a Bimetallic Strip

Function of a Bimetallic Strip

Temperature Increase

Bending Action

Temperature Decrease

Return to Original Position

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