What is the function of a wheel axle?
2 Answers
The function of a wheel axle is to change the torque moment, thereby altering the magnitude of the torque. The following is an introduction to the wheel axle: Working principle of the wheel axle: It is a system composed of a 'wheel' and an 'axle'. This system can rotate around a common axis, equivalent to a lever system with the axis as the fulcrum and the radius as the lever. Therefore, the wheel axle can change the torque moment, thereby altering the magnitude of the torque. The greater the difference between the radii of the wheel and the axle, the more effort is saved, but the more distance is required. Simple wheel axles like those in carriages, door handles, steering wheels, and carts have no power transmission, while the wheel axles of powered vehicles are much more complex. Essence of the wheel axle: It can be considered as a continuously rotating lever. When using a wheel axle, generally, the lines of action of the forces applied to the wheel and the axle are tangent to the wheel and the axle, respectively. Therefore, the moment arms correspond to the radii of the wheel and the axle. Since the radius of the wheel is always greater than that of the axle, when the driving force is applied to the wheel, the wheel axle acts as a labor-saving but distance-consuming lever.
The axle in a car is like its legs and feet. Having driven many cars, I can say it primarily supports the entire vehicle's weight, keeping the body firmly placed on the wheels. When you drive, the axle transmits power to make the wheels rotate—for instance, the engine's force is transferred through it to the wheels. On bumpy roads, a good axle absorbs shocks, preventing you from feeling excessive wobbling. If the axle wears out accidentally, the car might shake severely or even become unstable when turning. I recommend regularly checking the axle bearings and applying lubricant to extend their lifespan. Newer cars also use lightweight materials like aluminum alloy axles to help save fuel and run faster, but their core function remains the same: ensuring safety and stable movement.
