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Velocity of Vehicle for Ruling Minimum Radius Calculator

Velocity Formula:

\[ v = \sqrt{R \times g \times (e + f)} \]

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1. What is Velocity for Ruling Minimum Radius?

Definition: This calculator determines the safe velocity of a vehicle based on the road's ruling minimum radius, super elevation, and lateral friction coefficient.

Purpose: It helps transportation engineers design safe horizontal curves on roads by ensuring appropriate speed limits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ v = \sqrt{R \times g \times (e + f)} \]

Where:

  • \( v \) — Vehicle velocity (m/s)
  • \( R \) — Ruling minimum radius (meters)
  • \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)
  • \( e \) — Rate of super elevation (decimal)
  • \( f \) — Coefficient of lateral friction

Explanation: The formula balances centrifugal force with the combined effects of super elevation and lateral friction to determine maximum safe speed.

3. Importance of Velocity Calculation

Details: Proper velocity estimation ensures vehicle stability on curves, prevents skidding, and maintains passenger comfort.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the ruling radius in meters, super elevation rate (default 7%), and friction coefficient (default 0.15). All values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is ruling minimum radius?
A: The minimum curve radius that can be safely negotiated at the design speed with maximum super elevation and side friction.

Q2: How is super elevation rate expressed?
A: As a decimal (e.g., 7% = 0.07) representing the ratio of elevation difference to road width.

Q3: What's a typical friction coefficient?
A: Usually 0.15 for design purposes, but varies with pavement condition and tire type.

Q4: How to convert m/s to km/h?
A: Multiply by 3.6 (1 m/s = 3.6 km/h).

Q5: Why is gravitational acceleration included?
A: It accounts for the vertical component of forces acting on the vehicle in the curve.

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