A pinned yoke connects a central member between two fork legs. The pin transfers load across two shear planes in the ideal double-shear model. Compare cylinder thrust and average pin shear stress using your entered dimensions.
Yoke Connection Interactive Calculator
Enter cylinder bore, pressure, pin diameter and an allowable shear stress. Compare ideal extension force and average double-shear stress with the allowable value you supply.
Equation Used
- Inputs are user-supplied scenario values.
- The displayed equations are evaluated directly.
- Entered efficiencies, shares, limits and factors are not predicted.
- The visual is schematic and not dimensional.
- Strength, fatigue, wear, variation, controls and safety compliance are omitted unless explicitly calculated.
How the Yoke Connection Works
The central tongue loads the pin between the fork legs. This model assumes equal sharing across two shear planes. It does not calculate pin bending, bearing pressure or the strength of the fork and tongue.
What This Calculator Represents
The cylinder uses the full bore area; losses and rod-side operation are not included. Pin load is shared equally between two shear planes. The stress ratio is only a comparison with your entered allowable stress, not a complete safety factor for the joint. Bending, bearing, fatigue, clearance and fork strength require separate checks.
Calculation Method
Ideal cylinder force = pressure × π × bore² / 4. Average double-shear stress = force / (2 × π × pin diameter² / 4). Allowable-to-calculated stress ratio = entered allowable shear stress / calculated shear stress. Stress utilization = calculated shear stress / entered allowable shear stress × 100%. Use consistent units.
How to Read the Result
Change one input at a time to compare its effect. Apply the assumptions stated beside the equations when interpreting each result.
Assumptions and Limits
The cylinder uses the full bore area; losses and rod-side operation are not included. Pin load is shared equally between two shear planes. The stress ratio is only a comparison with your entered allowable stress, not a complete safety factor for the joint. Bending, bearing, fatigue, clearance and fork strength require separate checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the displayed stress ratio rate the whole joint?
No. It compares only average pin shear with the allowable stress you entered. Other joint failure modes are outside this calculation.
Where does the allowable shear stress come from?
You supply it. The calculator does not select a material allowable or account for loading, fatigue or manufacturing conditions.
Is the drawing suitable for manufacturing?
No. It is a schematic explanation and does not specify manufacturing dimensions, tolerances or materials.
Do these results establish safe operating limits?
No. Assess the complete equipment, loads, materials, controls and applicable requirements separately.
References
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