Breaking load is a term that is commonly used in various fields such as engineering, construction, and manufacturing. It refers to the maximum amount of weight or force that a material or object can withstand before it breaks or fails. Understanding the definition and meaning of breaking load is essential for ensuring safety, quality control, and efficient production processes.
Definitions
Breaking load is defined as the maximum amount of weight or force that a material or object can withstand before it breaks or fails. This is often measured using standard testing methods, such as tensile testing, compression testing, or shear testing. The breaking load can vary depending on the type of material, its thickness, and other factors such as temperature and humidity.
Origin
The term breaking load has its roots in the field of engineering and materials science. It is derived from the Latin word “frangere,” which means “to break.” The concept of breaking load has been used for centuries to test the strength and durability of various materials, from wood and stone to metals and plastics.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, breaking load is defined as “the maximum load that a structure, machine, or material can withstand before breaking or failing.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the maximum load that can be applied to a structure, machine, or material before it fails.”
Associations
Breaking load is often associated with safety and quality control in various industries. It is used to ensure that materials and products meet certain standards and can withstand the stresses and strains of everyday use. Breaking load is also used in research and development to test the properties of new materials and to improve existing ones.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for breaking load include maximum load, ultimate strength, and failure load. These terms are often used interchangeably in various industries and testing methods.
Antonyms
The antonyms of breaking load are yield strength and elastic limit. These terms refer to the point at which a material begins to deform or change shape under stress, rather than breaking or failing completely.
The same root words
The root word of breaking load, “frangere,” is also found in other English words such as fracture, fragment, and fragile. These words all relate to the concept of breaking or being easily broken.
Example Sentences
- The breaking load of the steel beam was tested to ensure it could support the weight of the building.
- The manufacturer set a minimum breaking load for their product to ensure it met safety standards.
- The researchers found that the breaking load of the new material was significantly higher than that of the old material.
- The bridge collapsed due to the breaking load being exceeded during a heavy storm.
- The engineers designed the machine to withstand a breaking load of 500 pounds.