`a = ((m_2-m_1)g)/(m_1+m_2)`

Enter a value for all fields

The Pulley System Acceleration calculator computes the acceleration of two masses suspended on cable between two weights in a pulley system.

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (m1) Mass One
• (m2) Mass Two

Pulley System Acceleration (a): The calculator computes the acceleration in meters per second squared (m/s²).  However, this can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

The formula for the belt or cable accelerate on the pulley system is: 

             `a = ((m_2-m_1)g)/(m_1+m_2)` 

where:

• a = acceleration
• m₁  = mass 1
• m₂ = mass 2
• g = acceleration due to gravity

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Simple Machine Calculators

• Lever Beam Length:  Computes the length of a lever (beam) on one side of a fulcrum needed to lift an object based on the objects weight and the length of the beam on the other side of the fulcrum.
• Leverage Lift Weight:  Computes the weight that can be lifted using a lever based on the downward force and the length of the lever on either side of the fulcrum.
• Fulcrum Position (x): Computes the position of the fulcrum needed in a lever to lift a weight (W) with a downward force (F) with a beam of length (L), where L = x + y.
• Belt Length:  Computes the length of a belt that goes around two pulleys of different diameters separated by a specific distance.
• Belt Speed: Computes the speed a belt travels based on the diameter of the pulley and the RPMs.
• Pulley RPMs: Computes the RPMs of a pulley based on the speed of the belt and the diameter of the pulley.
• 2nd Pulley RPMs: Computes the RPMs of a second pulley in a two pulley system when the RPM and Diameter are known for one pulley and the diameter of the second pulley is also known.
• 2nd Pulley Diameter:- Computes the diameter of a second pulley in a two pulley system based on diameter and RPM of one pulley and the RPMs of the second.
• Pulley System Tension: Computes the tension on a cable around a cable based on two weights.
• Pulley System Acceleration: Computes the belt or cable acceleration in a two mass pulley system.
• RPM of 4th pulley on three shafts: Computes the RPMs of a fourth pulley on a three shaft system when the RMPs of the first shaft is known and the four diameters.
• 2nd Gear RPM:  Computes the RPMs of a second gear when the RPM and number of teeth are known for the first gear, and the number of teeth are known for the second gear.
• Pulley RPMs: Computes pulley RPMs from belt speed and pulley diameter.
• Sum of Two Lengths: Computes the sum of two lengths (useful with lever calculations).
• Second Gear Torque: Calculates the torque of a second gear when the torque and number of teeth are known for the first gear and the number of teeth of the second gear is known.
• Leadscrew Torque (lift): Computes the torque required to lift a load with a square thread power screw assembly.

References

• Handyman In~Your~Pocket page 42 :(Young and Glover)2012 published by Sequoia Publishing Inc of Littleton, Colorado, U.S.A.