Selected topics from mechanics

The book provides introductory information on the mechanics related to the design and operation of mechanical parts, including vehicles and transport structures. It is divided into six chapters. The first one is devoted to mechanical energy, including energy accumulated in elastic bodies under load, and dissipated during irreversible processes. The next chapter deals with the mechanics of rotating parts. The third chapter shows the temperature distribution in simple bodies in basic cases of heat transfer. The corresponding relationships are useful in calculating thermal stresses, which is the topic of the next chapter. The fifth chapter treats adhesion, friction and wear. The sixth chapter is devoted to the basics of mechanics of concrete parts, including the reinforced and pre-stressed ones. It also explains the chemical action of the environment and the pertinent diagnostics. The last chapter presents the basics of soil mechanics, including the effect of composition and moisture, and improvement of its properties. The book contains numerous illustrations and references. Knowledge of high school mathematics and the basics of calculus is an advantage, but it is not necessary.