One of a range of experiment modules that fit to the Structures platform Structures platform STS1 (available separately), this product helps students to understand the bending stresses at various positions of a beam section due to a load.Students add loads to an inverted T-section beam held on two supports. Strain gauges at different heights up the beam measure the strains due to the load. A load cell measures the force applied at the mid span of the beam.

Students apply the load and measure the resulting strains.They use textbook beam equations to predict the stresses and bending moments for any given load, comparing them to measured results. This helps confirm the reliability of the textbook equations and the accuracy of the experiment results.

This product includes a Vernier caliper for accurate measurement of the beam cross-section.

The strain gauges connect to a strain gauge amplifier, which connects (with the load cell) to the USB interface hub of the Structures platform for computer display and data acquisition.

*There are 21 different experiments in the Next Generation Structures range.

Key Features

• One of a range of experiment modules that teach structures principles
• Fits to the Structures platform for ergonomic use and space-saving storage
• Strain gauge amplifi er and multiple strain gauges for a complete measurement of strain at different positions around the beam section
• T-section beam for stability, with an off set neutral axis
• Includes Vernier caliper for beam cross-section measurement
• Supplied with a storage tray to keep smaller items safe
• Works with user-friendly software (VDAS^®)

Learning Outcomes

• Stress and strain relationship
• Strain gauges as instruments
• Finding the neutral axis by experiment and calculation
• How the beam cross-section dimensions affect the second moment of area (I value) and neutral axis

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