Bending Theory

1. Objectives
The object of this experiment is to determine Youngs Modulus of Elasticity (E) of 2
materials.
-Use the results to plot graphs of load (W) against Deflection () for each beam.
-Determine the second moment of area and cross sectional area of each beam
-Calculate E for each material

2. Background Information
2.1 Youngs Modulus
Youngs Modulus is a measure of stiffness for any material; It is a ratio of stress over
strain.
2.2 Second Moment of Area
The second moment of area is defined as an objects ability to resist bending and
deflection-it is based on the size and shape of the beam.
2.3 Deflection
-The deflection of a beam is the amount at which a structural element is displaced due to
the application of a load.
-The deflection of a beam is dependent on the way it is supported, thus for every type of
support, there is a unique equation describing how the beam will deflect.
-In this experiment a simply supported beam is used the equations applicable are shown
below.

L/2

L
R1

R2
b
d

WL3
48EI

Where

W = Load (N)
L = length of beam
E = Youngs Modulus GN/m2
I = Second moment of area (m4)
= Deflection (m)
and the second moment of area is

bd3
12

Method

Measure the dimensions for each beam

Slide two knife edge supports on to the rail and set them 500 mm apart.
Tighten them up so that they are secure and one of the edges points upwards.
Place the dial gauge in the centre of the supports
Place material 1 through the string on the dial gauge and on top of the knife edge
supports.
Slide the dial down until the plunger is compressed and the smaller of the two dials is
set at zero.
Zero the larger dial.
Add masses 100g, 200g, 300g, 400g & 500g to the plunger and note down the dial
reading on the results table.
Ensure that the masses are dropped gently on to the hanger.

Note: Take care with the readings. Increasing deflection reduces the dial reading.
Once all the results have been taken, remove the supports and repeat the process with
material 2

Results
All graphs must be hand drawn.
Work out the load acting on the beam.
Calculate the second moment of area.
Plot a graph of W (y axis) against (x axis)
Draw a line of best fit through the points.
Calculate the gradient of each line
Use this gradient to determine Youngs Modulus for the two materials.
Conclusions
Which material is the most resilient?
Why is this?
Which area of the cross section is important in resisting bending and which areas have little
impact in prevention of deflection
Compare the calculate values of E with expected values.
Explain any differences

Results Tables
Variables
mass
Gravity
Force

Length
I
E

Units
g
m/s2
N
m
m
m4
N/m2

1
100
9.81

2
200
9.81

3
300
9.81

4
400
9.81

5
500
9.81

6
600
9.81