Advanced Beam Testing Apparatus- Engineering Lab Training Systems

Cost Effective Teaching Comprehensive theory of beams Simple and propped cantilevers Simply supported, fixed and continuous beams Three piers measure positive and negative reactions Piers include a re-leveling system Three dial gauges on stands Point loads and distributed loading Six test beams to verify all variables Two optional extra sets of selected beams Data logging option Three year warranty Range of Experiments All variables in deflection of beams Slope and curvature of beams Support reactions of single span and continuous beams Effect of sinking supports Area moment theorems Super-position Clerk Maxwell s reciprocal theorum Flitched beams Non-uniform beams Description The apparatus provided allows an unlimited range of beam experiments to be performed to measure support reactions and the deflections and rotations of simply supported, fixed and two span continuous beams. The end clamp also offers work on simple and propped cantilevers. In addition the effect of sinking supports on a continuous beam can be studied. The experiments are assembled on a bench mounted twin beam base standing on end frames with levelling feet. Three load measuring piers with a digital read out in decaNewtons can be clamped to the base anywhere within its length of 1.2 m. These piers are equipped with a height correction system to compensate for the vertical deflection of the load indicator and are fitted with beam connectors which provide pinned conditions for both downward and upward beam reactions. A fourth pier is a simple clamp for supporting a cantilever or the fixed end of a beam. Three dial gauges on stands can be clamped anywhere on the base. Four load hangers provide for point loads, while a set of slotted weights can be used to simulate a distributed load on a beam. The set of test beams affords the study of all the variables in the standard formula for uniform beams. This equipment is part of a range designed to both demonstrate and experimentally confirm basic engineering principles. Great care has been given to each item so as to provide wide experimental scope without unduly complicating or compromising the design. Each piece of apparatus is self-contained and compact. Setting up time is minimal, and all measurements are made with the simplest possible instrumentation, so that the student involvement is purely with the engineering principles being taught. A complete instruction manual is provided describing the apparatus, its application, experimental procedure and typical test results.