Product Details

This apparatus is designed to study the deflection behavior of various curved beams under load, allowing students to experimentally investigate how different geometries, such as half-circles and davits, deform in both horizontal and vertical directions. It provides a comparative analysis of structural flexibility and strain energy in curved members, which is fundamental to understanding the mechanics of non-linear components. The unit includes five distinct curved specimens made from steel or aluminum, all with similar cross-sectional areas for consistent comparison. A universal mounting bracket accommodates all specimens, either vertically or horizontally, while two dial gauges with 0.01mm precision measure perpendicular deflection components simultaneously. Loads are applied incrementally using calibrated weights and hangers, enabling precise observation of deformation trends across different beam shapes. Its primary application is in civil and mechanical engineering education for demonstrating the principles of elastic curve theory and structural analysis. The key benefit is the hands-on validation of theoretical deflection models, helping students visualize how curvature influences stress distribution and deformation, which is critical for designing arches, cranes, and framed structures in real-world engineering projects.