This compact bench top unit allows the observation and analysis of both Shear Force and Bending Moment within one unit.
A rigid, aluminium beam is cut into two unequal lengths, creating a ‘cut’ section. Each beam is then simply supported on vertical supports. Each support can be moved along the beam section length creating varied support positions. At the ‘cut’ section, a deep groove ball bearing in one beam runs within a block in the other beam. This allows for both vertical movement (shear) and rotation (bending) to occur.
The Shear Force is measured using a vertical analogue spring balance. A second analogue spring balance measures the direct load created in the beam ‘cut’ section and it’s associated mechanical moment lever arm set across the ‘cut’ section allows the bending moment to be calculated.
Special Load hangers are provided that fit over the beams. The Load hangers can be positioned accurately along the beams length by using the graduated scales attached to the side of the beams.
The smooth design of the beam sections allows a wide variety of unrestricted load positions to be used along the beam lengths, using the weights set provided.
