Buckling of Columns ME 272 Experiment #8

Objective: The objective of this experiment is to develop an experimental method utilizing the buckling of columns apparatus that will determine the load-deflection function and critical loads of a sample column. The developed method is then used to determine the load-deflection function and critical loads for a column with various end conditions (pinned-pinned, clamped-pinned, and clamped-clamped). Reference: Sections 10.2 to 10.5 in Mechanics of Materials; Beer, Johnston, and DeWolf Apparatus: You will be using the strut machine for this experiment. Once the test sample is installed into the machine, an axial load is then applied to the column through the hydraulic cylinder. This load is applied by turning the hand crank clockwise. Although the load is being applied axially, the dial indicator produces a slight side loading that causes deflection to occur almost immediately. As the column is loaded, the dial indicator will measure the deflection in the beam. The cross member that houses the indicator can be moved laterally to place the indicator at the location on the column with maximum deflection. This machine can simulate both pinned and clamped end conditions. For a clamped end condition, the end of the column is simply clamped into the fixture. For the pinned end condition, the clamp is tightened without the column in it. The column is then slid into the V-shaped groove. Although there will be some side loading from the V-shaped groove, it is negligible, allowing the assumption of a pinned end. Deliverables: 1. Document this experiment with a formal lab report following the report guidelines set forth in the ME 272 lab manual. 2. For theory section, present and discuss the equations and the derivation of the equations that were used to determine the calculated value of Pcr and the experimentally obtained value. 3. For each end condition, create plots showing the load-deflection relationship using experimental data as well as the determined loaddeflection function. 4. Be sure to compare the experimentally determine value for Pcr with the value obtained using Eulers formula.

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