STRAIN ENERGY METHOD

INTRODUCTION

When external load acts on a structure, it undergoes deformation and hence work is said to be done. This work done is stored in the structure as strain energy.

This concept is used in finding deflections in structure

1 FORMULA FOR DEFLECTION

Refer to note book for derivation. Strain Energy:

U=

L
2

M dx 2EI

Where U = strain energy, M= bending moment, E = Youngs modulas of elasticity, I = Moment of Inertia L = length of the section taken.

CONT:
This is equated to work done by load Work = *P*

where P= load applied, = deflection at the required point Strain energy = work done from which we find the deflection

PRACTICE PROBLEMS
Q) Use strain energy method to find deflection of free end of cantilever of length L subject to concentrated load P at free end. Ans: (PL /3EI) 3 Q) Find deflection below 60 kN load. Ans:(480/EI)
60KN A

EI
4m

2EI 4m

PRACTICE PROBLEMS
Q) Find deflection at C, E=200KN/mm2, I=30*10mm4 6 Ans: 4.5mm
1KN B 3m I 4m 2I C