Mechanic

al
Vibration
s
Mte-321l
Tahir Hasan
Institute of Mechatronics
Engineering, UET,
Peshawar
12PWMCT0198
Class # 05
Instructor: Sir Faiz
Muhammad

Lab # 1
Layout of Mechanical Vibrations
Lab.
Objectives:
The basic objective of this lab is to gain knowledge about different kinds of
apparatus that are present in the Mechanical Vibrations lab. A brief description and
application of each instrument is shown.

Free Vibration Apparatus:

Vibrations are a major part of the real world. There are
vibrations in many of the physical phenomenon we see
for example a car engine, a hanging bridge or even our
voice is transmitted in the form of vibrations. The free
vibration apparatus is used to visualize free vibrations.
It consists of a spring mass system and a damper. The
whole assembly is called a free vibration apparatus
because no external force is applied during the vibration. The excitation force is just
provided once and then its response is plotted.
It can be used to perform a number of experiments such as determining the
damping in a system, investigating the nature of vibration, finding the damping
coefficient and many more.

Forced Vibration Apparatus:

A forced vibration apparatus is the same as a free
vibration apparatus but it is used to demonstrate
the forced vibrations. It consists of a motor and a
spring mass system that causes forced oscillations
of some frequency, which is in the control of the
user. A vertical bar is attached to the motor via a
spring. When the motor rotates the vertical bar
oscillates and produces forced oscillations.
A damping system is also present in this apparatus. Damper is used as an energy
absorbent in the vibrating system. The damping of the vibration can also be varied
using a knob on top of it.

 Torsional Vibration
Apparatus:
This experimental unit is used to
explain torsion and torsional vibration
in experiments. The core of the
experiment is a metal torsion bar. With
the aid of chucks, mass discs of varying inertia can be attached to the bar. It this
way it is possible to assemble torsional vibrator systems with up to three masses.
Vibrations can be induced on the system using an electrical exciter supplied from
the control unit. An adjustable damper can be used to influence the vibrations. Shaft
encoders on the chucks provide the amplitude of vibration as an electrical signal.
The control unit conditions these signals and
makes them available

Static and Dynamic

Balancing Apparatus:
The main element of the bench top unit is a
smooth shaft to which four variable unbalance
weights can be attached at any angle or
distance. The rotor is supported horizontally in
ball bearings and is driven by a speedcontrolled motor. The speed is measured
electronically and shown on a digital display. For determination of the unbalance
weight by measuring the balance of moments the driving belt can be removed.
Using different weights dragging on the pulley defined moments can be exerted to
the shaft. They can be compared with those caused by the unbalance weights when
rotating. The transparent hood prevents contact with the rotating parts and
provides a good view of the rotor. Fastening of the
supporting base with elastic elements neutralizes
undesirable vibrations.

Inverted Pendulum Trainer:

Inverted pendulum system is a nonlinear
unstable system, an ideal experiment platform for
teaching control theories and conducting various

control experiments. Many abstract control concepts, such as the stability and the
controllability of a control system, can all be shown visually through the inverted
pendulum system. In addition to educational purposes, an inverted pendulum is also
a research area for many researchers of modern control theories. Through the
continuous research on new ways of controlling inverted pendulum, researchers
have developed new control methods, and apply them to the high tech areas such
as aeronautical engineering and robotics, thanks to the characteristics of the
system, such as high-order, instability multivariables, non-linearity and strong coupling.

Gyroscope:
Gyroscope is a device for measuring or
maintaining orientation, based on the
principles of angular momentum. Mechanical
gyroscopes typically comprise a spinning
wheel or disc in which the axle is free to
assume any orientation. Although the
orientation of the spin axis changes in
response to an external torque, the amount of change and the direction of the
change is less and in a different direction than it would be if the disk were not
spinning.
Applications of gyroscopes include inertial navigation systems where magnetic
compasses would not work (as in the Hubble telescope) or would not be precise
enough (as in intercontinental ballistic missiles), or for the stabilization of flying
vehicles like radio-controlled helicopters or
unmanned aerial vehicles. Due to their
precision, gyroscopes are also used in
gyrotheodolites to maintain direction in tunnel
mining.

Deflection of Beam
Apparatus:
The bench mounted apparatus has a heavy
steel base with a fixed support at one end and
a moveable support at the other. The supports can be fitted with knife edges or
clamp plates one of which permits horizontal movement for an encastre beam. A
steel beam and two load hangers are supplied together with two dial gauges for
measuring beam deflections and slopes.
This equipment is part of a range designed to both demonstrate and experimentally
confirm basic engineering principles.

 Whirling of Shaft
Apparatus:
The modes of oscillation and resonances of
rotors with continuous mass distribution
can be clearly demonstrated using this
unit. Due to the use of thin, elastic rotor shafts made of high-strength steel, the
oscillatory phenomena can be easily understood. A range of shaft diameters and the
free choice of the bearing arrangement make it possible to perform a wide variety
of experiments. Adapters in the bearings compensate for different diameters, catch
bearings limit the amplitude of the oscillation. The freedom of movement of the
rotor is assured by an elastic coupling. A Laval rotor with discrete mass distribution
can be assembled using a mass disc.

Comprehensive Fly Wheel Apparatus:

A flywheel is a rotating mechanical device that is used to store rotational energy.
Flywheels have a significant moment of inertia and thus resist changes in
rotational speed. The amount of energy stored in a flywheel is proportional to the
square of its rotational speed. Energy is transferred to a flywheel by applying
torque to it, thereby increasing its rotational speed, and hence its stored energy.
Conversely, a flywheel releases stored energy by applying torque to a
mechanical load, thereby decreasing the flywheel's rotational speed.

 Centrifugal Force Apparatus:

This apparatus is used to verify that centrifugal force varies with the square of the
speed, the rotating mass, and the radius of gyration. The bench-mounted unit
houses a speed-controlled motor, which carries a horizontal assembly. This
assembly comprises a boom which rotates. The speed of rotation of the boom is
displayed on the front panel along with the digital force reading. A unique feature is
that all three variables can be set and the centrifugal force directly read from the
digital force display.

Other Apparatus:
Some other apparatus which are present are mass attached to spring apparatus,
torsion vibration apparatus, connecting rods,
compressional springs.
All of the apparatus are used to demonstrate the
natural time period and frequency of vibrations.
Balancing of masses apparatus is present which is
used to demonstrate the phenomenon of balancing of
masses based on the principle of momentum and
vibrations.

Lab # 02
To find the Natural Frequency and
time period of a Torsional System.
Apparatus:

Torsional System or (Torsional Vibration Apparatus)

Stop Watch

Theory:
A torsional system consists of a circular disk attached to a rigid support via a
circular shaft. It is used to visualize the phenomenon of torsional vibrations.
Torsional vibrations are based on the principle of polar moments of inertia.
Parameters of the torsional system:
weight of the disk = 27.5 pounds
weight of chuck = 1.5 pounds
length of shaft = 148.5cm
diameter of shaft = 0.93cm

Procedure:

Ensure that the apparatus is in equilibrium position.

Reset the stopwatch to zero.
Then apply a couple on the circular disk, but be sure that it is in the safe
limits and will not damage the apparatus.
As soon as you release the disk start the stop watch. The disk will start an
oscillatory motions.
Count the number of oscillations and the time taken to complete the
oscillations.
Now bring the apparatus to rest again, and apply a couple on the disk. Now
again count the oscillations and the time taken to complete the oscillations.
Repeat these steps 3 to 4 times.

Observations and Calculations:

Mathematical Formulation:
W n=

Wn

= natural Frequency

KT=

GJ
L

KT
I

G = youngs modulus
J = d2/32 (for circular shaft)
L = length
I = mr2
S.n
o
1
2
3

Number of
oscillations

Time
(sec)

Frequency
Oscillations/T
ime

2+ f 3
f 3

avg=
f

Time period =

1/favg =

Lab # 03
Determine the time period and
natural frequency of mass
attached to spring
Apparatus:

Mass string system

Stop watch

Theory:
Mass attached to spring is the simplest form of a pendulum. The string used is an
inextensible one. When some excitation is given to the mass in particular direction it
oscillates about its mean position. These oscillations are periodic and are called as
vibrations. The mass string system can be operated in three modes. In first mode it

vibrates from left to right. In the second mode its vibrations are torsional in nature,
while it the third mode it vibrates in to and fro manner.

Procedure:

Ensure that the apparatus is in its equilibrium position

Reset the stopwatch
Now displace the apparatus towards an extreme position i.e. left or right.
Now as soon as you release the apparatus start the stop watch.
Count the number of oscillations it makes and the time taken to make those
oscillations.
Now again bring the apparatus to rest and repeat the above steps, 3 times.

Mode 2:
To operate in mode 2 the mass is subjected to a couple.
When the force is released the mass starts to oscillate in a torsional manner.
The same procedure is repeated i.e. noting the time period and the number
of oscillations.
Repeat the procedure 3 times to get an average value.
Mode 3:
The procedure is same but the excitation this time is in an extreme position
towards the back or forth .
Time and oscillations are noted to calculate the time period and natural
frequency.

Observations and Calculations:

s.
no

Mode 1
Numbe
r
Of
oscillat
ions

1
2
3

Mode 2

Tim
e
(sec
)

Frequenc
y
Cycles/s
ec

s.
no

Numbe
r
Of
oscillat
ions

Tim
e
(sec
)

Frequenc
y
Cycles/s
ec

Tim
e
(sec
)

Frequenc
y
Cycles/s
ec

1
2
3

s.
no

Mode 3
Numbe
r
Of
oscillat
ions

1
2
3

Lab # 04
To find the frequency and damping
ratio in the case of free vibration.

Apparatus:

Free vibration apparatus

Stop watch
Masses
Graph paper
Pencil

Theory:
Free vibrations are the type of vibrations in
which excitation force is provided once and
then removed. The vibrations depend upon
the mass and the spring constant. There is a
damper also present due to which there
exists a logarithmic decrement in the
vibration and with the passage of time the
amplitude becomes zero.

Procedure:

Cut a longitudinal sheet of graph

paper and wrap it around the roller on
the apparatus. Put a pencil or a pen to
note the response of the vibration.
Next add masses to the apparatuss provided slots for masses.
On the damper block there is a screw which can be used to increase or
decrease the damping in the system
Now give deflection to the slider of the apparatus, as soon as you give
deflection start the motor.
At the same time start the stop watch to measure the time taken for
oscillations, and count the number of oscillations also.
When the amplitude of vibration becomes zero, stop the motor.
Now add more weights and repeat the above steps.
Each time you see the response on the graph paper you will notice a change
in the amplitude of the vibration.
This change in amplitude is due to the change of masses in the system,
which can prove the fact that masses effect the vibrations.

Observations and calculations:

Response of the system is given by the equation:

Where the exponential term gives us with decrement in the amplitude.

Logarithmic decrement is :

Lab # 05
Balancing of unbalanced masses
using balancing machine.
Apparatus:

Balancing machine apparatus

Masses

Theory:
The apparatus consists of eccentric disk of known masses attached to a horizontal
shaft. The shaft is connected to output of a motor through a vee belt. There are
slots provides on the disks to ass masses to them. In a balanced condition there is a
less vibration while in an unbalanced condition there is a huge amount of vibration.

Procedure:

Disconnect the motor from power outlet to eliminate the danger of an electric
shock.
Now add masses to the eccentric disks, two masses are added on a known
angle and the other two are added in unknown positions at constant radii
disks.
The masses are tightened carefully to avoid slippage during operation.
When the motor is turned on the shaft start to rotate and there is a large
amplitude of vibration due to unbalanced masses.
If the machine is operated in balanced condition there will be minimum
vibration.
The angles of two masses are known and two are kept unknown and
determined.
When the unknown angles are found out the masses are placed at those
angles and it is observed that the amplitude of vibration now decreases to a
minimum level.

Observations and Calculations:

Place

Mass
(Lb.)

Radiu
s
(in)

Angle
()

mr

mrCos

mr
Sin

Mome
nt
Arm
(x)

mrxCo
s

mrxSi
n

Lab # 06
To balance unbalanced masses
using static and dynamic
balancing apparatus.
Apparatus:

Static and dynamic balancing apparatus

Allen key
Masses

Theory:
The main element of the bench top unit is a smooth shaft to which four variable
unbalance weights can be attached at any angle or distance. The rotor is supported
horizontally in ball bearings and is driven by a speed-controlled motor. The speed is
measured electronically and shown on a digital display. For determination of the
unbalance weight by measuring the balance of moments the driving belt can be
removed. Using different weights dragging on the pulley defined moments can be
exerted to the shaft. They can be compared with those caused by the unbalance
weights when rotating. The transparent hood prevents contact with the rotating
parts and provides a good view of the rotor. Fastening of the supporting base with
elastic elements neutralizes undesirable vibrations.

Procedure:

Disconnect the apparatus from power supply.

Now remove the transparent top, and on the shaft there are rectangular
blocks in which masses can be attached.
The rectangles can rotate as well as they can slide on the shaft.
To measure the distance from the mean position a vertical scale is present
and the to measure the angle from the mean position a graduated disk with
angles is also present.
We can adjust the angular position and the linear position to our own desire.
Then weights are added and are fastened tightly.

Now the top is again placed on the apparatus and the motor is started.
The speed of the motor can be seen on the display unit.
We can also control the speed of the motor.
In an unbalanced condition there will be a vibration in the apparatus.
This process can be used to either find the position of the unbalanced
masses, or the unbalanced masses themselves, if position is known.

Observations and calculations:

Place

Mass
(gram
)

Radiu
s
(mm)

Angle
()

mr

mrCos

mr
Sin

Mome
nt
Arm
(x)

mrxCo
s

mrxSi
n

Lab #07
To find the time period and
frequency of an Edge suspended
Connecting rod
Apparatus:

Edge suspended connecting rod

Stand

Theory:
The connecting rod or con rod connects the piston to the
crank or crankshaft. Together with the crank, they form
a simple mechanism that converts reciprocating motion
into rotating motion. It serves as the intermediate
conversion device between two types of motion.

Procedure:

The connecting rod is placed on the stand smaller end upward and larger end
downward.
The apparatus is brought into equilibrium position.
Now a small angular displacement is given to the rod in either direction.
Now start the stopwatch to count the time taken to complete the oscillations
This process is repeated three times.
Now the rod is placed upside down i.e. the larger diameter hole is upwards
and the other downwards.
The same procedure is repeated for this position as well and the oscillations
and time is noted to calculate the frequency.

Observations and Calculations:

S.n
o

Number
of
vibratio

Time for
oscillatio
ns

Frequen
cy

ns

S.n
o

Number
of
vibratio
ns

(S)

Time for
oscillatio
ns
(S)

Frequen
cy

Lab # 08
Determination of spring constant
for a given free vibration
apparatus
Apparatus:

Free vibration apparatus

Graph paper
Masses
Pointer

Theory:
Spring constant is defined as the stiffness in the spring. It is a measure of restoring
force the spring applies due to the displacement. In the apparatus we place masses
in the carriage, and also we give some initial displacement to the apparatus. There
is stiffness of the spring element that arises. k is the spring constant, in Newtons
per meter (N/m), and x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium
position. The spring constant, k, is representative of how stiff the spring is. The
stiffer a spring is the more difficult is to stretch it.

Procedure:

On a free vibration apparatus roll a graph paper on the roller.

Now place some weight in the carriage.
Adjust the damping of the system, from the provided damper.
Now give the carriage of the apparatus a slight displacement. The apparatus
will start vibration.
At the same time start the motor to record the response of the vibrating
system.

As soon as the amplitude becomes zero stop the motor.

Add more mass to the system and again give deflection and note the
response of the system with the help of a graph paper.
This process can be repeated any times with the change of masses to ensure
there is a change in force which results displacement.

Observations and Calculations:

Lab # 09
Find the natural time period and
frequency of a comprehensive
flywheel apparatus.
Apparatus:

Comprehensive flywheel apparatus

Stop watch

Theory:
A flywheel is a rotating mechanical device that is used to store rotational energy.
Flywheels have a significant moment of inertia and thus resist changes in rotational
speed. The amount of energy stored in a flywheel is proportional to the square of its
rotational speed. Energy is transferred to a flywheel by applying torque to it,
thereby increasing its rotational speed, and hence its stored energy. Conversely, a
flywheel releases stored energy by applying torque to a mechanical load, thereby
decreasing the flywheel's rotational speed. Common uses of a flywheel include,
providing continuous energy when the energy source is discontinuous. For example,
flywheels are used in reciprocating engines because the energy source, torque from
the engine, is intermittent.

Procedure:

Make sure that the flywheel apparatus is in an equilibrium position

Now reset the stop watch.
Give a slight displacement to the flywheel and release it, and at the same
time start the stop watch.
Note the number of oscillations and also the time taken to complete it.
Now again bring the apparatus to rest and repeat the above process three to
four times and measure time for a specific number of vibrations.

Observations and Calculations:

S.
n
o
1
2
3

Numb
er of
oscilla
tions

Time
(sec)

Frequency
Oscillation
s/time

Lab #10
Demonstration and use of the
Forced Vibration Apparatus.
Apparatus:

Forced vibration apparatus

Graph paper

Theory:
The oscillator consists of a beam mounted in ball bearings at one end; a helical
spring is hung on the other end of the beam. The attachment of springs, the exciter
and a damper to a perforated panel permits a wide range of different set-ups to be
reproduced. Either an unbalance exciter or a displacement exciter generate
vibrations; the frequency of the vibrations can be adjusted using the electronic
control unit. The displacement exciter can be fitted directly to the base of the
spring. The vibrations can be damped using the adjustable viscosity damper. To
record vibration processes over time, a mechanical drum plotter is included.

Procedure:

A graph paper is rolled on to the drum roller to record the vibration.

Now the apparatus is connected to a power supply unit.
There is a controller present that controls the speed of the motor which
means it can control the frequency of vibration.
A linear dashpot is also present, with a bolt to vary its damping over a wide
range.
The damping is reduced to a low value and the motor is turned on.
We will see that the beam starts to vibrate.
Now the speed of the motor is increased.
As the speed of the motor increases the frequency of vibrations also
increases.
Now for the second time the damping value is adjusted to a maximum value.
Again the motor is started at the same frequency, now we can note that there
is less vibration in the beam.
The position of the damper can also be varied.
It it is more close to the vibrating end there will be more damping and less
vibration, but on the other if it is far away from the vibrating end the
magnitude of vibration will increase.