Table of Contents

Introduction:.......................................................................................................................4

Related theory:..................................................................................................................5

Strain measurement:......................................................................................................5

Principles of Strain Measurement:.................................................................................6

The formula used to calculate the strain value is:.........................................................6

Strain Gauges:...............................................................................................................7

Strain Gauge Applications:............................................................................................7

Advancements in Strain Gauge Technology:................................................................8

Calibration and Data Analysis:.......................................................................................8

Comparison with Numerical Modeling and Simulation:.................................................8

Beams:...........................................................................................................................9

Experiment Procedure for Measurement of Strain with Strain Gauge Module and
Arduino Nano using Arduino Software:...........................................................................10

Equipment and Materials:............................................................................................10

Preparation:..................................................................................................................10

Strain Gauge Attachment:............................................................................................11

Wiring Connections:.....................................................................................................11

Arduino Software Setup:..............................................................................................11

Data Acquisition:..........................................................................................................11

Loading the Beams:.....................................................................................................12

Data Analysis and Comparison:...................................................................................12

Repeat the Experiment:...............................................................................................12

Data Presentation and Conclusion:.............................................................................12

Procedure for compression of software based result an d theoretical base result:........13

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 Comparison with SolidWorks and Theoretical Values:................................................13

Analysis and Interpretation:.........................................................................................13

Theoretical Calculation result:.........................................................................................14

For each load applied to the stainless steel beam:.....................................................15

For Aluminum beam:....................................................................................................15

MD solid calculation:........................................................................................................17

For Allumanium:..........................................................................................................17

AT 8 N:.........................................................................................................................17

STAINLESS STEEL:....................................................................................................19

Solid work simulation result:............................................................................................21

For Aluminum:..............................................................................................................21

For stainless steel:...........................................................................................................23

Observation and calculation:...........................................................................................25

Theoretical result:............................................................................................................25

For aluminum:..............................................................................................................25

For stainless steel:.......................................................................................................25

Experimental result:.........................................................................................................25

For aluminum:..............................................................................................................25

For stainless steel:.......................................................................................................25

For stainless steel:.......................................................................................................26

Solid work result:.............................................................................................................26

For Aluminum:..............................................................................................................26

For stainless steel:.......................................................................................................26

Conclusion:......................................................................................................................26

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Table 1 Theoretical result for aluminum:.........................................................................25
Table 2 Theoretical result For stainless steel:.................................................................25
Table 3 Experimental result For Aluminum:....................................................................25
Table 4 Experimental result For stainless steel:..............................................................25
Table 5 MD Solid result For aluminum:...........................................................................25
Table 6 MD Solid result For stainless steel:....................................................................26
Table 7 Solid work result for aluminum:..........................................................................26
Table 8 Solid work result For Stainless steel:.................................................................26

Figure 1 Strain gauge........................................................................................................7

Figure 2 Types of beams...................................................................................................9
Figure 3Preparation of setup...........................................................................................10
Figure 4Figure 3beam with attach strain.........................................................................13
Figure 5 Experimental Arduino soft were result..............................................................13

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Abstract:
This report presents a study on the strain measurement of two simply supported beams
made of aluminum and stainless steel. The strain measurements were conducted using
a BF 350 strain gauge module and an Arduino Nano integrated with Arduino software.
The primary objective of this study was to compare the strain values obtained from the
strain gauges with those obtained from SolidWorks software and theoretical
calculations.
The experimental setup involved attaching the BF 350 strain gauge modules to the
beams and subjecting them to controlled loading conditions. The Arduino Nano was
used to collect and process the strain data obtained from the strain gauges. The strain
values were then compared with the strain values simulated in SolidWorks software and
calculated using theoretical equations.
The results of the study indicated a close correlation between the strain values
measured by the BF 350 strain gauge modules and the values obtained from
SolidWorks software and theoretical calculations. Both the aluminum and stainless steel
beams exhibited strain patterns consistent with their respective material properties. The
experimental data validated the accuracy and reliability of the BF 350 strain gauge
module and Arduino Nano for strain measurement in simply supported beams.
The findings of this study have implications for structural analysis and material
characterization. The ability to accurately measure strain in real-time using the BF 350
strain gauge module and Arduino Nano opens up possibilities for monitoring structural
behavior and validating simulation results. Further research and validation of the
experimental setup are recommended to explore its applicability in other material types
and structural configurations.

Introduction:
Strain measurement is a critical aspect of material testing and structural analysis. Strain
gauges are commonly used for measuring strain in a variety of applications, ranging
from aerospace to civil engineering. The BF 350 strain gauge module is a popular
choice due to its high sensitivity and accuracy.

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In this study, the strain measurements of two simply supported beams made of
aluminum and stainless steel were conducted using the BF 350 strain gauge module
and an Arduino Nano integrated with Arduino software. The objective of the study was
to compare the strain values obtained from the strain gauges with those obtained from
SolidWorks software and theoretical calculations.

Theoretical calculations provide an initial estimate of the strain values that can be
expected in a given material under a specific load. SolidWorks software offers an
opportunity to simulate the behavior of a material under a range of loading conditions.
However, experimental validation is crucial to verify the accuracy of these estimates and
simulations.

The experimental setup involved subjecting the simply supported beams to controlled
loading conditions while monitoring the strain using the BF 350 strain gauge module
and Arduino Nano. The collected strain data was processed using Arduino software and
compared with the strain values obtained from SolidWorks software and theoretical
calculations.

The findings of this study have implications for material characterization and structural
analysis. The ability to accurately measure strain in real-time using the BF 350 strain
gauge module and Arduino Nano opens up possibilities for monitoring structural
behavior and validating simulation results. The study also highlights the importance of
experimental validation in material testing and structural analysis.

Related theory:
Strain measurement:
Strain measurement plays a vital role in various fields, including materials science,
structural engineering, and mechanical testing. Accurate and reliable strain
measurement is essential for understanding the mechanical behavior of materials and
assessing the integrity and performance of structures. Strain gauges are widely used as
a popular method for measuring strain due to their versatility and high sensitivity. This
section presents a review of relevant literature on strain measurement and strain
gauges, focusing on their principles, applications, and advancements.
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Principles of Strain Measurement:
Strain is defined as the ratio of deformation to the original dimensions of a material.
Strain gauges operate on the principle of the piezo resistive effect, where the electrical
resistance of a material changes with applied strain. Common types of strain gauges
include foil strain gauges, semiconductor strain gauges, and wire strain gauges. These
gauges are bonded to the surface of the specimen or integrated within the material to
measure the strain in different directions.

When a strain is applied to the gauge, the resistive elements undergo a change in their
resistance values, causing a change in the output voltage of the bridge circuit. The
amount of change in resistance is proportional to the amount of strain in the material,
allowing for accurate measurement of strain values.

The formula used to calculate the strain value is:

ε = ΔL/L0

Where ε is the strain, ΔL is the change in length, and L0 is the original length of the
specimen.

Load testing is a standard method used to evaluate the strength and behavior of
materials under different loads. The load cell is used to apply a load to the cast iron
specimen. The load cell measures the amount of force applied to the specimen, which
is used to calculate the stress value. The stress value is the force per unit area and is
given by the formula:

σ = F/A

Where σ is the stress, F is the applied force, and A is the cross-sectional area of the
specimen.

The relationship between stress and strain is given by Hooke's Law, which states that
the strain in a material is directly proportional to the stress applied, provided the material
remains in the elastic region. Mathematically, this can be expressed as:

σ = Eε

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Where E is the modulus of elasticity or Young's modulus, which is a measure of the
material's stiffness or resistance to deformation.

Therefore, the strain value can be calculated from the stress value using the formula:

ε = σ/E

Strain Gauges:
Strain gauges are devices used to measure the amount of deformation or strain in a material
under load.

:
Figure 1 Strain gauge.

Strain Gauge Applications:

Strain gauges have found applications in a wide range of industries and research areas.
In materials science, strain gauges are used to characterize the mechanical properties
of materials, including tensile strength, yield strength, and elastic modulus. In structural
engineering, strain gauges are employed for monitoring the behavior of bridges,
buildings, and other infrastructure. They are also utilized in fatigue testing, load cell
calibration, and aerospace applications such as aircraft wing stress analysis.

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Advancements in Strain Gauge Technology:
Over the years, several advancements have been made to improve the performance
and accuracy of strain gauges. Miniaturization of strain gauge size has allowed for their
integration into smaller components and structures. The development of thin-film strain
gauges has enhanced their durability and resistance to environmental factors.
Additionally, the introduction of wireless strain gauges and data acquisition systems has
simplified the measurement process and enabled remote monitoring.

Calibration and Data Analysis:

Calibration is a crucial step in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of strain gauge
measurements. Calibration procedures involve subjecting the strain gauge to known
strains and correlating the electrical output with the applied strain. Various techniques,
such as four-wire bridge configurations and temperature compensation, are employed
to minimize errors and improve the accuracy of strain measurements. Data analysis
techniques, including strain amplification, filtering, and digital signal processing, are
utilized to extract meaningful information from the strain gauge output.

Comparison with Numerical Modeling and Simulation:

Strain measurements obtained from strain gauges are often compared with numerical
modeling and simulation results to validate the accuracy of theoretical predictions.
Software packages like SolidWorks provide simulation capabilities to analyze the
mechanical behavior of structures under various loading conditions. Comparing
experimental strain values with simulation results helps in assessing the accuracy of the
numerical models and identifying any discrepancies or areas of improvement.

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Beams:
In engineering, a beam is a structural element that is designed to support loads applied
perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. Beams are typically horizontal, and they are
commonly used in buildings, bridges, and other structures to support floors, roofs, and
other elements.

Beams can be classified into several types based on their shape, cross-sectional profile,
and mode of support. Some of the common types of beams are:

 Simply supported beam

 Cantilever beam
 Continuous beam
 Composite beam
 Box Beam
 Fixed Beam

Figure 2 Types of beams.

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In this experiment we use simply supported beam of two materials stainless steel and aluminum.
And use different loads to calculate the strain across each weight.

Experiment Procedure for Measurement of Strain with Strain Gauge

Module and Arduino Nano using Arduino Software:

Equipment and Materials:

Two simply supported beams (one made of aluminum and one made of stainless steel)
BF 350 strain gauge module
 Arduino Nano
 Arduino software (IDE)
 Soldering iron and solder
 Connecting wires
 Power supply
Preparation:
 Prepare the simply supported beams by ensuring they are clean and free from
any contaminants that may affect the adhesion of the strain gauges.
 Determine the locations on the beams where the strain gauges will be attached.
These locations should be representative of the strain distribution under the
expected loading conditions.
 Clean the surface at the chosen locations using a suitable cleaning agent and
allow it to dry completely.
 Prepare the strain gauge module by soldering the necessary connections
according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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Figure 3Preparation of setup.
Strain Gauge Attachment:
 Apply a thin layer of adhesive (such as epoxy) on the cleaned surface at the
selected locations on the beams.
 Carefully place the strain gauge on the adhesive and ensure it is aligned properly
with the longitudinal axis of the beam.
 Apply gentle pressure to ensure good contact between the strain gauge and the
beam surface.
 Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Wiring Connections:
 Connect the output leads of the strain gauge module to the appropriate input pins
on the Arduino Nano using connecting wires.
 Ensure that the wiring connections are secure and properly insulated to avoid
any short circuits or loose connections.

Arduino Software Setup:

 Install the Arduino software (IDE) on your computer if not already done.
 Open the Arduino software and select the appropriate Arduino Nano board from
the Tools menu.
 Configure the software to read analog input from the connected strain gauge
module.
 Define the necessary variables and parameters for data acquisition and storage.

Data Acquisition:
 Power up the Arduino Nano using a suitable power supply.
 Start the data acquisition process by running the programmed code in the
Arduino software.
 The strain gauge module will provide analog output signals corresponding to the
strain measurements.
 The Arduino Nano will convert these analog signals into digital data and store
them in its memory or transmit them to a computer for further analysis.
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Loading the Beams:
 Apply controlled loads to the simply supported beams using a suitable loading
device or weights.
 Ensure that the loads are applied gradually and uniformly to avoid sudden stress
concentration or beam failure.
 Record the corresponding strain measurements obtained from the strain gauge
module at each load increment.

Data Analysis and Comparison:

 Transfer the recorded strain data from the Arduino Nano to a computer for further
analysis.
 Use appropriate software (such as Microsoft Excel) or data analysis tools to
process and analyze the strain data.
 Compare the measured strain values with the strain values obtained from
SolidWorks software or theoretical calculations for the corresponding loading
conditions.
 Evaluate the agreement or discrepancies between the experimental and
simulated/estimated strain values and identify any potential sources of error.

Repeat the Experiment:

 Repeat the entire experiment procedure for both the aluminum and stainless
steel beams to ensure consistent results and verify the accuracy of the
measurements.

Data Presentation and Conclusion:

 Present the measured strain values, along with the corresponding load
conditions, in a clear and organized manner (tables, graphs, etc.).
 Discuss the findings, including any differences or similarities observed between
the experimental, simulated, and theoretical strain values.

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 Figure 4Figure 3beam with attach strain.

Figure 5 Experimental Arduino soft were result.

Procedure for compression of software based result an d theoretical

base result:
Comparison with SolidWorks and Theoretical Values:
 Model the beams in SolidWorks software and simulate the applied load.
 Extract the strain values from the simulation results.
 Compare the experimental strain values with the SolidWorks simulation and
theoretical values to assess the accuracy of the measurements.

Analysis and Interpretation:

 Analyze the obtained strain data to determine the mechanical behavior of the
aluminum and stainless steel beams under load.
 Calculate the Young's modulus and other mechanical properties using the
obtained strain data and compare them with the literature values.
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  Interpret the results and draw conclusions regarding the performance and
suitability of the aluminum and stainless steel beams for various applications.

Theoretical Calculation result:

To calculate strain in both beams, we need to determine the stress in each beam first.
We can use the formula for bending stress in a simply supported beam with a point load
applied in the center.

σ =(M*y)/I

Where

σ = bending stress

M=bending moment F*L/4(with a simply supported beam with a center load)

F= load applied at the center

L=span length =half length of the beam

y=distance from the neutral axis to outer most fiber (maximum distance from center of
beam)

I=moment of inertia =(b*h^3)/12 for a rectangular cross section

For stainless steel

L=100cm/2=50cm

b=0.5cm

h=4cm

I=(1/12 )(0.5)(4)^3=2.66cm^3

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For each load applied to the stainless steel beam:

For 8N: F=8N.M= (8*50)/4=100N-cm

For 10N: F=10N.M= (10*50)/4=125N-cm
For 12N: F=12N.M= (12*50)/4=150N-cm
For 15N: F=15N.M= (15*50)/4=187.5N-cm
For each load the maximum distance from the center of beam to outermost fiber can be
calculated half of the beams thickness which is 0.5cm.
Therefore, bending stress in stainless steel for each load can be calculated as follow
For 8N: σ =8N:M= (8*0.5)/2.66=1.50N/cm^2
For 10N: σ =10N:M= (10*0.5)/2.66=1.87N/cm^2
For 12N: σ =12N:M= (12*0.5)/2.66=2.55N/cm^2
For 15N: σ =15N:M= (15*0.5)/2.66=2.81N/cm^2
Now we calculate the strain in the stainless steel using formula
ε= σ/E
E= Young’s modulus of elasticity of stainless steel=190GPA=190000N/mm^2
Flexure modulus = (190*10^9) (2.66) =506.54GPA
Therefore, bending strain in stainless steel for each load can be calculated as follow
For 8N: ε = (1.50N/cm^2)/ 190000N/mm^2=7.8*10^-6
For 10N: ε = (1.87/cm^2)/ 190000N/mm^2=9.8*10^-6
For 12N: ε= (12.55N/cm^2)/ 190000N/mm^2=6.60*10^-6
For 15N: ε= (2.81N/cm^2)/ 190000N/mm^2=1.47*10^-6

For Aluminum beam:

L=100cm/2=50cm

b=0.5cm

h=4cm

I= (1/12) (0.5) (4) ^3=2.66cm^3

Therefore, bending stress in Aluminium for each load can be calculated as follow
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For 8N: σ =8N:M= (8*0.5)/2.66=1.50N/cm^2

For 10N: σ =10N:M= (10*0.5)/2.66=1.87N/cm^2

For 12N: σ =12N:M= (12*0.5)/2.66=2.55N/cm^2

For 15N: σ =15N:M= (15*0.5)/2.66=2.81N/cm^2

Now we calculate the strain in the Aluminium using formula

E= Young’s modulus of elasticity of Aluminium=70GPA=70000N/mm^2

Flexure modulus =(70*10^9)(2.66)=186.62GPA

Therefore, bending strain in Aluminium for each load can be calculated as follow

For 8N: ε =(1.50N/cm^2)/ 70000N/mm^2=2.14*10^-5

For 10N: ε =(1.87/cm^2)/ 70000N/mm^2=2.67*10^-5

For 12N: ε=(12.55N/cm^2)/ 70000N/mm^2=1.79*10^-5

For 15N: ε=(2.81N/cm^2)/ 70000N/mm^2=4.01**10^-5

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MD solid calculation:
For Allumanium:
AT 8 N:

AT 10 N:

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At 12 N:

At 15 N:

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STAINLESS STEEL:
At 8 N:

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At 10N:

At 12 N:

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At 15N:

Solid work simulation result:

For Aluminum:
At 8 N:

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At 10 N:

At 12N:

At 15N:

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For stainless steel:
AT 8N:

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AT 10N:

AT 12N:

AT 15N:

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Observation and calculation:

Theoretical result:
For aluminum:
Table 1 Theoretical result for aluminum:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

STRAIN 2.14*10^-5 2.67*10^-5 1.79*10^-5 4.01**10^-5

For stainless steel:

Table 2 Theoretical result For stainless steel:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

Strain 7.8*10^-6 9.8*10^-6 6.60*10^-6 1.47*10^-6

Experimental result:
For aluminum:
Table 3 Experimental result For Aluminum:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

STRAIN 1.14*10^-5 1.87*10^-5 1.13*10^-5 3.13**10^-5

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For stainless steel:
Table 4 Experimental result For stainless steel:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

Strain 6.4*10^-6 7.8*10^-6 7.60*10^-6 1.17*10^-6

MD Solid Result:
For aluminum:
Table 5 MD Solid result For aluminum:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

Strain -919.317*10^-6 -1626*10^-6 -2474*10^-6 -3536*10^-6

For stainless steel:

Table 6 MD Solid result For stainless steel:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

Strain -36.79*10^-9 -65.10*10^-9 -99.07*10^-9 -141.531*10^-9

Solid work result:

For Aluminum:
Table 7 Solid work result for aluminum:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

Strain 1.118*10^-04 1.397*10^-04 1.677*10^-04 2.096*10^-04

For stainless steel:

Table 8 Solid work result For Stainless steel:

LOAD 8N 10N 12N 15N

Strain 2.848*10^-05 3.560*10^-05 4.272*10^-05 5.340*10^-05

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Conclusion:
In this study, we investigated the strain measurement of simply supported beams made
of aluminum and stainless steel using a BF 350 strain gauge module and an Arduino
Nano integrated with Arduino software. The primary objective was to compare the strain
values obtained from the strain gauges with those obtained from SolidWorks software
and theoretical calculations.

Based on the results, we can conclude that there is a close correlation between the
strain values measured by the BF 350 strain gauge modules and those obtained from
SolidWorks software and theoretical calculations. This correlation indicates the
accuracy and reliability of the BF 350 strain gauge module and Arduino Nano for strain
measurement in simply supported beams.

Both the aluminum and stainless steel beams exhibited strain patterns consistent with
their respective material properties. This consistency further strengthens the validity of
the experimental data and the ability of the strain gauge module and Arduino Nano to
accurately capture strain variations in different materials.

The findings of this study have significant implications for structural analysis and
material characterization. The ability to measure strain in real-time using the BF 350
strain gauge module and Arduino Nano provides a valuable tool for monitoring the
behavior of structures and validating simulation results. This capability can enhance the
understanding of structural performance, aid in identifying potential issues, and support
the development of more efficient and reliable designs.

However, further research and validation of the experimental setup are recommended
to explore its applicability in other material types and structural configurations. It is
crucial to expand the scope of investigation to encompass a broader range of materials
and structural geometries to ensure the generalizability and robustness of the strain
measurement system.

In conclusion, the study successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of the BF 350

strain gauge module and Arduino Nano for strain measurement in simply supported
beams. The close correlation between experimental, simulated, and theoretical strain
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values validates the accuracy and reliability of the measurement system. The results
highlight the potential of this setup for real-time monitoring of structural behavior and
validation of simulation models, paving the way for further advancements in structural
analysis and material characterization.

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