Experiment 7

Universal Testing Machine Bending

7.1 Introduction

Bending strength is defined as a material’s ability to resist deformation under load,

it represents the highest stress experienced within the material at its moment of
rupture. There are two types of bending tests. Three-point bending test and four-
point bending test. In a threepoint bending test the area of uniform stress is quite
small and concentrated under the centre loading point. In a four-point bending test,
the area of uniform stress exists between the inner span loading points (typically
half the outer span length). When a specimen is bent, it experiences a range of
stresses across its depth. At the edge of the concave face the stress will be at its
maximum compressive value. At the convex face of the specimen the stress will be
at its maximum tensile value. Most materials fail under tensile stress before they fail
under compressive stress, so the maximum tensile stress value that can be sustained
before the specimen fails is its flexural strength. The flexural strength would be
the same as the tensile strength if the material were homogeneous. Therefore, the
flexural properties of a specimen are the result of the combined effect of all three
stresses as well as (though to a lesser extent) the geometry of the specimen and the
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Experiment I. Universal Testing Machine Bending 36

rate the load applied. Bend testing provides insight into the modulus of elasticity
and the bending strength of a material.

7.2 Objectives

To study the behaviour of mild steel rod subjected to gradual increasing equal loads
at 1/3rd span and to determine its mechanical properties.

7.3 Apparatus Required

Universal Testing Machine, Dial Indicator, Scale and Vernier Callipers.

7.4 Test Specifications

Distance between 2 external loads = 160mm.

M σ f
I
= y
= R

7.5 Methodology

1. The mild steel rod was carefully played with its length along the X-axis.

2. The test had 2 modes and automatic modes.

3. The test was performed in the automatic mode in the lab using a computer
using the beforementioned specifications.
Experiment I. Universal Testing Machine Bending 37

4. There were 3 graphs Load-Displacement, Bending Moment, Stress-Displacement

Graphs obtained on the computer after the test was performed which showed
the required mechanical properties.

7.6 Results

Figure 7.1: Stress vs Displacement Graph

Figure 7.2: Bending Moment Diagram

Experiment I. Universal Testing Machine Bending 38

Figure 7.3: Load vs Displacement Graph

7.7 Discussion

Stop the experiment once the specimen has been yielded. Once the yield limit is
crossed, the specimen mild steel rod will have permanent bend or deformation as it
has crossed the elastic limit. This is the point after which the readings have been
taken.

7.8 Summary

The process of finding bending strength of a material through Universal Testing

Machine is discussed. Bending strength varies from one material to another material
depending upon its mechanical properties.