Lecture : DEFLECTION OF A

CURVED BAR
(Castigliano’s Theorem)

Objective: To compare the measured
deflection of a curved bar with the
calculated deflection.

Apparatus: Mild steel quadrant bolted to a
steel base-plate, Dial indicator, Weight
hanger, Weights, Rule, Cord.
Introduction
Though curved bars are not commonly found as structures by
themselves, they are usually part of a mechanical member which
has a combination of straight and curved elements. The study of
how curved bars deflect is thus, important so as to estimate the
total mechanical displacement of structures that incorporate
curved sections [2].
One of the more effective methods used to estimate deflections
in curved bars comes from Castigliano’s first Theorem.
Castigliano’s first Theorem.
Theorem.
Theory: If 3 is the total strain energy of a structure
due to the application of an external load W at point
O, in the direction OX, then the deflection σ at O in
the direction OX is :
1. Record the mean radius and x-sectional
dimensions of the curved bar.
2. Pass cord through the small hole at the tip
of the bar and attach the load hanger to the
end of the cord.
3. Zero the dial indicator. Load in increments
of 0.1 lbf up to about 1 lbf,
4. Record the deflection from the dial indicator
at each load. Repeat the procedure as the
load decreased.

Mean Radius, r =

Depth of the bar, d =

Width of the bar, b =
Weight Deflection

lbf N Loading Unloading Average Average

(mm) (in)
1.

2.

3.

4.
TREATMENT OF RESULTS:
Plot graphs of deflection versus W and
determine the gradient.

Assume for the mild steel bar, E = 30 x 106

lbf/in2, and calculate the theoretical value of
Deflection/Weight.

Comment on the graphs and its shape.

Discuss and explain any trends in the results

Discuss Castigliano’s Theorem

Prove the equation

Use equation to solve for the theoretical
values of deflection

Sample Calculations and Error

Comment on the Differences observed

Recommendations and Conclusion
1. Callister, 2012., 7th edition. Material Science
and Engineering. Retrieved 19th Sept. 2015.

2. Mirdo, S. 2002., 3RD edition. Deflection of

Curved Beams. Retrieved 20th Sept. 2015.