Torsion Of Rodes and Tubes

Lab 2
Group Members:
Names Student ID Course
Wetsho Raborokgwe 22000974 Industrial Engineering
Thobo Monageng 22000153 Geological Engineering
Bokamoso Kelebeng 22000946 Industrial Engineering
Phoebe Phagane 22000368 Geological Engineering
Setso Orekeng 220000571 Industrial Engineering
Thato Botsega 22000558 Industrial Engineering
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Declaration
This report was done by Setso Orekeng, Wetsho Raborokgwe, Phoebe Phagane, Thato
Botsega, Bokamoso Kelebeng and Thobo Monageng. We hereby declare that the following
lab report has been diligently conducted and compiled by us. Throughout the process, we
have each contributed our respective knowledge, skills, and efforts to ensure the accuracy and
completeness of the report. We affirm that all the information presented in this lab report is
based on our own work, research, and observations. Any external sources or references used
have been appropriately cited and acknowledged in accordance with academic standards.

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Abstract

This lab report investigates the torsional properties of a variety of specimens, including solid
and hollow circular rods, square aluminum specimens with distinguishing features and a
acrylic rod. The primary goals were to examine the torsional stiffness (G) of the rods and
tubes and to calculate the torsional constant (J) for square and aluminum specimens with
longitudinal slits. The experiment comprised applying these specimens to torsional stresses
and monitoring their responses, which provided information about their torsional behaviour
and mechanical properties. The results of the analysis provided understanding on the strength
and performance of the materials under torsional loading, allowing for a better understanding
of their engineering applications.

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Introduction and Theory

Introduction

Torsion refers to the twisting or rotational deformation experienced by a structural element

when subjected to a torque or twisting moment. Torsion is a crucial aspect of material
behaviour, particularly in engineering applications involving components. Analysing torsion
within the framework of strength of materials involves understanding the distribution of shear
stress across the cross-section of the structural element. According to classical torsion theory,
shear stress is proportional to the distance from the centre of the cross-section, reaching
maximum values at the outer surface and decreasing linearly towards the centre. This stress
distribution influences the material's torsional rigidity and its ability to resist torsional
deformation.

Figure 1: Experimental Apparatus

In this lab, we looked at how rods and tubes react when twisted. Torsion is when something
twists. We wanted to see how much they twisted when we put force on them. We did this to
understand how materials behave when they're twisted.

Understanding this is important for many things, like making car parts and tools. We had two
main goals:

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Firstly, we wanted to see how much force it takes to twist them. By putting force on them and
measuring how much they twisted, we could figure this out.

Secondly, we wanted to compare different materials. We tested rods and tubes made of
different stuff to see how they reacted. This helped us know which materials are best for
different jobs.

We applied force to the rods and tubes and measured how much they twisted. Then, we
looked at the data to learn more about how they behave when twisted. This helps us
understand how materials work in real-life situations.

Torsion happens because of the stress inside the material. The more stress there is, the more
the rod or tube will bend. Some important things to know about torsion are how much the
material can bend before it breaks, how stiff it is, and if it can handle repeated twisting
without breaking. We also need to watch out for buckling, which is when the rod or tube
collapses. Making sure the material can absorb vibrations and last a long time without
breaking is also important. So, knowing about torsion helps us make things that can handle
twisting forces without breaking.

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Theory

The modulus of rigidity (G) measures a material's resistance to shearing deformations,

especially under torsional loading scenarios. G is calculated empirically by studying the
torque-angular displacement connection, with the slope of the graph serving as a direct
measure. This characteristic is critical in engineering design because it affects a material's
ability to bear torsional loads without significant deformation or failure. Materials with
higher modulus of rigidity values are more resistant to torsional deformation, making them
ideal for applications needing high stiffness and strength under such conditions.
Understanding the modulus of rigidity allows for educated judgments in material selection,
component design, and structural analysis, assuring optimal performance and reliability in
engineering.

The torsional constant, J, is like a measure of how much a material can handle being twisted.
It shows how resistant a material is to twisting forces. If J is high, it means the material is
strong against twisting. Engineers use J to design things like shafts and beams, where
twisting forces are important. For different shapes, like tubes or squares, J looks at the size
and dimensions of the material. For example, in a tube with a slit, J considers the diameter
and thickness of the tube's walls. By understanding J, engineers make sure their designs can
handle twisting without breaking, keeping everything safe and working well.

A brief overview:

 Torsion: Tubes twist when a force is applied.

 J - Torsional Constant: Measures a tube's ability to resist twisting.

 Depends on Shape and Size: J varies based on the tube's shape and size.

 Engineering Importance: Crucial for designing shafts and beams to handle twisting
forces.

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Experimental Procedure

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