EXPERIMENT 1: STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS I (TRUSS ANALYSIS)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This experiment serves as a guide and understanding on stress and strain relationship of the
truss elements. In addition, it is used to calculate the deflection of truss using virtual work
method with different assumed parameter such as different type of material.
2.0 OBJECTIVE
To determine the forces in member of a plane truss and deflection of the truss
3.0 APPARATUS
1. A modular truss kit
2. A screw jack for applying load to the truss
3. A data logger
4.0 PROCEDURE
1. A truss configuration was prepared in the laboratory.
2. All the channel reading was connected to data logger for recording the result.
3. All the screw jack was attached to the joint.
4. Length and thickness of each member was measured and recorded by using ruler and
Vernier caliper.
5. The initial reading of the internal forces was recorded for each channel member.
6. The 5N load was applied to the screw jack below the joint of channel 6.
7. The reading of the forces was recorded for each channel member.
8. Steps 6 to 8 was repeated by applying 10N, 15N and 20N to obtain different set of result
5.0 RESULTS
1. Compare experimental results with theoretical results for each member of the truss by using
method of joint or method of sections (whichever is applicable)
2. Calculate the stress and strain of each member based on your experimental results,
assuming the members is made of steel
3. Identify any error during conducting the experiment
4. Determine the deflection of the joint labelled CH01 using virtual work method for each
load.
6.0 ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION
Question posed to students to be addressed in the report:
1. Discuss the difference between experimental values of internal forces with the theoretical
values
2. Discuss on factors affecting experimental results.
3. Discuss in detail on virtual work method principles on truss on truss
In addition to the above question, students are required to conduct further readings or
research via reference books to enhance their discussion with strong justifications.
7.0 CONCLUSION
Students are required to provide a concise conclusion to the experiment performed, the accuracy
of measurements and results obtained, and suggest possible ways to enhance or improve the
accuracy of results obtained.
8.0 REFERENCES
Hibbeler, RC., 1991, Mechanics of Materials, 8th Ed. New York: Pearson.
EXPERIMENT 2: STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS I (SHEAR CENTRE)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This experiment serves as a guide and understanding on the location of the shear centre of the
C channel.
2.0 OBJECTIVE
To determine the shear centre of a thin section comprising of C- Channel and compared with
the theoretical position
3.0 APPARATUS
1. Thin C- Channel
2. 2 dial gauges
3. Set of weights
4. Vernier Calliper
4.0 PROCEDURE
1. Measure the width, depth and thickness of the C channel.
2. Position the two dial gauge on top at the end of the loading plate.
3. Measure the distance of each hole to the side surfaces of the C- channel web as shown in
the diagram below.
web
Measurethe distanceof everyole from the web
4. Record the initial values of both dial gauges prior to the loading.
5. Place a 20 N on the hanger and record the final reading of both dial gauge.
6. Repeat step 3 to 4 for the all the holes.
5.0 RESULTS
Record the deflection of both end of C section with the dial gauges
Compare the shear center location based on your experimental results with the theoretical
value.
6.0 ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION
Question posed to students to be addressed in the submitted report:
1. Discuss the difference between the experimental values of shear centre with the
theoretical values.
2. Discuss the effect of different geometry on the location of the shear centre.
3. Discuss the main factor affecting the theoretical and experimental results
In addition to the above question, students are required to conduct further readings or
research via reference books to enhance their discussion with strong justifications.
7.0 CONCLUSION
Students are required to provide a concise conclusion to the experiment performed, the accuracy
of measurements and results obtained, and suggest possible ways to enhance or improve the
accuracy of results obtained.
8.0 REFERENCES
Hibbeler, RC., 1991, Mechanics of Materials, 8th Ed. New York: Pearson.
