The Reynolds Experiment

The Reynolds Experiment

Background and Theory This laboratory aims to recreate the Moody diagram.  Moody plotted the Moody Diagram in 1944, and it is now most famous and useful tool in fluid mechanics. The accuracy of the Moody chart is +/- 15 percent [1]. “The Moody Chart gives a good visual summary of laminar and turbulent pipe friction…

Surface Tension of Liquids
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Surface Tension of Liquids

Background and Theory This laboratory experiment investigates the surface tension of different working fluids and how contamination can drastically affect surface tension. Surface tension is a result of the molecules deep within the fluid repelling each other while the molecules at the surface attract each other [1]. Introducing contaminates like detergents into the surface of…

Specific Gravity, Density and Viscosity of Liquids
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Specific Gravity, Density and Viscosity of Liquids

Background and Theory The object is to determine how the density, kinematic viscosity and dynamic viscosity of a sucrose solution, as the concentration of the solution are varied. Density is defined as ratio between the mass over the volume. [1] The expected outcome of this experiment is that there will be a correlation between concentration…

Column and Panel Buckling
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Column and Panel Buckling

Buckling is a physical occurrence observed in slender structures, such as columns, beams, rods or panel; when it undergoes bending due to applied loads, leading to eventual buckling. This phenomenon can result in the complete failure of the structure. Buckling occurs when the applied load surpasses the structure’s buckling load, which represents the maximum load…

Why understanding beam bending is important?
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Why understanding beam bending is important?

What is the importance of beams? The primary function of beams, regardless of the application, is to act as structural elements that transfer loads. In the civil engineering field, beams refer to horizontal elements which symmetrical sections, such as an i-beam. For example, in a building, beams support the weight of a building’s floors above, ceilings,…

Frequency Measurement and Sampling Rate

Frequency Measurement and Sampling Rate

Objective To measure the natural frequency of a vibrating cantilever beam with different lengths using different sampling rates. Known & Assumptions: Materials: The materials required: Thin aluminum beam Piezo-electric sensor Computer with labVIEW Clamp with steel plates Calipers Procedures: To begin measure the overall dimension of the cantilever beam using the calipers (width and thickness)….

Combined Stresses in a Pressure Vessel
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Combined Stresses in a Pressure Vessel

Objective To determine the normal stresses in the pressure vessel, and also to observe and material properties of the pressure vessel used. Finally, compare the calculated and measured stresses on the surface of the cylindrical pressure vessel subject to torque while pressurized. Known & Assumptions Materials: The materials required: Technovate Stress Analysis System Model 9800…

What is simple torsion and why is it important?
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What is simple torsion and why is it important?

What is an example of torsion force? An example of a torsional force would be anytime a force acting on an object results in a twisted or rotating motion. This twisting movement happens when an applied torque or force encounters an opposing force which generates shear strain. This opposing force could be a result of…

Forces in Truss Members

Forces in Truss Members

Objective To find and familiarize the stresses in the truss due to an externally applied load, and to see how geometry affects to stresses in the truss. Finally, the last goal of this experiment was to become familiar with strain gauge measurements. Known & Assumptions: Materials: The materials required: The triangular trusses Tinius Olsen Testing…

What is a Charpy impact test?
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What is a Charpy impact test?

The Charpy impact test, also commonly referred to as the Charpy V-notch test by material scientists, serves as a standardized high-strain rate examination to quantify the energy absorbed by a material upon fracture. The absorbed energy functions as an indicator of the material’s notch toughness. Widely employed in various industries, this test is favored for…