Quick Answer: The Plastic Bending of Beams experiment holds a specimen beam between two supports that can be set as simply supported, fixed or propped cantilever. A load cell assembly applies and measures the force at mid span while an indicator records the deformation.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Specimen beam between two supports with a choice of fixings: simply supported, fixed or propped cantilever
One support has roller bearings to allow horizontal translation
Load cell assembly applies and measures force at mid span
Indicator measures beam deformation
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Fixings
Simply supported, fixed, propped cantilever
Supports
Two; one with roller bearings
Loading
Load cell assembly at mid span
Deformation
Indicator
About This Product
The experiment shows how a structural element can yield and still carry load before it finally fails. With each fixing arrangement students predict where plastic hinges will form and the load that causes collapse, using textbook beam equations and bending moment diagrams, then compare with their measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which support conditions does the Plastic Bending of Beams experiment offer?
The specimen beam can be fitted as simply supported, fixed, or as a propped cantilever, using the choice of fixing methods on the two supports.
