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EM LAB Manual

The document outlines a series of experiments in an Engineering Mechanics lab, focusing on safety rules, lab layout, and various principles such as the Principle of Moment, Hooke's Law, and friction coefficients. Each experiment includes objectives, theoretical background, apparatus, and procedures for conducting the experiments. The aim is to provide students with practical knowledge and understanding of mechanical principles through hands-on activities.

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ZAKI BHAI
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
20 views26 pages

EM LAB Manual

The document outlines a series of experiments in an Engineering Mechanics lab, focusing on safety rules, lab layout, and various principles such as the Principle of Moment, Hooke's Law, and friction coefficients. Each experiment includes objectives, theoretical background, apparatus, and procedures for conducting the experiments. The aim is to provide students with practical knowledge and understanding of mechanical principles through hands-on activities.

Uploaded by

ZAKI BHAI
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Experiment No.

01: Safety Rules and Lab Layout of Engineering Mechanics

Objective

• Learn the essential safety rules for the Engineering Mechanics lab.
• Get familiar with the layout of the lab and the equipment used.

Safety Rules

1. Personal Safety:

• Wear safety goggles at all times.


• Lab coat and closed-toed shoes are required.
• Gloves for handling chemicals or sharp objects.

2. Handling Equipment:

• Know how to use the equipment before starting.


• Check tools for damage and report issues.
• Don't use equipment you're not trained on.

3. Work Area:

• Keep your space neat and tidy to avoid accidents.


• Secure wires and cables to prevent tripping.
• Don’t leave tools or equipment unattended.

4. Experiment Safety:

• Ensure equipment is stable and level.


• Use proper lifting techniques for heavy objects.
• Don’t overload machines or tools.

5. Emergency Procedures:

• Know where emergency exits and fire extinguishers are.


• Understand how to shut down equipment in case of emergency.
• Report accidents to the supervisor right away.
Lab Layout

1. Entry/Exit:

• Clearly marked exits with emergency routes.

2. Equipment Storage:

• Organized shelves for tools and instruments, properly labeled.

3. Experiment Stations:

• Workbenches with necessary tools and equipment, like force sensors or pulley systems.

4. Safety Equipment:

• Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency shut-off switches are easy to find.

5. Electrical Setup:

• Properly grounded power outlets and clear circuit breakers.

6. Ventilation:

• Ensure good airflow, especially when using heat or chemicals.


Experiment No. 02: To Investigate the Principle of Moment

Objective

• To study and understand the Principle of Moment.


• To verify the relationship between force, moment, and distance in rotational systems.

Introduction

The Principle of Moment (also known as the Law of the Lever) states that:

"The sum of the moments (torques) about any point in a system in equilibrium is zero."

Mathematically:
Moment (M)=Force (F)×Distance (d)\text{Moment (M)} = \text{Force (F)} \times
\text{Distance (d)}Moment (M)=Force (F)×Distance (d)
Where:

• F is the applied force,


• d is the perpendicular distance from the pivot point to the line of action of the force.

In simpler terms: The moment is the turning effect produced by a force. For a system to be in
equilibrium (not rotating), the total clockwise moments must balance the total counterclockwise
moments.

Theory

• When a force is applied to a body, it causes the body to rotate about a point (usually
called the pivot or fulcrum).
• The moment of a force is determined by multiplying the magnitude of the force by the
distance from the pivot point to the line of action of the force.
• The unit of moment is Newton-meter (Nm).

Principle of Moment in Equilibrium:


For a body to be in rotational equilibrium, the sum of the clockwise moments must equal the
sum of the counterclockwise moments:

Apparatus

• Beam or lever (with a pivot point)


• Known weights (or forces)
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Stopwatch (optional for dynamic experiments)
• Support stand or clamps
• Spring balance (for measuring force)
• Protractor (for measuring angle of force application)
Procedure

1. Set up the apparatus: Place the beam or lever on a stable, friction-free pivot so that it
can rotate.
2. Apply known weights or forces: Attach weights at different positions along the beam,
ensuring to measure the distance from the pivot point.
3. Measure the moment: Use the formula M=F×dM = F \times dM=F×d to calculate the
moment for each force applied.
4. Balance the beam: Adjust the position of the weights or apply counterweights to achieve
equilibrium (the beam should not rotate).
5. Verify the principle: Check that the sum of the clockwise moments equals the sum of
the counterclockwise moments.
6. Record observations: Take note of the distances and forces used to achieve equilibrium.

Observations and calculations:


Experiment No. 03: To Determine the Relation between Force and Displacement
of a Spring and Find the Spring Constant

Objective

• To investigate the relationship between the force applied to a spring and its
displacement.
• To determine the spring constant (k) using Hooke’s Law.

Introduction

A spring follows Hooke’s Law, which states:

"The force required to stretch or compress a spring is directly proportional to the displacement
(change in length) from its equilibrium position."

Mathematically, Hooke’s Law is expressed as:


F=k×xF = k \times xF=k×x
Where:

• F is the force applied to the spring (in Newtons),


• k is the spring constant (in N/m),
• x is the displacement from the spring's natural length (in meters).

This law holds true as long as the deformation is elastic, meaning the spring returns to its
original shape once the force is removed (within the elastic limit).

Theory

• When a force is applied to a spring, it either stretches (if pulling) or compresses (if
pushing).
• The spring constant (k) is a measure of the stiffness of the spring. A higher spring
constant means the spring is stiffer.
• The displacement of the spring is proportional to the force applied, and the constant of
proportionality is the spring constant.

Apparatus

• A spring with known dimensions


• A ruler or vernier caliper (to measure displacement)
• A spring balance or known weights (to apply force)
• A clamp stand (to hold the spring in place)
• A weight hanger (if using weights)
Procedure

1. Setup: Secure the spring vertically on a clamp stand.


2. Initial Measurement: Measure the natural length of the spring (when no force is
applied).
3. Apply Force: Gradually apply known weights (or forces) to the spring and measure the
corresponding displacement (stretch or compression) for each force.
4. Record Data: For each applied force, measure the displacement of the spring from its
natural length.
5. Plot Graph: Plot a graph of force (F) versus displacement (x).
6. Determine Spring Constant: The slope of the force-displacement graph will give you
the spring constant (k).

k=Fxk = \frac{F}{x}k=xF

The graph should be a straight line if the spring follows Hooke's Law, indicating a linear
relationship between force and displacement.
Experiment No. 04: To Determine the Coefficient of Static Friction on a Levelled
Plane (Between Steel and Sliding Mass)

Objective

• To determine the coefficient of static friction between a steel surface and a sliding
mass on a level plane.

Introduction

Friction is the force that opposes the relative motion of two surfaces in contact. The static
friction is the frictional force that resists the initiation of sliding motion between two surfaces.

The coefficient of static friction (μₛ) is a dimensionless quantity that represents the ratio of the
maximum static frictional force (FsF_sFs) to the normal force (NNN) acting between two
surfaces:

In this experiment, we will measure the force required to just start moving a mass (sliding mass)
over a steel surface, and use this to calculate the coefficient of static friction.

Theory

• Static Friction: Static friction prevents the initiation of sliding motion between two
surfaces. It adjusts itself up to a maximum limit, beyond which motion begins.
• The force required to overcome static friction and start the movement of an object is
directly proportional to the normal force (weight of the object)

Apparatus

• Steel surface (for the sliding mass to move on)


• Sliding mass (object whose friction is being measured)
• Spring scale or force sensor (to measure the applied force)
• Ruler or measuring tape (for measuring displacement)
• Weights (if needed to vary the normal force)
• Clamp stand or support for the spring scale
• Smooth horizontal surface

Procedure

1. Set up the apparatus: Place the steel surface horizontally and ensure it is level.
2. Measure the mass: Place the sliding mass on the steel surface. Measure and record the
mass of the object mmm.
3. Attach the spring scale: Attach the spring scale or force sensor to the object, ensuring it
is aligned horizontally.
4. Gradually apply force: Gradually pull the object using the spring scale, while observing
the force reading. Record the maximum force (just before the object starts to move).
5. Measure the normal force: For a horizontal surface, the normal force NNN is equal to
the weight of the object, i.e., N=mgN = mgN=mg, where g=9.81 m/s2g = 9.81 \,
\text{m/s}^2g=9.81m/s2.
6. Calculate the coefficient of static friction: Using the measured force FsF_sFs and
normal force NNN, calculate the coefficient of static friction μs\mu_sμs using the
formula:

μs=FsN\mu_s = \frac{F_s}{N}μs=NFs

7. Repeat the experiment: To ensure accuracy, repeat the experiment with different masses
or surfaces, if available, and calculate the average value of μs\mu_sμs.
Experiment No. 05: To Determine the Coefficient of Friction Between Steel and
Various Materials

Objective

• To determine the coefficient of friction between a steel surface and various materials
(e.g., rubber, wood, cloth, etc.).

Introduction

Friction is a force that resists the relative motion or tendency to such motion of two bodies in
contact. The coefficient of friction is a measure of how much force is needed to move one object
over another. It is given by:

Theory

The coefficient of friction can be classified into two types:

1. Static Friction (μₛ): The frictional force that resists the initiation of motion between two
surfaces.
2. Kinetic Friction (μₖ): The frictional force that resists the relative motion once the object
is already moving.

Apparatus

• Steel surface (smooth and clean)


• Various materials (rubber, wood, cloth, etc.)
• Weights or a known mass (to apply force)
• Spring scale or force sensor (to measure applied force)

Procedure

1. Prepare the materials: Collect the different materials (e.g., rubber, wood, cloth) that
you will use for the experiment.
2. Set up the steel surface: Place the steel surface horizontally and make sure it is clean
and smooth.
3. Apply force: Attach a spring scale to one of the materials (e.g., a rubber sheet) and place
it on the steel surface. Gradually apply force using the spring scale.
4. Measure the force: Record the maximum force required to just start moving the material
on the steel surface. This is the static friction force (Fₛ).
5. Measure the normal force: For a horizontal surface, the normal force NNN is simply
the weight of the material and the additional weight you apply (i.e., N=mtotal×gN =
m_{\text{total}} \times gN=mtotal×g).
6. Repeat for other materials: Perform the same experiment for other materials like wood,
cloth, etc., and record the static friction force for each.
7. Calculate the coefficient of friction: For each material, calculate the coefficient of
friction using the formula:

μ=FsN\mu = \frac{F_s}{N}μ=NFs

Where:

• FsF_sFs is the force required to initiate motion (static friction),


• NNN is the normal force.Analyze results: Compare the coefficients of friction for
different materials to see which has the highest and lowest friction when in contact with
steel.
Experiment No. 06: To Determine the Coefficient of Kinetic Friction on an
Inclined Plane

Objective

• To determine the coefficient of kinetic friction between a material (such as a block or


sliding mass) and an inclined plane.

Introduction

When an object moves over a surface, it experiences kinetic friction, which opposes the motion.
The coefficient of kinetic friction (μₖ) is a measure of the frictional force that resists the motion
between two surfaces in contact.

For a surface inclined at an angle θ, the forces acting on the object are:

• Normal force (N): Perpendicular to the surface.


• Gravitational force (W): Acting vertically downwards (mg), where m is the mass of the
object and g is the acceleration due to gravity.
• Frictional force (Fₖ): Opposes the motion and acts parallel to the surface.

The formula for the kinetic frictional force (Fₖ) is:

Fk=μk×NFₖ = \muₖ \times NFk=μk×N

Where N is the normal force, and μₖ is the coefficient of kinetic friction.

On an inclined plane, the normal force is given by:

N=m×g×cos⁡(θ)N = m \times g \times \cos(\theta)N=m×g×cos(θ)

Where:

• m is the mass of the object,


• g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²),
• θ is the angle of inclination of the plane.

Apparatus

• Inclined plane (smooth or adjustable to change the angle)


• Sliding mass or block (with a known mass)
• Spring scale or force sensor (to measure the applied force)
Procedure

1. Setup the inclined plane: Position the inclined plane at a known angle (θ) using a
protractor.
2. Place the sliding mass: Place a block or mass on the inclined plane and ensure it is free
to slide.
3. Measure the angle of inclination (θ): Use a protractor to measure and set the angle of
inclination of the plane.
4. Measure the applied force: Attach a spring scale or force sensor to the sliding mass and
measure the force required to move the object at constant velocity. The constant
velocity ensures that the frictional force exactly balances the parallel component of
gravity.
5. Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction (μₖ):
o Measure the angle of inclination (θ) of the plane.
o Repeat the experiment: Vary the angle of inclination and repeat the experiment
to calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction for different angles.

Observations and calculations:


Experiment No. 07: To Determine the Effect of Applied Load on Aluminum
Supported Beam System

Objective

• To investigate how different applied loads affect the deflection and stress in an
aluminum supported beam system.

Introduction

In structural engineering, understanding how external loads affect beams is crucial for designing
safe and efficient systems. The behavior of a beam under load is governed by bending.

Where:

• P is the applied load (N),


• L is the length of the beam (m),
• E is the Young’s modulus of the beam material (N/m²),
• I is the moment of inertia of the beam's cross-section (m⁴).

Theory

When an external load is applied to an aluminum beam, the beam bends according to the
following principles:

• Deflection (δ): The displacement of the beam from its neutral position due to the applied
load.
• Bending Stress (σ): The internal stress that develops in the material of the beam due to
the bending action. It varies along the length and cross-section of the beam.

In this experiment, we will focus on measuring the deflection and comparing how it changes as
different loads are applied to the beam.

Apparatus

• Aluminum beam (with known dimensions)


• Supports for the beam (e.g., simple supports or a clamped support system)
• Load application system (weights, force sensors)

Procedure

1. Setup the Beam: Secure the aluminum beam horizontally on two simple supports,
ensuring it is free to bend under applied loads. The supports should be positioned at both
ends of the beam.
2. Measure the Initial Deflection: Without any load applied, measure the initial deflection
of the beam using the dial gauge or LVDT placed at the center of the beam.
3. Apply Loads: Gradually apply known loads (using weights or force sensors) at the
center of the beam or at specified points, starting with a small load and gradually
increasing the applied load.
4. Measure Deflection: After each load is applied, measure the deflection of the beam at
the center (or the point of maximum deflection) using the dial gauge or LVDT. Record
the deflection values for each applied load.
5. Calculate Stress: Use the bending moment formula to calculate the stress at the midpoint
or other locations along the beam, based on the applied load and beam geometry.
6. Repeat: Repeat the experiment with varying loads to observe the relationship between
load and deflection, and if needed, use different beam lengths or cross-sectional shapes.
7. Record Observations: Ensure that all measurements (load, deflection, and beam
dimensions) are recorded accurately.
Experiment No. 08: To Determine the Effect of Applied Load on Brass
Supported Beam System

Objective

• To investigate the effect of applied load on a brass supported beam system, focusing
on how the load influences the deflection and stress in the beam.

Introduction

Beams are structural elements that are subjected to external loads, causing them to bend. The
magnitude of this bending depends on the beam's material properties, the applied load, and the
beam's geometry. The deflection (displacement) and stress distribution in the beam due to the
applied load can be quantified through beam theory, especially for materials like brass, which
has distinct mechanical properties compared to materials like aluminum.

The deflection (δ) and stress (σ) in the brass beam are influenced by the applied load (P), the
beam's length (L), the material's Young's modulus (E), and the beam's moment of inertia
(I).

The relationship between deflection and applied load for a beam can be expressed using the
Euler-Bernoulli beam theory:

δ=P×L348×E×I\delta = \frac{P \times L^3}{48 \times E \times I}δ=48×E×IP×L3

Where:

• P is the applied load (N),


• L is the length of the beam (m),
• E is the Young’s modulus of the material (N/m²),
• I is the moment of inertia of the beam's cross-section (m⁴).

For stress due to bending:

σ=M×yI\sigma = \frac{M \times y}{I}σ=IM×y

Where:

• M is the moment at the point of interest (N·m),


• y is the distance from the neutral axis to the point of interest (m),
• I is the moment of inertia of the beam’s cross-section (m⁴).
In this experiment, we will focus on understanding how the applied load affects the deflection
and stress in the brass beam and compare it to other materials, such as aluminum, based on their
respective material properties.

Theory

When a beam is loaded, it experiences bending that leads to a deflection. The magnitude of
deflection depends on:

• The applied load (P): Larger loads produce larger deflections.


• The length of the beam (L): A longer beam will deflect more under the same load.
• The Young’s Modulus (E): Brass has a Young’s modulus of approximately 100–120
GPa, which means it is relatively stiff compared to materials like rubber but less stiff
than steel.
• The moment of inertia (I): The moment of inertia depends on the geometry of the
beam’s cross-section. For a rectangular cross-section, it is given by:

I=b×h312I = \frac{b \times h^3}{12}I=12b×h3

Where:

o b is the width of the beam's cross-section,


o h is the height of the beam's cross-section.

Bending Stress varies along the length of the beam, and the maximum stress occurs at the
outermost fiber of the beam at its midpoint (for a simply supported beam under a point load).

Apparatus

• Brass beam (with known dimensions)


• Supports for the beam (simply supported or clamped)
• Applied load system (weights or force sensors)
• Dial gauge or LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) (for measuring
deflection)
• Ruler or Vernier caliper (to measure beam dimensions)
• Protractor (if angle of load application is needed)
• Micrometer (for measuring cross-sectional dimensions accurately)
• Weight set or force sensor (to apply known loads)
Procedure

1. Setup the Beam:


o Place the brass beam horizontally on two simple supports.
o Ensure that the beam is free to bend and is level.
2. Measure Initial Deflection:
o Before applying any load, measure the initial deflection at the center of the beam
using the dial gauge or LVDT.
3. Apply Load:
o Gradually apply an increasing load (using weights or a force sensor) at the center
of the beam. Start with a small load and gradually increase it.
4. Measure Deflection:
o After applying each load, measure the deflection at the midpoint of the beam.
o Record the deflection values for each load applied.
5. Calculate Stress:

o For each applied load, calculate the bending stress using the formula:

σ=M×yI\sigma = \frac{M \times y}{I}σ=IM×y

Where M is the moment at the midpoint, calculated as:

M=P×L4M = \frac{P \times L}{4}M=4P×L

(For a point load at the center of a simply supported beam).

6. Repeat:
o Repeat the experiment with increasing load values to observe the relationship
between load and deflection.
7. Record Results:
o Document the applied load, deflection values, and calculate the stress for each
load increment.
Observation and calculations:
Experiment No. 09: Finding the Shear Modulus of Rubber

Objective

• To measure the shear modulus (G) of rubber using a shear modulus apparatus.

Introduction

Shear modulus tells us how resistant a material is to shear deformation—basically, how it


stretches or compresses when force is applied parallel to its surface. For rubber, this means
figuring out how much it deforms when a force slides along it.

We calculate shear modulus using the formula:

G=F×LA×ΔxG = \frac{F \times L}{A \times \Delta x}G=A×ΔxF×L

Where:

• F = Force applied,
• L = Length of the rubber sample,
• A = Cross-sectional area of the sample,
• Δx = The sideways movement or displacement.

Apparatus

• Shear modulus apparatus


• Rubber sample
• Weight set or force sensor
• Dial gauge or displacement sensor for measuring movement

Procedure

1. Measure the Rubber: Measure the length (L) and cross-sectional area (A) of the
rubber sample using a caliper or micrometer.
2. Apply Force: Slowly apply a known shear force (F) using the weight set or a sensor.
3. Measure the Deformation: Use the dial gauge to measure how much the rubber moves
sideways (Δx) under the applied force.
4. Calculate the Shear Modulus: Plug the values into the formula:

G=F×LA×ΔxG = \frac{F \times L}{A \times \Delta x}G=A×ΔxF×L

5. Repeat: Try different forces and measure the deformation each time to get a more
accurate result.
6. Data Table
Experiment No. 10: Finding the Mechanical Advantage and Efficiency of a Screw
Jack

Objective

• To measure the mechanical advantage (MA) and efficiency of a screw jack.

Introduction

A screw jack is a simple machine that lifts heavy loads with relatively little effort by using the
mechanical advantage provided by the screw thread. The mechanical advantage (MA) is how
much easier the screw jack makes lifting compared to direct lifting. Efficiency tells us how well
the screw jack converts the effort into useful work, considering losses due to friction.

• Mechanical Advantage (MA):

MA=LEMA = \frac{L}{E}MA=EL

Where:

o L = Load lifted
o E = Effort applied
• Efficiency (η):

η=MAVR×100\eta = \frac{MA}{VR} \times 100η=VRMA×100

Where VR (velocity ratio) is the ratio of distances moved by the effort and the load.

Apparatus

• Screw jack
• Load (weights)
• Spring balance (for measuring effort)
• Measuring tape

Procedure

1. Set up the screw jack on a stable surface and place the load on it.
2. Apply effort (force) to the jack and measure how much force is needed using a spring
balance.
3. Measure distances: Measure how far the effort (handle) moves and how much the load
is lifted.
4. Calculate Mechanical Advantage (MA):

MA=LEMA = \frac{L}{E}MA=EL
5. Calculate Velocity Ratio (VR):

VR=Effort distanceLoad distanceVR = \frac{\text{Effort distance}}{\text{Load


distance}}VR=Load distanceEffort distance

6. Calculate Efficiency (η):

η=MAVR×100\eta = \frac{MA}{VR} \times 100η=VRMA×100

screw jack

Data Table
Load (L) Effort (E) Distance by Effort Distance by Load Efficiency (η)
MA VR
(N) (N) (m) (m) (%)
50 N 10 N 0.2 m 0.02 m 5 10 50%
100 N 20 N 0.2 m 0.02 m 5 10 50%
150 N 25 N 0.2 m 0.02 m 6 10 60%
Experiment No. 11: To Find the Moment of Inertia of a Flywheel

Objective

• To determine the moment of inertia of a flywheel.

Introduction

The moment of inertia (I) is a measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotational
motion. For a flywheel, it determines how much torque is needed to change its angular velocity.
The moment of inertia depends on the mass distribution relative to the axis of rotation.

For a flywheel, the formula for moment of inertia is generally given by:

I=∑miri2I = \sum m_i r_i^2I=∑miri2

Where:

• m_i is the mass of the individual elements of the flywheel,


• r_i is the distance of each mass from the axis of rotation.

In this experiment, we’ll use a known method to calculate the moment of inertia of a flywheel
based on its rotational motion.

Apparatus

• Flywheel
• Spindle or axle for rotating the flywheel
• Motor to rotate the flywheel
• Tachometer to measure the angular velocity
• Masses for applying torque (optional)
• Timer or stopwatch
• Scale (to measure mass if needed)

Procedure
1.
2. Set up the Flywheel: Secure the flywheel on its axle or spindle, ensuring it can rotate
freely.
3. Apply Torque: If using an external weight to apply torque, attach a known mass at a
known distance from the axis of the flywheel.
4. Measure Angular Velocity: Using the tachometer, measure the angular velocity of the
flywheel as it is rotated. Record the starting angular velocity and the time taken for a
specific number of rotations.
5. Calculate Moment of Inertia:
o Use the rotational analog of Newton’s second law:

τ=Iα\tau = I \alphaτ=Iα

Where:

▪ τ is the torque,
▪ I is the moment of inertia,
▪ α is the angular acceleration.
o From the measured angular velocity and time, calculate the angular acceleration
(α).
o Torque (τ) is calculated by:

τ=F×r\tau = F \times rτ=F×r

Where F is the force applied, and r is the distance from the axis of rotation.

6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11. Repeat the Experiment: For better accuracy, repeat the experiment with different
applied torques and angular accelerations.

Data Table

Torque (τ) (Nm) Angular Acceleration (α) (rad/s²) Moment of Inertia (I) (kg·m²)
2 N·m 1.5 rad/s² 1.33 kg·m²
3 N·m 2.0 rad/s² 1.50 kg·m²
4 N·m 2.5 rad/s² 1.60 kg·m²
Experiment No. 12: To Find the Coefficient of Friction Between Belt and Pulley

Objective

• To determine the coefficient of friction between a belt and a pulley.

Introduction

The coefficient of friction (μ) between a belt and a pulley is a crucial parameter in mechanical
systems where belts are used to transmit power. It determines the amount of force needed to
move the belt over the pulley without slipping. The coefficient of friction depends on the
materials of the belt and pulley, as well as the surface roughness.

In this experiment, we will determine the coefficient of friction using the Capstan equation,
which relates the tension difference on either side of the pulley to the coefficient of friction:

μ=ln⁡(T1T2)θ\mu = \frac{\ln\left(\frac{T_1}{T_2}\right)}{\theta}μ=θln(T2T1)

Where:

• T₁ = Tension on the tight side of the belt


• T₂ = Tension on the slack side of the belt
• θ = Angle of contact between the belt and the pulley (in radians)

Apparatus

• Belt and pulley system


• Spring scales (to measure tension)
• Pulley with a known radius
• Protractor or angle measuring device (for measuring the angle of contact)
• Weights to apply tension
• Ruler or measuring tape

Procedure

1. Set Up the System:


o Place the belt over the pulley. Attach the spring scales to measure the tension on
both sides of the belt (tight and slack sides).
2. Apply Tension:
o Apply a known load (using weights) on one side of the belt and measure the
tension (T₁) on the tight side using the spring scale.
o On the other side of the belt, apply a known load to measure the tension (T₂) on
the slack side.
3. Measure the Angle:
o Measure the angle θ of the belt’s contact with the pulley. This is the angle
between the points where the belt first and last touch the pulley.
4. Calculate the Coefficient of Friction:
o Use the Capstan equation to calculate the coefficient of friction (μ):

μ=ln⁡(T1T2)θ\mu = \frac{\ln\left(\frac{T_1}{T_2}\right)}{\theta}μ=θln(T2T1)

5. Repeat the Experiment:


o Repeat the experiment with different tensions (T₁ and T₂) and angles (θ) to verify
the results.

Data Table

Tension (T₁) Tension (T₂) Angle of Contact (θ) Coefficient of Friction


(N) (N) (radians) (μ)
10 N 5N 0.5 rad 0.693
15 N 7N 0.6 rad 0.724
20 N 10 N 0.7 rad 0.757

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