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Educational
PRODUCTS
 CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 1

2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE APPARATUS 3

Portal Frame 4
Speed Control Unit and Excitor Motor 4
List of Components 4

3 EXPERIMENTS 5
Experiment 1: Simple Pendulum 5
Experiment 2: Compound Pendulum 6
Experiment 3: Centre of Percussion 8
Experiment 4: Determination of the Acceleration due to Gravity by
means of a Kater Pendulum 10
Experiment 5: Bifilar Suspension 11
Experiment 6: Mass-Spring Systems 12
Experiment 7: Torsional Oscillations of a Single Rotor 14
Experiment 8: Torsional Oscillations of a Single Rotor with Viscous
Damping 16
Experiment 9: Torsional Oscillations of a Two Rotor System 19
Experiment 10: Transverse Vibration of a Beam with One or More
Bodies Attached 20
Experiment 11: Undamped Vibration Absorber 24
Experiment 12: Forced Vibration of a Rigid Body - Spring System with
Negligible Damping 25
Experiment 13: Free Damped Vibrations of a Rigid Body -Spring
System 27
Experiment 14: Forced Damped Vibration of a Rigid Body -Spring
System 29

4 REFERENCES 31

APPENDIX EXCITOR MOTOR AND SPEED CONTROL A-1

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
The TQ Universal Vibration Apparatus enables This manual primarily give details of the apparatus
studentsto perform a comprehensiverangeof vibration required and the experimentaltechniquesinvolved for
experimentswith the minimum amount of assembly eachexperimentin turn. Eachexperimentstartswith an
time andthe maximumadaptability. 'Introduction' dealing with the purposeand basictheory
The experimentslead the studentthroughthe basics involved. further sections detail the apparatus and
of vibration theory by, initially, very simple experimental method with reference to diagrams
experiments which make way for those of a more includedin the text.
extensivenatureas experimentalaptitudeincreases. finally, the form of calculationsand resultsis given,
Although the policy of the experimentsis to give the followed by any 'further Considerations'which may be
student a general insight into experimental methods, significant.
there hasbeensomeattemptto evoke further study and
critical appreciationby questionsposed at the end of
someof the tasks.
SECTION 2: GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE APPARATUS

Figure1 TM16universalvibrationapparatus
TQ Universal Vibration

Portal Frame List of Components

The apparatusshown in Figure I, consistsof a basic
IP~rt No. Descrl~ Experiment
portal frame, robustly constructedfrom square,rolled .
hollow section, vertical uprights and double channel 181 Pendulumsub-frame(crosa 1 ,2.3.4,5
horizontal members.The frame mountsOIl four castors
for easeof mobility. 82 S. Godball
Screwjacks allow the weight of the frame to transfer S. baR
to the floor during experiments,which enablesthe entire K ndulum ~
rig to be levelled prior to the experimentalwork and W ndul~
guaranteesrigidity. Sin ndulum .~
The frame has been fully machined so as to be 87 BiNar8~sion -- 5
adaptable to accept all the listed experiments. An
attractivewoodenstoragecupboardis titted at the front,
which housesall the componentswhen not in use.
~1 jTop adjustinga~1y (Spring) 6,12,13.14
C2 lG4JQe~sh~ - 1 6
C3 ~ing platform - ~
Speed Control Unit and Exciter Motor

TM18f ~RECI'IOH MOTOR '~EED UHIY

101;1 I~~...n_~
~~~
10
10
I

1= =,11fY
-- -
D3
D4 \ Out-of-balance discs

D5 I Beam ~
~

.-
-- .-- --0
-- 0'-
<D> i
\E1
~~ -

Trunnionmounting with lateral

m
14
- t2.1~.14

10,11

Su !2t!1
i E3
E5 Su It for micrometer 10,11
Figure2 Speedcontrolunit frontpanel layout

A d.c. motor is used for all forced vibrations

E6
F:11
Contactor
Rectan ular section base
precision motor speed ~
r10~3.14
10,11

10,11
experiments powered by a conb"Ol unit. This unit with exciter mdor and
combinationcomprisesof a control box and d.c. motor, raduated discs
whjch provides high precjsion speed conb"Olof the
motor up to 3000 rev/min, jrrespectjve of the normal G1 IVlbratio~ 8t1S9rber 11
load fluctuationsof the motor.
The front panelof the unjt containsa speedconb"Ol,
l!:!! Rdor (254mn diamet8f') .f
a fully calibrated speed meter incorporating an
I~ Rotor and additionalmassea ~
automaric range switchjng device (there being two I

ranges:0 - 1500 and 0 - 3000 rev/min), and power (16&':!!!dian!8ter) -

socketsfor:
l!1 ~~
Mains input;
d.c. motor; Shaftau t
Auxiliary output (either to a stroboscopeor chart
!
recorder),sometimesmarkeddrum supply. ~ Pe
Rotor8 drum
8
IK3 c!
~ ~r8nt 011
~ 8

Table 1

The oil suppliedwith the Universal Vibration Apparatus

is Shell Vitrea oil.
SECTION 3: EXPERIMENTS
Experiment 1: Simple Pendulum
Introduction Procedure
One of the simplest examples of free vibration with Measureand note the length /, the distance from the
negligible dampingis the simple pendulum.The motion bottom of the chuck to the centre of the ball. Displace
is simple harmonic, and is characterised by the the pendulum through a small angle 9, and allow to
equation: swing freely. Once settled,measurethe time taken for
50 oscillationsandrecordthe periodic time, t.
dlx
--=-8.% Repeatthe procedurefor variousvaluesof / for both
7 / the woodenball and the steel ball. Enter the results in
Table 2. Plot a graph for valuesof r againstvaluesof
The periodic time is:
length/.
t = 2n II Results
g
Time for 50 complete
In this experiment,the object is to analysethe above Length oscillations
- Period 't -r
equationfor the periodic time by varying the length of (m) Steel Wood Steel Steel
I
the pendulum, I, and timing the oscillations. The
0.10
independenceof the size of the massof the particle is
.15
demonstrated.
0.20
0.25
Apparatus
Sub-frame(crossbeam) BI 0.30
Smallwoodenball B2 0.35
Small steelball B3 0.40
lnextensibleflexible cord (not supplied) 0.45
Stopwatchor clock (not supplied) 0.50
Metre rule (not supplied)
Table2 Experiment1 results
Both the steeland woodenballs attachto lengthsof cord
approximatelyone metre long, each of the two cords
suspendingfrom the small chucksat either end of the
sub-frame. You can vary the length by pulling the
thread through the chuck and the hole above the sub.
frame.

8;1

0 0.10 0.20 0.30 0.40

Lengu, of pendulum, I (m)
Figure 3 Graph of -I against I for a simple
pendulum

The graphresultsin a straight line, giving a relationship

betweenr and I of the form:
r=KI
4~
where K is a constant equal to
g
Hence the value of g, the accelerationdue to gravity,
canbe determined.

Figure3 Further Considerations

I. What inaccuracies exist in this method for
calculatinga satisfactoryvalue for g?
2. How can you overcometheseinaccuracies?
fQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 2: Compound Pendulum

Introduction Apparatus
A rigid body that swings about a fIXed horizontal axis, The compound pendulum consists of a steel rod of
shown in figure 5, displacesthrough an angle 9 and is length 762 mrn and diameter 12.7min. The rod is
subjectto a restoringcouplemgh sinO. supported on the cross member B 1 by an adjustable
knife-edge which, when moved along the rod,
effectively altersthe valueof h discussedabove.

Procedure
Detennine the location of the centre of gravity of the
rod (midway alongthe rod).
For a given value of LI from one end, tighten the
knife-edge and then suspendthe rod by placing the
knife-edge on the cross beam so that it swings freely
through a small angle without any rotation of the
support.
Once the system is swinging freely measureand
Figure 5 Compound pendulum note the time taken for 20 complete oscillations and
recordthe periodictime, 'to
If anglee is sensiblysmall,the equationof motion Repeatthe procedurefor differing valuesof LI and
becomes: enter the values in Table 3. In order to perfonn further
tests, slackenedoff the knife-edge be and move along
d2e
-+ ~ ]e = 0 the rod to a new position. It is found that removing the
pendulum from the cross-beam to carry out any
~ IA
adjustmentsis the easiestmethod.

m = Massof the body; Results

h = Distanceof the masscentrefrom the swing The expressionfor the periodic time transformsto
axis;
9 = Angular displacement; rh=~2+~2
fA = Moment of inertia of the body aboutthe swing g g
axis. Plot a graph of rh to a baseof ~. Detenninethe slope
This is simple harmonicmotion so the constant: of the line g. and from the interceptdetenninek.

!!!!!!. =r02
IA
d 6L ' d" 2K Th" "
an ulepeno Ictlme t=-. IS gIves:
CD

't = 2nII
~-;;;gh

IA =IG + m~ (by the parallel axis theorem) Table 3

and Theoreticalvalue ofk can be found using Routh's Rule
In = mJ! which for a rod of small cross-sectiongives:
where k is the radius of gyration of the body about axis
through the mass centre parallel to the swing axis. .2 = c
Therefore,
 TQ Universal Vibration

Further Considerations
I. Calculatethe length of the simple equivalent
pendulum for theabovecasewhere

~ =21tH (simplependulum)
is equalto

for a compoundpendulum.

2. Find the two valuesof h which satisfythe resulting

quadraticequationgiving equalperiodic times.
 TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 3: Centre of Percussion

Introduction
If you subject a compoundpendulum supportedon a
horizontalpivot to an impact force at an arbitrary point,
there will be a horizontal reaction at the pivot. We can
liken this to a cricket bat striking a ball - thereis one
J
particular point at which the strike occurs, for which
there is no horizontal reaction at the pivot of the
compound pendulum. Such a point is the centre of
percussion.The location of sucha point is the object of
this particularexperiment. Sikiable~t;

Figure 7

Detennine the centre of gravity of the pendulum by

resting the board. with the steel weight at distancey.
&om a knife-edge support. The distance h &om the
knife-edgeof the pendulumto the balancingknife-edge
canthen be detennined(seeFigure 7).
For each position of the steel weight measurethe
time taken for 20 completeoscillations and record the
resultsin Table 4.
From the valuesof t and h in Equation(I) calculate
the valueof kAand comparewith the theoreticalvalues.

Results
Table 4 will indicate the variation of periodic time as
the radius of gyration about the point of suspension
varies.Calculatea theoretical value for k. the radius of
gyration about the centre of gravity, from the
Figure 6 illustratesthe apparatus,and consistsof a steel dimensionsof the pendulum.
ball as part of a simple pendulum (B6) and the
rectangularshapedwooden compoundpendulum (B5) Test Time for 20 kA k
having an adjustablesteel weight slidable in a central Number oscillations (m) 1m)
slot. Both are suspendedon steel knife-edgesfrom the
.1
horizontal cross-beam(B 1) at the top of the portal 2
frame. The simple pendulum is located in a V -groove
~
whilst the knife-edgeof the compoundpendulumrests
on the flat surfaceof the beam. ~
5

Part A: Determining the Centre of Table 4

Percussion
Part B: The Centre of Percussion in
Procedure
To fmd the centre of percussion of the compound Relation to the Point of Suspension
pendulum,first determinethe periodic time. From this Using the results of Part A, show that the centre of
the radius of gyration about the pivot axis, kA, can be percussion can be at a distance from the point of
found using formula: suspensionequalto its equivalentlength:
1*i 2
t = 21& k2 + h2
1=
gh h
where
(1)
/ = Length of the equivalentpendulum;
where
k = Radius of gyration about the centre of
h = Distancefrom the point of suspensionto the
gravity;
cenh'eof gravity and h = Distanceof the point of suspensionfrom the
kl = k2 + h2 (parallel axis theorem). centreof gravity.

~
 TQ Universal Vibration

Procedure movementpossible is that of the compoundpendulum

Adjust the length of the simple pendulum(86) so that resting on its flat support. It may be observedthat no
the length of the bob from the knife-edgeis equalto the horizontal movement is produced with the simple
length of the compoundpendulum. Allow the simple pendulum= I and that for any other values,horizontal
pendulumto swing, so that the sphericalbob strikesthe movement is produced. A pencil mark on the cross-
edge of the compoundpendulumat its perigee(lowest beam underthe initial knife-edgeposition may be used
point of its path) and causesthe latter to swing. asa referencemark.
By constraininghorizontal movementof the simple
pendulum in its V-groove, the only horizontal
TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 4: Determination of the Acceleration due to Gravity by means of a Kater

(reversible) Pendulum
Introduction Procedure
The Kater pendulum is a device for accurately Position the knife-edgesa set distanceapart, and then
determining accelemtiondue to gravity. It consistsof suspendthe pendulum from one of the knife-edges.
two adjustableknife-edgesand an adjustablecylindrical Allow the pendulumto swing ft-eely and measurethe
bob. Arranging their relative positions to give equal time taken for 50 oscillations, and from this find the
periodic times when suspendedfrom either knife-edge periodic time t..
producestwo simultaneousequations: Reversethe pendulumand suspendit from the other
knife-edge. By suitable positioning of the cylindrical
tl = 21t~ ~ bob, obtain the periodic time t2 to be approximately
1~ g~ equalto tl.
Rechecktl and carry out any further adjustmentsto
obtainan equaltime of swing.
Once t2 has beenaltered to be approximatelyequal
't2 = 21t1M~ ~ to tl, allow the pendulumto swing for 200 oscillations
V-~ and notethe times for both tl and t2.

47
and

~ =h]+k2
4r
By arrangement

4r r.+~
-=+ r.-~
g 2(11.
+~) 2(11.
-~)

Apparatus Figure 9
The apparatusrequiredfor this experimentconsistsof a
pendulum having two adjustable knife-edges and an Find the cenb'eof gravity of the pendulumby balancing
adjustable cylindrical bob (B4) suspendedfrom the it on a knife-edge and measuring hi and h2, the
hardenedsteelcross-beam(BI). SeeFigure 8. respectivedistancesof the knife-edgesfrom the cenb'e
of gravity. The distancebetweenthe two edges is the
lengthof the simple equivalentpendulum,L.

Results
Ih1=O.2om 1~.O.30m 1
1't1= 112. 1

Table 5

4r = J!f...:!~ + J!f...:!..:!ll
g 2(~+~) 2(~-~)
From which the valueof g is detennined
 TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 5: Bifilar Suspension

Introduction Knowing the periodic time and the magnitudesof the
The bifilar suspensioncan determine the moment of various parameters, the radius of gyration k and
inertia aboutan axis by suspendingtwo parallel cordsof thereforethe valueof I canbe determined.
equal length through the mass centre of bodies, as
shown in Figure 10. Angular displacementof the body Apparatus
about the vertical axis through the masscentreG is by Figure 10 showsthe apparatusand consistsof a unifonn
angle8, which is sensiblysmall. rectangularbar B7 suspendedby fine wires from the
small chucksas usedin Experiment I. Drawing the two
81 wires through the chucks and tightening alters the
lengths of the suspension.The bar is drilled at regular
intervals along its length so that two 1.85kg masses
may be peggedat varying points along it.

Procedure
With the bar is suspendedby the wires, adjust length L
to a convenientsize, and measurethe distancebetween
the wires, b. Displacethe bar through a small angleand
measurethe time taken for 20 complete oscillations.
From this, calculatethe periodictime.
Adjust the length of the wires, L, and measurethe
time taken for a further 20 swings. Increasethe inertia
of the body by placing two massessymmetrically on
either side of the centreline distance x apart, and
repeatingthe procedurefor various valuesof L and the
distancebetween the masses.Calculate the radius of
gyration k of the system as previously outlined.
Figure 10 Tabulatethe resultsin Table 6.

Results
I Test I L x J 't I k ~Jml/=m~!
number (m) (m) I (s) I (m) (ml) I (kg) I (kgmz)

1-
~
4
Table 6 Results for bifilar suspension

It is instructiveto comparethe value of I obtainedin a

particular test with the value of I detemlined
analytically,using L~mx2.
Figure 11
Further Considerations
This equationof the angularmotion is:
1. Somenoteworthypoints will have arisenas a result
Id2e mgb2 of performing this experiment. Write out your
, ~p- e conclusions.
dtL 4£
2. How would the radius of gyration, and hence
which may be written as: moment of inertia, of a body using the bifilar
suspensionbe determined?
" gb2
9+,--:-,-,9=0
4klL
Themotion is clearly simpleharmonicand the period is:

t = 47t6;- 2L
gb'
where I is moment of inertia about swing axis through
G(J=mf).
TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment8: Mass- Spring Systems

Introduction
A helical spring. deflecting as a result of applied force,
confonns to Hooke's Law (deflection proportional to
deflectingforce).
The graph of force against deflection is a stniigbt
line asshownin Figure 12.

Figure 13

Procedure: Part A
Figure 12 Fix the specimenspring to the portal frame, with the
loading platfonn suspendedunderneathand the guide
Ax rod passingthroughthe guide bush.Carefully adjustthe
Slope of the line is the 'deflection coefficient' in
4F systemto ensurethat the guide bush is directly below
metresper newton. the top anchoragepoint, since any misalignment will
The reciprocal of this is the stiffness of the spring produceexperimentalerrorsdueto friction. Friction can
and is the force required to produceunit deflection. A be minimisedby usinggreaseor oil aroundthe bush.
rigid body of massM under elastic restraint,supported Using the gauge measurethe length of the spring
by spring(s).fonDSthe basisof all analysisof vibrations with the platfonn unloaded.Add weights in increments,
in mechanical systems.The basic equation is of the taking note of the extensionin Table 7, until reachinga
form: suitable maximum load. Remove the weights, again
noting the length at each increment, as the system is
Mx=-k;x unloaded.From thesevaluesdetenninethe mean value
where k = stiffness of the spring of extensionfor the spring.

This clearly simple harmonicmotion of periodic time M DefI-.l:tlon x Mean k

t: ~. Loadlnq Unloadin~ Imml

~.
'C- ~
~7tJ¥ ...Q!
Q
Apparatus -.1!
Figure 13 showsthe requiredset-upfor the experiment. 2.0
Suspendanyone of the three helical springs supplied M
from the upper adjustableassembly(CI) and clamp to -1:!.
the top memberof the portal frame. ..1.1.
To the lower end of the spring is bolted a rod and M-
integralplatform (C3) onto which 0.4 kg massesmay be 4.0
added.The rod passesthrougha brassguide bush,fixed
to an adjustableplate (C2), which attachesto the lower Table 7
member.A depth gaugeis supplied which, when fitted
to the upper assemblywith its movable stem resting on Plot a graph for the extension against load, and from
the top plate of the guide rod, can be used to measure this determinethe spring stiffness,k.
deflection,and therebythe stiffness,of a given spring.
 TO Universal Vibration

Procedure: Part B
Add massesto the platfonn in varying increments,pull ~
down on the platfonn and releaseto produce vertical
vibrations in the system.For each incrementof weight
notethe time taken for 20 completeoscillationsin Table
8, and from this calculatethe periodictime, "to

: Meancoil diameter:
Meanwire diameter:
Number of coils:
0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0
At Time for 20 Period't ~ Mass,M (kg)
k oscillations (6) , (a2)
Figure 15 Part B graph

From dIe intercept of dIe line on the M-axis, the

,
effective massof the spring can be found (m). Compare
..
the value of m obtained with the generally accepted
value, that is, ~ massof spring. Repeatthe procedure
.
with the other springs provided.
Table 8
Further Considerations
Note that 1. State your conclusionsin the light of the results
obtained.Hasthe basictheory beenverified?
't2 = (~)M 2. From the experimentsso far perfonned,discussthe
relative merits of each in calculating an accurate
valuefor g. Criteria for your commentsshouldbe:
The mass of the rod and platform are included in M a. Easeof experimentation;
above.From Table 8 plot a graph of i againstM and b. Inherentinaccuracies;
find the slopeof the graph,g, and the M-axis intercept. c. Easeof computation.
m.
3. Choosing some typical results, what error is
introduced in calculating g by neglecting the
Results
effectivemassof the spring?

E
.5.
Ic
c
0
~
.
~

0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0

Mass, M' (kg)
Figure 14 Part A graph
TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 7: Torsional Oscillations of a Single Rotor

Introduction inertia of the smaller rotor. Two pairs of massesare

This is an exampleof simple harn1onicangularmotion. availableof approximately1800g and 3200 g.
The systemis comprisedof a rigid rotor at one end of an
elastic shaft. It is 'torsional vibration' due to the Part A: To Determine the Moment of Inertia
twisting actionon the shaft. of a Flywheel
Analysis of this situation is analogous to the
previousexperiment.Zero replacesdeflection x. and k, Procedure
which was stiffness, is now torsional stiffness of the The moment of inertia of a flywheel (one of the rotors
shaft. The polar moment of inertia of the rotor [, would be most suitable), can be found experimentally
replacesmassM. by the falling weight method. The flywheel mounts as
The equation of motion is 19 = - *-6, which is describedabove so that it can rotate freely on an axle
fitted to one of the vertical membersof the frame.
simple harn1onicmotion. It can be shown that the time In the caseof the smallerrotor with addedmasses,it
period,'t, is: is necessaryto clamp the rotor in the reversedposition,
since a complete revolution of the whole assemblyis
't = 2x fJi- impossible with the rotor clamped inside the portal
VOJ frame.
where: Attach a body of massm to a length of string. Wind
the string around the circumference of the rotor,
L = Effective length of the shaft; ensuringthat it loops arounda steelpeg projecting from
G= Modulusof rigidity of the materialof the shaft the rim. Allowed the body to fall through a measured
J = Polarmomentof areaof the shaft section. height h to the groundand recordthe time of descent,I.,
by a stopwatch (not supplied). Note the number of
Apparatus revolutions,n., during the accelerationperiod.
For experimentson undampedtorsional vibrations, the Find the number of revolutions, n2, and the
inertia is provided by two heavy rotors, cylindrical in correspondingtime, 12,from the instantthe body strikes
shape, one 168mm diameter the other 254 mm the ground to the instantthe rotor comesto rest. Adjust
diameter.Figure 16 shows the smaller diameter rotor, the length of string so that the string detachesitself as
H2. The rotor mounts on a short axle, which fits in the body strikes the ground. More than one test should
either of the vertical membersof the portal frame, and be performedto obtain averagevaluesfor n., n2and the
securesby a knurled knob. times II and 12'
The rotor is fitted with a chuck designedto accept
shaftsof different diameter.An identical chuck rigidly Theory
clampsthe shaft, which is an integral part of a bracket Apply the basic energy equation: W = M to the two
(II). This is at the sameheight as the flywheel chuck phasesof the motion of the system.
and adjustable,relative to the baseof the portal frame.
Three steel test shafts are supplied - 3.18,4.76and Accelerationperiod
6.35 mm in diameter,each965 mm long.
- TIn, (21t)= !!!..~2- 0]+ mg{O- h]+
2

Decelerationperiod

- Tfn2(27t)=i~ - 0)2
2
:liminating Tf from the above two equationsgives:
~ ..
mgh = ,mv'"+ J~ ~
II,
from which J canbe calculated

Notation
m = massof the falling body (kg).
h = height of fall (m).
Figure 16 v = maximum velocity of the body striking ground
(m/s).
By bolting two pairs of steel arms to each side and w = correspondingmaximum angular velocity of the
attachingheavymassesat eachend, we can increasethe
wheel (rad/s).
 TQ Universal Vibration

Results
L Time for 20 Perlod't
oscillations
~
{!!!.!!!l ~~L
~
~
200
~
~
375
450

Table 9

When performing a practical test the value of m should

not be too large, otherwisethe duration of the second
phaseof the motion runs into many minutes.A value of
m equal to about 0.05 kg is suggested.1 comes to
approximately0.18 kgm2

Palt B: Frequency of Torsional Oscillations

(Single Rotor System)
Having determined a value for I for a particular rotor by
the method described in Part A using one of the three
shafts, the frequency of torsional oscillations of a single
rotor system can be found experimentally. Compare the
result with theoretjcal prediction.

Procedure
Pass the shaft through the bracket centre hole, so that it
enters the chuck on the flywheel and then tighten. Move
the bracket along the slotted base until the distance
between the jaws of the chuck corresponds to the
required length L. Tighten the chuck on the bracket. Further Considerations
Ensure that the jaws securely grip the shaft. Displace 1. Using the falling weight method, if the string
the rotor (flywheel) angularly and record the time for 20 wrapped around the axle of the wheel instead of
oscillations. aroundits rim how would this affect the results?
Vary the distance between the chucks in suitable 2. What change(s)in procedurewould be necessaryif
increments by sliding the bracket, and record and you useda steppedshaft insteadof one of uniform
tabulate the values of periodic time for the various shaft sectionthroughoutits length?
lengths.Plota graphof -r againstL.
TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 8: Torsional Oscillations of a Single Rotor with Viscous Damping

Introduction oscillation traces on paper wrapped round the drum
In this experiment,the effect of including a damperin a mountedabovethe flywheel. Unit K2 consistsof a pen-
systemundergoingtorsional oscillations is investigated. holder and pen, which adjust to make proper contact
The amountof damping in the systemdependson the with the paper;the unit undergoesa conUolleddescent
extentto which the conical portion of a rotor is exposed over the length of the drum by meansof an oil dashpot
to the viscouseffectsof a gjven oil. clampedto the mainframe.

K1
Theory
The equationof the angularmotion is:

which may be written

d2e fA)
dt2'+a"di+b8 =0

C k
where a=- and b=-
J J

The angular displacement is:

e = ce(-a/2t)cos(Pt + ",)
where C and . are constants. K2
The periodic time is

2K
t=
P
Measuring amplitudes on the same side of the near K3
position,the nth oscillation is:

K4
XD

where n is a positive integer correspondingto the

numberof completeoscillationsstartingat a convenient
datum(I = 0).

Figure 18

You can use various diameter shafts, but due to the

Apparatus location and necessary fine adjustment of the oil
Figure 18 showsthe apparatus,and consistsof a vertical container the length is restricted to approximately
shaft gripped at its upper end by a chuck attachedto a 0.75 m. Measure the angular displacement of the
bracket(KI) and by a similar chuck attachedto a heavy flywheel by meansof a graduatedscaleon the upperrim
rotor (K3) at its lower end. of the rotor. An etchedmarking on the frame servesas a
The rotor K3 suspendsover a transparentcylindrical datumfor the measurementof angulardisplacement.
container,K4, containingdampingoil. The oil container
can be raisedor loweredby meansof knurled knobs on
its underside,allowing the contactarea betweenthe oil
in the containerand the conical portion of the rotor to
vary. This effectively varies the damping torque on the
rotor when the latter oscillates. Record damned
 TQ Universal Vibration

Part A: Determination of Damping Recorda trace of the amplitude of oscillation showing

Coefficient decayof the vibration due to the damping.The rate of
descentof the pen previously carried out will provide a
Procedure suitabletime scale.
Fill the cylindrical container K4 with oil to within From the trace given in Figure 20, measurefive
successiveamplitudesstarting with the initial one (n =
10 mm of the top. Adjust the knobs underneathto level
the oil surfacewith one of the uppergraduationson the 0) andtabulatethe resultsin Table 10below.
conical portion of the rotor, K3. A depth, d of 175mm
is suggestedfor maximum damping. Details of the Xn
graduationson the rotor are in Figure 19. n log.I~.
(mm)
&'.

0
i1 ~
~
2 ~
~ ~
~ ~
" Xs=
Table 10

Results
Plot a graphof lo8e(xo/ xn) to a baseof n. Confim1that
the dampingis viscous,and that the slope of the line is
equalto (at/2) (the logarithmicdecrement).
Selectand fit a suitable shaft, noting the length of the The period can be found by timing a convenient
shaftbetweenthe two insidefacesof the chuck,together number of oscillations using a stopwatch,whereupon
with the diameterof the shaft. Allow the pen to fall, and the constant,a, is detenninedand hencethe value of the
measurethe rate of descentof the pen (in mm/second) damping coefficient (the torque per unit angular
by timing the descentof the pen over a fIXed length of velocity) in Nm/rad/s-i. The polar momentof inertia of
paper,usinga stopwatch. the rotor is detenninedas in Experiment7.
The system is now ready for recording torsional
oscillations.Raisethe pen to the top of the paperon the Part B: Investigation of how the Damping
drum and rotate the rotor to an angle of approximately Coefficient depends on the Depth of
40° and then release.A trace of the oscillationscan be Immersion of the Rotor in the Oil
obtainedby bringing the pen into contactwith the paper
Repeat Part A for each oil level as defined by the seven
using the thumbnuton the supportand allowing the pen
graduations on the conical portion of the rotor.
to descend.
The damping coefficient depends on the area A of
the curved surface of the conical portion of the rotor
exposed to viscous damping. This area is equal to 1V/,
where r is the radius of base of core and / is the slant
height equal to [r2-;-j;i.
Plot a graph of damping coefficient to a base of A
times mean radius.

Results
Tabulatetheseasin Table II

Figure20
TQ Universal Vibration

r Mean radius Area A A.rm Perlod'f Damping

~
-
(mm) rm (mm)

~
(mm2) (mmJ) (s)
Constanta
coefficient

25.0 ~
37.5 18.75
~ 25.00
82.5 ~
~ ~
87.5- ~.75
Table 11 Results of torsional oscillation with viscous damping

~
g
1~
.
'5
0
c
.
~
c
~

!.
.
~
e-
s
~
c
"Q.
E
.
Q

0 100 200 300 400 L

Dwnplng.,.. x eff8Ct1ve (me.n) radius mm x 10

Figure 21

State the probable relationship between the two

parameters.
 TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 9: Torsional Oscillations of Two Rotor System

Introduction chucks fitted for use with shafts of various diameters.
With the addition of a second rotor, the apparatus Since both rotors axles are fixed to their respective
describedin Experiment7B can be usedto investigate vertical members,the length of the shaft may not be
the oscillation of a two rotor system.For sucha system variedbut three shaftsof different diameterare supplied
the periodic time is: andthreecombinationsof different inertiasarepossible.

t- ~
~ GJ(/. + /2
Procedure
One of the shaftsclampsbetweenthe two rotors H. and
H2 of predetenninedinertia. Recordthe effective length
where of the shaft measuredbetweenthe jaws of the chucks.
II = Momentof inertiaof therotor 1; Carefully tighten the chucksto ensurethat neither rotor
h = Moment of inertia of rotor 2; canslip relative to the shaft.
L = Length of the shaftbetweenthe rotors; Rotateeachrotor through a small angle in opposite
G = Modulus of rigidity of the materialof the shaft; directionsand then release.Torsional oscillationsof the
J = Polar second moment of area of the shaft system are thereby set up and the time for 20
oscillationsrecorded.
section.
The periodic time of the systemmay be determined
and comparedwith the theoretical value given by the
fonnula quoted in the introduction. Detennine the
momentsof inertia of the rotors the methoddescribedin
Experiment7.

Results
Polar secondmomentof area J = ~d4

The generally acceptedvalue of G for steel is 82 GPa

and for g 9.81 m/s2.

Further Considerations
When oscillating torsionally, the two rotors oscillate
back-to-backabout a non-moving section of the shaft,
called the node.It is instructiveto locatethe position of
the node for a given pair of inertiasand their shaft.This
can be doneby introducinga third (dummy) rotor in the
form of a cardboard disc (of negligible inertia) and
The apparatus,as in Figure 22, is that of Experiment7, moving it along the shaftto a position where it becomes
with the bracket (II) replacedby a secondrotor (HI) fixed in space.
which is free to rotate on a axle fixed to the left-hand
vertical member of portal frame. Both rotors have

Shaft diameter 11 12 Time for 20 Theoretical value of

Period 't
mm k~!!!~- -~~ oscillations
- period
~
3.17
~
4.76
_6.35
Table 12
TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 10: Transverse Vibration of a Beam with One or More Bodies Attached

Introduction leadsto the precisionspeedcontrol unit, which appliesa

The frequencyof transversevibrations of a beam with wjde rangeof exciting frequenciesto the beam.
bodies attached is identical to the critical (whirling) Clockwise rotation of the control knob on the speed
speed of a shaft of the same stiffness as the beam, control unit wjll increasethe speedof dte motor - thus
carrying rotors of masseswhich COITespond to those of increasingthe out-of-balancerotating force producedby
the bodieson the beam. the unbalanced discs. As the speed increases as
One has to think in terms of small size rotors, indicated by the speedmeter on the control unit. the
otherwisegyroscopiceffectsare involved. In the caseof beam begins to vibrate transversely.Over a discrete
a beam with just one body attached,the basic theory is band of frequenciesincreasingly larger amplitudes of
the sameas that in Experiment6. For a beamwith two V10ration are produced which reach a peak at a
or more bodies attached,other methodscan determine frequencycorrespondingto the frequencyof free natural
the frequency of free transversevibrations. Examples transversevibration of the system,i.e. beamplus added
are as follows: components.
Rayleighor energymethod(gives good results);
Dunkerley equation (only approximate,but quite
Part A: Transverse Vibration of a Beam
adequate); Procedure
Rigorous(accurate)analysis(arduous); Suspendbodies of different size mass, m, below the
Experimental analysis, using the equipment motor. For each massm, adjust the speedcontrol until
describedbelow, (fairly simple and quick). the beamvibratesat its naturalfrequency.
In order to determineaccuratelythe exact value on
Apparatus the speedmeter,it is expedientto takethe beamthrough
The basic apparatusfor dris experimentis in Figure 23. the rangeof excessiveamplitudesseveraltimes, noting
A bar of steel of rectangular cross-section(E6) is the limits of the range. From these, we can locate the
supportedat eachend by trunnion blocks. The left-hand fi'equencyat which the amplitude and resultant noise
support (01) pivots in two baII bearingsin a housing appearsgreatest.Recordyour observationsin Table 13.
locatedon the insideface of the vertical fi'amemember.
Mass m Frequency 1
~ x 10
kCJ ((Hz) f

Table 13 Tableof resultsfor Experiment10A

Results
A graphof (1/f to a baseof m givesa straight line, as
in Figure23.

The intercepton the vertical axis is equalto \

addedcomponents.
Natural frequency of the system, i. e. Deam

Natural frequencyof the beamby itself

The right-hand supportconsistsof two roller bearings, Dunkerley's equatior applicableto this situatior and
which are fi'ee to move in a guide block locatedon the is given by:
inside face.At the centreof the beambolt a small motor
carrying two 'out-of-balance' discs (part of Excitor +
Motor and SpeedControl unit). Connectthe motor via
 TQ Universal Vibration

HereJi = naturalfrequencyof a corresponding

light Pan B: Damped Transverse Vibration of a
beam with mass m attached. Clearly when Beam
m = 0, Ji = and/=h
00
Introduction
Evaluate and compare with the theoretical value Damping forces are counteractingforces in a vibration
obtainedfrom: system,which gradually reduce the motion. Damping
occurs in all natural vibrations and may be causedby
Coulomb friction (rubbing between one solid and
fb =
f~ another), or viscous resistanceof a fluid as in this
experimenton dampedtransversevibration of a beam
wherea dashpotis use.
where
L = Lengthof the beam(m);
F = Modulus of elasticity of materialof the beam Apparatus
This is shown in Figure 23 (the same set up as for
(N/m1; Experiment lOA, but with certain additions). In this
I = Secondmomentof areaof the beamsection;
experimentyou will require the amplitude of vibration
mo = Mass of the beam by itself (kg); no masses
and phaseangle.Fit a dashpot(02) and its support(E2)
~ - attached. to the beamto createdamping. Use the contactor(E5)
with its vertically mountedmicrometerto determinethe
Also, from the graph, when the systemis not vibrating
(period t = 0) f = and1/ 00 r
= O. The corresponding
amplitude and phase angle very accurately at any
exciting frequency. The electric circuit, of which a
value of massm is then equalto me,the equivalentmass stroboscopeis a part, completes when the contact
of the beam. me= Amo' whereA is a constant. element(E5) touchesthe plungerof the micrometer.
Determinethe value of A. How doesit comparewith
the generallyacceptedvalue ofO.5? Procedure
Allow the speed control unit time to warm-up, then
Further Considerations adjustthe micrometerplunger so that it just touchesthe
We can testthe validity of the Dunkerleyequationin its contactor.When the stroboscopeswitches to external
more familiar form by moving the motor with out-of- stimulus, a discharge occurs on contact. Take the
balancediscs away from the centre of the beam and micrometerreading.Use this value as a datum position
attachinga heavy body of known mass at some other from which valuesof amplitudemay be determined.
point on the beam. The Dunkerley equation then Energisethe motor to produce a definite amplitude
at a predetermined frequency. To determine the
becomes:
amplitude,lower the micrometerheadand then bring up
j = -j["i;11J:ii,+'~ again to produce contact. It is important that the
stroboscope discharges at a uniform frequency, so
careful adjustment must be made to ensure steady
Theh in this equationcould be the variable parameter conditions. At this point. find the amplitude of the
and a graph plotted similar to the one describedabove. vibration by comparing the new micrometer reading
A specialblock for attachingextra massesto the beam with that of the original datumposition.
and a suitablevibration generatorof variable frequency You may also fmd the phaseangle by focusing the
(not supplied with the standardequipment) would be stroboscopeon the graduateddisc on the motor shaft.
requiredto performthis additionaltest. Since the stroboscopic discharge should be at a
frequencycorrespondingto the rotational speedof the
motor, the disc may be effectively stopped and the
phaseangle correspondingto the datum mark on the
motor read off. By following this procedurefor a range
of frequencies,you can assessthe effect of dampingby
varying the piston areaof the dashpotand thus altering
the dampingcharacteristicsof the system.
Rotate the two orifice plates inside the dashpot
relative to one another to vary the effective area.
Comparethe resultsobtainedwith thesesettingswith an
undampedcondition (the system minus dashpot).Plot
graphs of amplitude and phase angle against the
frequencyratio, ro/OOn i.e. (excitingfrequency/natural
frequency).
Massm kg
phaseanglemay not be
Note: At low frequencies,
Figure 24 Graph of 1/r against m for the system
obtainable.

~
Ta Universal Vibration

Results Motor speed . Phase angle Amplitude

Motor speed w Phase angle Amplitude (rev/mln) . log (O) x max. (mm)
(rev/mln) w log (O) x max. (mm)
~ ~
~ eoo
~ 1.QQ...
~ ~
c.!!L ~
~ ~
~ ~
~ 121.9.
~ ~
.~ ~
~ ~
~ ~
~ .~
~ 1075
~ 1100
JJ.!!!. ~
).l!!l: ~
1300 1400
~ ~
~ ~
~ ~
.~ ~
2500
Table 16
Table 14
The results, in Tables 14 to 16, show the effect of
Motor speed Phase angle Amplitude increasingdamping on amplitude and phaseangle. For
(rev/mln) w log (O) x max. (mm) each damping condition a graph of amplitude against
frequencycan be plotted, from which a value for the
~ natural frequency for each damping condition can be
~ found. Typical values obtained in this way are as
..lQQ. follows:
~ No damping 17.36Hz
~ Light damping 17.50Hz
~ Heavy damping 17.58Hz
~
~ and from thesevaluesthe frequencyratio can be found
being the exciting frequency/naturalfrequency.Figures
~
25 and 26 are typical graphs of amplitude and phase
~ angleplotted againstfrequencyratio.
~
1055
~
12!§.
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
2500
Table 15
 TQ Universal Vibration

0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0

t. (Forclna freQuency)
fn (Natural frequency)

Figure 26

0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0

sg, (ForcinG freQuency)
CD. (Natural frequency)

Figure25
TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 11: Undamped Vibration Absorber

Introduction fixed equidistant from the midpoint of the horizontal

Excessive vibrations in engineering systems are cantilever.The distanceapart of the bodies varies until
generallyundesirableand thereforeavoidedfor the sake the systemis 'tuned'.
of safetyand comfort. It is possibleto reduceuntoward
amplitudesby attachingto the main vibrating sySteman Procedure
auxiliary oscillating system, which could be a simple For a given frequency, the massesof the vibration
mass-springsystem or pendulum. In this experiment, absorber are adjustable along their cantilevered leaf
you will examinethe vibration absorbabilityof a double spring so that the energy of vibration tJansmitsto the
cantileversystem. absorber and the amplitude of the main (primary)
system,i.e. the motor andbeam,is reducedto zero.
Apparatus The aim is to detenninethe length I, the distanceof
the centreof eachof the bodiesfrom the midpoint of the
cantilever so that the natural frequency of transverse
vibration of this sub-systemcon-esponds to the running
speedof the main (primary) system,i.e. the motor and
the beam.
The fonnula for detenniningI is:

f=~~
2n V.m13'
Here
f = Natural frequency of the sub (auxiliary)
system;
m = Massof eachof the bodies;
EI = Flexuralrigidity oftbe doublecantilever.

Figure 27

Figure 27 shows the vibration absorber(GI) clamped

below the motor. It comprisestwo bodies of equal mass
 TQ Universal Vibration

-
Experiment 12: Forced Vibration of a Rigid Body Spring System with Negligible Damping

Introduction
When external forces act on a system during its
vibratory motion, it is termed forced vibration. Under
conditions of forced vibration, the systemwill tend to
vibrate at its own natural frequencysuperimposedupon
the frequencyof the excitationforce.
Friction and dampingeffects,though only slight are Amplitude:
presentin all vibrating systems;that portion of the total
amplitude not sustained by the external force will
gradually decay. After a short time, the system will
vibrate at the frequency of the excitation force, Resonanceoccurs when b - <Ii = o. So the critical
regardlessof the initial conditionsor natural frequency
angularvelocity of the motor is given by .Jb.
of the system.In this experiment,observeand compare
the natural frequency of the forced vibration of a Note that in practical circumstancesthe amplitude,
rectangularsectionbeamwith the analyticalresults. althoughit may be very large, doesnot becomeinfmite
becauseof the small amountof dampingthat is always
Theory present.

Apparatus
~1

D&- 05.
. t

09, -Spring!

-:f
Figure 28 D1 I'
02' 01
The systemis shownin Figure28 and comprisesof: D3 [J6
Weight
1. A beamAB, of length b, sensiblyrigid, of massm,
freely pivoted at the left-handend.

.
t
2. A spring of stiffi1essS attachedto the beam at the
point C.
3. A motor with out-of-balancediscs attachedto the
beamat D. -
J5
M = massof the motor including the two discs. T -&..I.-..
'"
.. ! S- S.I
The equation of the angular motion is:

Figure 29

The apparatus shown in Figure 29 consists of a

mLZ rectangular beam (D6), supported at one end by a
I, ~ MLl +
1 trunnion pivoted in ball bearings located in a fIXed
housing. The outer end of the beam is supportedby a
the momentof inertia of the systemaboutthe pivot axis, helical spring of known stiffnessbolted to the bracket
where: C I fixed to the top memberof the frame. This bracket
e = Angular displacementof the beam; enablesfine adjustmentsof the spring, thus raising and
F0 = Maximumvalueof thedisturbingforce; lowering the end of the beam.
ro = Angular velocity of rotationto the discs. The Excitor Motor and SpeedControl (E II) rigidly
bolts to the beamwith additional massesplacedon the
The aboveequationreducesto the fonD: platform attached. Two out-of-balance discs on the
output shaft of the belt driven unit (04) provide the
d29
+ ho9 = Asinro/ forcing motion. The forcing frequencyadjustsby means
7 of the speedcontrol unit.
TQ Universal VIbration

The chartrecorder(07) fits to the right-handvertical unit time (i.e. the frequency) of the forced vibration
member of the frame and provides the means of beam.
obtaining a trace of the vibration. The recorder unit You need to known the speedof the paper on the
consists of a slowly rotating dnun driven by a chart recorder. To obtain this, record a trace for 20
synchronousmotor, operatedfrom auxiliary supply on seconds,for example, then measurethe length of the
the Excitor Motor and Speed Control unit. A roll of trace,thuscalculatingthe speedin rnrn/s.
recording paper is adjacentto the dnun and is wound Determine the values of the relevant parametersas
round the drum so that the paper is driven at a constant describedin the theory: lengths£., ~ magnitudeof the
speed.A felt-tipped pen fits to the free end of the beam; massesm and M, also the stiffnessof the spring.
meansare provided for drum adjustmentso that the pen
just touchesthe paper.A small attachableweight guides Results and Calculations
the paper vertically downwards. By switching on the Using a stopwatch,time the linear speedof the drum
motor, we can obtain a trace showingthe oscillationsof for 20 vibrations and determinethe time for one cycle
the end of the beam. (period of vibration). Using the two different methods
If the amplitude of vibration near to the resonance detennine the correspondingfrequency. Calculate the
condition is too large we can introduce extra damping relevantmomentof inertia.
into the system by fitting the dashpot assembly(part
numbers02, 03 and 09) nearto the pivoted end of the If
beam.
m
Experimental Procedure m
First plug the electrical lead from the synchronous
C~ m
motor into the auxiliary socketon the Excitor Motor and
Speed Control. Adjust the handwheel of bracket C I Table 17
until the beamis horizontaland bring the chart recorder
into a position wherethe penjust touchesthe recording
paper.
Switch on the speed control unit so the resuhing
forced vibration causesthe beamto oscillate.It hasbeen
found that a frequency of about 2 Hz is suitable, the The
position of the motor can be adjustedaccordingly.The
time for 20 oscillations will then be approximately 10
seconds.The chart recorder can record the number of S Nm-J
cycles performed by the beam in a given time
b=-= .,,: It
/A kgm2
(calculated,knowing the speedof the paper or, better
still, by visual counting).
Bring the pen into contact with the paper, then
recordthe numberof cyclesand calculatethe cycles per
 TQ Univel$8l Vibration

Experiment 13: Free Damped Vibrations of a Rigid Body Spring System -

Introduction dashpot(D2) and its clampsalongthe beam,and also by
During vibrations, energy is dissipatedand so a steady relative rotation of the two orifice plates in the dashpot
amplitude cannot be maintained without continuous to increaseor decreasethe effectiveareaof the piston as
replacement. Viscous damping in which force is in ExperimentlOB.
proportional to velocity affords the simplest
mathematicaltreatment. Procedure
A convenient means of measuringthe amount of Switch on the speedcontrol unit and connectthe lead
damping present is to measurethe rate of decay of from the motor of recorder unit 07 to the auxiliary
oscillation. This is expressedby the term 'logarithmic supply socketon the Excitor Motor and SpeedControl
decrement',which is defined as the natural logarithm of box. Set the dashpotat distanceL, (the distancefrom
the ratio of successiveamplitudeson the sameside of the trunnion mounting to the centre of the beamclamp
the meanposition (seeFigure 19). 09), and then pull the beam down a short distance,
In this experiment,the effect of the position of the underthe point of attachmentof the spring,andrelease.
dashpotand the correspondingdamping coefficient are Bring the recording pen into contactwith the paper
assessedin terms of the logarithmic decrement, to produce a trace of the decaying amplitude of
measuredby the decay in amplitudeof a free vibration vibration and thus produce a trace of the decaying
of a beam. appliedamplitudeon the chart recorderpaper.
For a given piston area,selectand obtain tracesfor
Theory various valuesof LI. Choosea different piston areaand
Referringto Figure 29, the disturbing force, FoSin!it is repeatthe process.
replaced by a damping force cL) ~
downward. The For eachpiston area and value L" use the trace to
dt evaluatethe logarithmic decrement.Find the periodic
equationof the angularmotion becomes: time of one complete oscillation, 't, in the manner
describedin Experiment12.To recap:
fAe = -(c49}L) - (s~e)~
Xo at
Ln- = -
which canbe put in the form: xI 2
9+a9+b9=O where:

The theory from now on is identical to that set out in a =-cIJ. and
Constant
Experiment8 (the samesymbolsare used).

Apparatus
The apparatus is as shown in Figure 28 and Figure 29 in
Experiment 12, except that the exciter motor is not From this the dampingcoefficient, c, the resistingforce
required since only free vibrations are of interest. The per unit relative velocity canbe determined.
Excitor Motor and Speed Control unit is required in
order to drive the drum on the recorder unit D7. The Results
system is set vibrating freely by pulling down on the Enter the results in Tables 18 and 19, one relating to
free end of the beam a short distance (15 - 25 mm) and maximum damping(orifice plates in the dashpotset to
releasing. Use the chart recorder to obtain a trace of just give maximum area) and the other to minimum
three successive amplitudes on the same side of the damping.
mean position. Vary the damping by moving the

Length L1 (m) Amplitude

.
ratio
x
-!- Log dec Log -
x
.
Period 't (8) Constant a
Damping coeff c
x, .!L (N/m S.1)

~
~
~
0.25
Table 18 Maximum damping
TQ Universal Vibr8tion

x x Damping coeff c
Length L1 (m) Amplitude ratio -!.. Log dec Log-!- Period 't (s) Constant a
X1 x, (HIm s-')

I 0.10

0.15

Q.~

Table 19 Minimum damping

Plot, on the samegraph,valuesof dampingcoefficient c

1:7 against L2. Figure 30 shows typical plots. The
logarithmic decrement,hence the damping coefficient
it . varies accordingto the squareof the distancefrom the
E MaxImum
I piston
. aree
I dashpot. Adjusting the position of the dashpoton the
Z
beamproducesany degreeof dampingby consultingthe
C.I
t7'

w
graph.This infonnation may be usedin Experiment14.

M
i
'A. E i
~ ~rea

S
7
 TQ Universal Vibration

Experiment 14: Forced Damped Vibration of a Rigid Body - Spring System

Introduction Dm = !.m!!-
£090
Having establishedthe effect of viscous damping on
free vibrations in the previousexperiment,the effect on
(3)
forced vibration is now analysed.To assessthe relative
magnitudeof the forced vibration, use the concept of It can be shown that:
'dynamic magnifier'. This is the ratio of the amplitude
of the forced vibration to the deflectionproducedif the
maximum value of the disturbing force F is applied
statically, underthe sameelasticrestraint.

Theory (4)
The out-of-balanceforce is: and in nearly all practical circumstances,damping is
2mrwl (two discs) 'light', andthereforea is sensiblysmall so

where
m = Mass corresponding to hole in each disc (kg);
Dm = 1-{~/~} .
r = Radius to centre of hole (m);
C1) = Angular velocity of discs(rad/s). (5)
(J) = Circular frequencyof the forced vibration
Note that the ratio of the rotationalspeedof the discsto (rad/s);
that of the motor is 22:72. Consider this when ~ = Circular frequencyof free undampedvibration
calculatingthe angularvelocity of the discs,(J) rad/s, (rad/s).
from the speedindicatedon the control unit.
Referring to Figure 29, the equationof the angular Apparatus
motion is: Figure 29 showsthe apparatuswith the dashpotadded
and the addition of an extra item: a plate clampedto the
!_-J 9 = (Fsin(JX)4~_~e)f1-(~9~ out-of-balancedisc. The plate holds a piece of circular
paper.
which reduces to the standard fonn: The recording pen fits to pivot (08), which clamps
9+00+b9 = Asinrot to the upper memberof the frame and clips above the
frame when not in use. The pen makes a trace of the
Only the steady-statemotion is of interesti.e. locus of the point at any radius on the rotor. Since the
{) = Asin(CIJt - 41) rotor is capable of vertical as well as rotational
movement,you can obtain a trace from which the phase
~(b-w2r+<0202 lag can be determined.

Procedure
The natural frequencyof the system is first found as
describedin Part 4 of Experiment 13, by analysingthe
free vibrations of the system,without the dashpot,from
a traceproducedon the chart recordingunit (D7).
Lfm = Fit the dashpotunit (D2) at a suitablepoint along the
90 beam to give a definite degree of damping (as
determinedin Experiment 13). Then rotate the exciter
discs at a very low speedand obtain a datum trace on
the papermountedon the plate attachedto the nearside
disc. Mark the position of the hole in the disc on the
trace.
Increasethe speed of rotation to develop forced
(2) vibration of reasonableamplitudein the beam.Obtain a
where second 'dynamic' trace on the paper mounted on the
plate. Also obtain a trace on the chart recorder at the
k = 84 (torsionalstiffnessof thebeam). right-hand end of the beam (as in Experiment 12) in
Deflectionsmeasuredarethoseof the endB of the beam order to determine the amplitude of the vibrations.
andaregivenbyx = Le so: Repeatthe procedurefor different speedsbelow and
above the critical speed to show how the value of
dynamic magnifier varies with frequency for a give
valueof the dampingcoefficient.
 TQ Universal Vibration

the exciting force and the resulting vibration, the

dynamic trace displaces along the datum line
correspondingto the out-of-balanceforce. Join up the
points of intersectionof the two tracesand draw a line
through the axis of rotation at right anglesto determine
the phaselag 9 for the various speedsof rotation of the
discs.

Results
Tabulatethe results as shown in Table 20 and 21, the
columns numbering is for the purpose of this
explanationonly.
There are two tables, one for die case of no
damping, the other for a definite degree of damping.
Presenta specimenof calculations in respect of each
table.

column (iii). Obtain the amplitude column from the

b'aceon the drum recorder07. The correspondingphase
angle lag, is obtained in the manneralready described.
UseEquations(2) and (3) to find the 'Static Deflection';
Detennine the phase lag from the traces recorded on the find Dmusing Equation(4).
paper as shown in Figure 31. Note that the dynamic
trace displaces relative to the axis of rotation due to the
vibration of the beam. If there is no phase lag between

I Excitor
(I)
motor locity
(rad/s)
!!!!l.
w
(iv)
Amplltude
X- (mm)
~Ph-. ~v
angle

(O) I
lag
(vi)
Static deflection
(mm)
I
~vm
Dynamic magnifier
speed (rev/min) Wn (Dm)

~
~
~
~
650
660
m.
~
~
a
Table 20 No damping

'II II Jill} I (Iv) (vi) (vII)

I Excitor motor Angular velocity w Amplitude I PM" ;~Ie lag Static deflection Dynamic magnifier
I

speed (rev/min) of disc m (rad/s) w x- (mm) I (O) (mm) I (D",) I

~
560
I ~ I
I 625
m
~
~
I -900 zoo

Table21 Dampino
 Ta Universal Vibration

Plot graphsof Dynamic Magnifier Dmand PhaseAngle

eachto a baseof the ratio oi~. Figures32 and 33 show 180
typical graphs. Obtain similar results for different
degreesof damping. 150

120
C
~
.190

60

30
, ,.

0~-
0.85
- ~-
0.90 0.95
I
1.00
J
1.05 1.10
.
1.15
m/m.
Figure 33 Phase lag against ratio oi~
SECTION 4: REFERENCES
J. Hannahand R.C. Stephens
-
"Mechanics of Machines Advanced Theory and
Examples"
EdwardArnold 1972London

W .T. Thompson
"Theoryof Vibration"
Allen & Unwin 1981London.

W.W. Seto
"MechanicalVibrations"
SchaumOutline Series,McGraw-HilI, 1964USA.

J.L. Meriam
"Dynamics- 2nd Edition"
JohnWiley 1971USA.

J.P. Den Hartog

"Mechanical Vibrations"
McGraw-Hili 1956 USA.

S.P. Timoshenko
"Vibration Problems in Engineering"
4th Edition, Wiley 1974 W. Sussex, UK.
APPENDIX: EXCITOR MOTOR AND SPEED CONTROL
Operation and Use overrides the front panel conb'ol. Connectionsto the
DIN connectorare:
A SpeedControl Unit comes as part of the Universal
PIN 1 PotentiometerSUpp1y
Vibration Apparatus. The unit provides complete bi-
PIN 2 'earth PIN 3' wiper
directionaldrive and high precisionspeedcontrol of the
Motorffacho-generator under all nonnal conditions,
Connection and Operation
using a closed-loopcontrol system.An amplifier detects
any difference betweenthe motor speedand the input Motor/Tacho-Generator, TM16f (F1)
commandvohageset by the 'Set Speed'control on the Ensure all switches are in the 'oW position before
front panel. The amplifier drives the motor until the proceeding and the motor and/or recorder has been
differenceis approximatelyzero. Provisionsfor the very physically installed as outlined previously.
high currents for acceleration and deceleration are
I. Connect the speed controller to a suitable mains
automatical. The speed control can maintain speeds
from 3000rev/min down to less than lrev/min when supply.
2. Connect the motor to the socket marked 'd.c.
usedwith the Motorffacho-generator.
motor'.
The front panel of the unit contains a 'set speed'
3. Switch the unit on and adjust ilie motor speed using
control, a fully calibrated speed meter incorporating
ilie 'Set Speed' control.
automatic range switching, a motor forward/reverse
switch, mainsinput socketand switch, d.c. motor power The unit will automatically switch to the COITeCtspeed
socket,external control and an auxiliary oUtput socket scale.
and switch.
Drum Recorder, TM16d (D7)
Set Speed Control I. Switchthe unit off.
A ten turn control giving increasing speed with 2. Connect the drum recorder to the socket marked
clockwiserotation. either 'auxiliary output' or 'drum supply240 Y'.
3. As (3) above.
Speed Meter 4. Switch on the drum recorderwhenrequired
The speedmeter has two ranges,0 - 1500rev/min and
0 - 3000 rev/min. Switching between these occurs Connecting the Speed Control Unit in
automaticallywhen the motor speedincreasesaboveor Conjunction with a Stroboscope (not supplied)
decreasesbelow 1500rev/min. The lamps below the I. Switch the unit off.
meterindicatesits range. 2. Plug the BNC T-piece into either of the socketson
the portal frame. Connect the 'trigger supply'
Motor Forward/ReverseSwitch socket on the speedcontroller to dte T-piece and
You canreversethe direction of rotation of the motor at connectthe T-pieceto a stroboscopeusing the BNC
any load or speed without damage. It is, however, to jack lead.
recommended that the motor is stopped before 3. Connectthe leaf contacton the motor to the other
reversing. BNC socketon the portal frame via its lead.
4. As (3) above.The stroboscopewill flash onceevery
External Control revolution of d1emotor.
A DIN connectorprovides connectionfor an external 5. Connectthe stroboscopeto a suitablemainssupply.
set speed control (I k.o.) which. when connected,