Abstract:
This paper describes a laboratory experiment for illustrating basic Strength of Materials concepts. This experiment was introduced in the Mechanical Engineering Technology Applied Strength of Materials course at Purdue University. The experiment illu strates combined normal stress due to bending and axial loading. This is an excellent tool for communicating basic Mechanics of Materials concepts while also stimulating interest and visual understanding. The experiment was developed for undergraduate e ngineering technology students but it is equally valuable for engineering students.