Plastic Bending of Portals

Description of Plastic Bending of Portals

Two portal frames (pitched and rectangular) are mounted within two “ground” supports, in either a pinned or fixed condition. A proportioning bar is held horizontally by loading chains that run to the Plastic Bending of Portals and to the screwjack loading mechanism (with integral load cell). Depending on the position of the loading mechanism on the proportioning bar depends on the extent of the load being applied either horizontally or vertically.

Experimental Capabilities of Plastic Bending of Portals

1. Verifies that hinges occur at positions of greatest bending moment
2. Studies the change in the collapse mechanism as the ratio of horizontal to vertical load is varied
3. Determines the increase in collapse load as the degree of redundancy increases

Specification of Plastic Bending of Portals

1. Studies the collapse mechanism of a portal frame when subjected to simultaneous horizontal and vertical loading; calculating and verifying position of greatest bending moment where plastic hinge is likely to form
2. The apparatus consists of the test portals, two ground foundations, loading pulley, loading cords, proportioning beam, screw jack loading mechanism and deflection measuring instruments
3. The ground foundations provide for pinned or fixed supports.
4. Two different shaped portal frames supplied, both typically made from 13x3mm black mild steel and with a span of 300mm
5. Screw jack mechanism with integral load cell with output to Interface
6. Comprehensive technical manual for student and lecturer and text book provided
7. Rectangular portal frames
8. Symmetrical gable (Pitched) portal frame
9. Must be used with universal Frame and Stand
10. Must be used with Interface
11. Comprehensive instruction manual provided