Applied Mechanics Lab – MEC 424/ AHA/MCM Rev.

02-2020 (PKP)

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA

FAKULTI KEJURUTERAAN MEKANIKAL
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Program : Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) Mechanical (EM220/EM221)

Course : Applied Mechanics Lab
Code : MEC 424
Lab : Dynamic Lab
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Lab Sheet No : 1

Title : Free Vibration Experiment – Natural Frequency Of Spring

Mass System Without Damping

1.0 Introduction

Free vibration is vibration that takes place when a system oscillates under the action of forces inherent in
the system itself. The system under free vibration will vibrate at one or more of its natural frequencies,
which are properties of the dynamics system established by its mass and stiffness distribution.

2.0 Objectives

Upon completion of this experiment, students should be able to;

1. Determine the spring constant (k).

2. Determine the natural frequency (f).

3.0 Apparatus

Vibration apparatus which includes:

1. Base
2. Carriage
3. Adjuster
4. Helical spring
5. Guide roller
6. Additional mass
7. Guide columns
8. Mechanical recorder
9. Ruler

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 Applied Mechanics Lab – MEC 424/ AHA/MCM Rev. 02-2020 (PKP)

4.0 Experimental Procedure

Procedure 1: To determine the spring Constant K

1. Fit paper & Plotter pen.
2. Remove weight from carriage.
3. Use adjuster to set carriage such that plotter pen is on 20mm line on chart paper.
4. Load Spring by placing weight on carriage.
5. Briefly start recorder after each weight is added.
6. The stepped curve obtained from which the individual steps can be read.

Procedure 2: To determine natural frequency

1. Fit plotter Pen.
2. Attach chosen additional mass and secure with knurled nut.
3. Use adjuster to set height of carriage such that stylus is centred on paper.
4. Start recorder.
5. Deflect carriage downwards by hand and allow to oscillate freely until it comes to rest.
6. Stop recorder.
7. Repeat experiment with other additional mass.

5.0 Results and Discussion

Discuss the findings. Wherever necessary please use diagrams, charts and table to emphasize on findings.

6.0 Conclusion

Conclude findings from experimental data

7.0 References

List all references that have been made during the course of findings.

8.0 Appendixes

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 Applied Mechanics Lab – MEC 424/ AHA/MCM Rev. 02-2020 (PKP)

Appendix A: Theoretical contents