In mechanical engineering, buckling refers to the sudden failure of a structural component under compression, causing it to bend or buckle. This failure occurs when the applied compressive load exceeds the critical load that the component can withstand without buckling. Buckling typically occurs in slender structural elements, such as columns, beams, or plates, where the compression load causes them to bend or deform laterally. Understanding and analyzing buckling phenomena are essential in structural design to ensure the stability and safety of mechanical components and structures.
Motivation phase
Buckling experiment
One simple buckling experiment that you can conduct at home involves using a ruler or a thin strip of cardboard.
Materials needed:
- Ruler or thin strip of cardboard
- Books or weights for applying load
- Table or flat surface
Procedure:
Place the ruler vertically on a table or flat surface.
Gradually place books or weights on top of the ruler to apply a compressive load.
Observe the behavior of the ruler as more weight is added. You should notice that at a certain point, the ruler will suddenly buckle or bend under the applied load.
Record the critical load at which buckling occurs.
This experiment demonstrates the concept of buckling under compressive load and allows you to observe this phenomenon firsthand in a simple and safe manner at home. It also provides an opportunity for you to understand the importance of structural stability in engineering design.
Photo from https://epsassets.manchester.ac.uk/structural-concepts/Statics/buckling/buckling_mod1.php.
Information phase
Buckling in general
Buckling stress is considered in the case of an axially loaded rod. If the rod has a relatively small cross-sectional area compared to its length, then buckling occurs. Watch the presentation and learn how to calculate buckling.
Information phase
Watch the video
With this video explore some key topics relating to buckling, including Euler's formula, the effects of end conditions, and other aspects like the effect of column slenderness, inelastic buckling and the buckling of shells and plates.
