Model Description These figures demonstrate the two phases of a shape memory alloy which enables shape memory alloys to “memorize” their pre-deformed shape, even after large deformations. This demonstration should take 15 minutes. Engineering Principle The shape memory effect occurs due to a phase transition between the original, or memorized, austenite phase to a deformed […]
Model Description This is a simple demonstration to illustrate initial deformation, primary creep and secondary creep of a material subjected to a constant load over time. Students can observe a phenomenon over a few days that often takes years to complete. Students can compute the steady state creep rate and gain an appreciation for the […]
Model Description Knife blades are typically very hard and brittle. In this rapid and inexpensive demonstration, the structure of a steel knife blade is transformed through simple heating and the blade becomes capable of sustaining large deformations without rupture. This demonstration should take 5-7 minutes. Engineering Principle Knife blades are typically made of steels with […]
Model Description This is a demonstration that uses a fish tank to reinforce the definition of a fluid and some of the important physical characteristics associated with fluids. This demonstration should take 3-5 minutes. Engineering Principle A fluid is defined as a substance that continuously deforms when subjected to a shear stress. Additionally, the molecular […]
Model Description This is a series of demonstrations using a smoke tunnel for flow visualization, including laminar/turbulent flow and separation. This demonstration should take 10-15 minutes. Engineering Principle This demonstration can be used in the context of several lessons, including external flow, Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and lift/drag. External Flow/CFD: Properties within a flow field […]
Model Description This is a simple demonstration of the basic principles of internal fluid flow and can also cover major losses. The demonstration can cover concepts such as conservation of mass, volumetric flow rates, flow regimes, use of the Moody Chart and major head losses. This demonstration should take 10 minutes. Engineering Principle Internal flow […]
Model Description This is a demonstration that helps students visualize the effects of fluid pressure on various surfaces. Various cutout shapes are used, including plane and curved surfaces, which are submerged into a fish tank during the derivation of the hydrostatic pressure equation. This demonstration should take 8-10 minutes. Engineering Principle Hydrostatic forces acting on […]
Model Description This is a demonstration used to show the effects of head loss in pipe flow. A large water container (bucket or drum) with a hose is placed at a known elevation (see photo 1 in figure below). Different nozzle diameters can be used to demonstrate the effects of minor losses on pipe flow. […]
Model Description This is a simple demonstration of the difference between density and viscosity in fluid mechanics. Two equal size containers, one containing shampoo and the other corn syrup, are used to show the difference between the two concepts. This demonstration should take 5-8 minutes. Engineering Principle Most students are familiar with density and viscosity […]
Model Description This demonstration depicts the importance of rigging angles during crane lift operations on a construction site. Reducing rigging angles results in a significant amplification of forces in the rigging, potentially leading to failure. By varying the connection points and sling length, students will be able to calculate the predicted forces and analyze the […]