Frame Deflections and Reactions | FortiTestX-35

Key Features

Key Features

• Portal Frame Dimensions: two aluminium alloy frames, nominally 250 mm x 500 mm, 25 mm width
• Frame Sections: one uniform section (6 mm breadth), one non-uniform section (4 mm breadth on one leg) for comparative analysis
• Reaction Measurement: load cells at frame supports connected to a Digital Force Display for vertical and horizontal reactions
• Sway Measurement: digital deflection indicator at the top of the portal frame
• Load Application: masses on hanger applied at the top of this frame deflections and reactions apparatus
• Weight Set: 5x 0.5 N hangers, 150x 10 g weights
• Bending Moment Diagrams: plotted from measured moments and reactions, compared against theoretical calculations
• Analytical Methods: first-order elasticity theory, principle of superposition, principle of virtual work
• Optional Software: Software FX-35, LabVIEW-based, for data logging, results processing, and virtual experiments on any Windows operating system
• Optional Accessory: Automatic Data Acquisition system for automated experiment result collection and logging

Experiments

• Determination of frame vertical reaction forces upon loading
• Determination of frame horizontal reaction forces upon loading
• Relationship between load application and deformation on the frame
• Differences between statically determinate and statically indeterminate frames
• Familiarisation with first-order elasticity theory for statically determinate and indeterminate systems
• Application of the principle of superposition
• Application of the principle of virtual work on statically determinate and statically indeterminate frames
• Determination of a deformation by the principle of virtual forces
• Determination of a load by the principle of virtual displacement
• Comparison of calculated and measured deformations

Construction and Design

The Frame Deflections and Reactions FortiTestX-35 consists of hardware that attaches directly to a test frame. Two rectangular aluminium alloy portal frames, each nominally 250 mm x 500 mm and 25 mm wide, are supplied with the unit. The first frame has a uniform section with a 6 mm breadth throughout all members. The second frame has a non-uniform section, with one leg reduced to 4 mm breadth, resulting in a lower second moment of area on that leg. Each frame is secured to the test frame supports using clamps at each leg. Loads are applied via masses on a hanger at the top of the portal structure. Load cells at the supports feed signals to a Digital Force Display, capturing vertical and horizontal reaction forces in real time. A digital deflection indicator positioned at the top of the portal frame measures lateral sway under load. This frame deflections and reactions unit supports bending moment diagram construction from measured data and direct comparison with theoretical predictions. Optional LabVIEW-based Software FX-35 extends the apparatus to virtual experiments and automated data logging via an optional Automatic Data Acquisition system.

Software

Software FX-35 (Optional): LabVIEW-based software for data logging and results processing. Includes virtual experiments that simulate hardware testing and extend test conditions beyond hardware limits, including larger loads, uniform loads, and alternative test specimens. Compatible with any Windows operating system.

Scope of Delivery

• 1 experimental unit
• 1 vernier
• 1 ruler
• 2 frames
• 5 sets of weights
• 1 instruction manual

Optional Accessories

• Automatic Data Acquisition system for automated collection and logging of experiment results
• Software FX-35 (LabVIEW-based, Windows compatible)

Standards & Compliance

• Manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System
• CE Marking - European Conformity where applicable
• Supplied with calibration certificate, operation manual, and experiment guide
• 12-month manufacturer's warranty (parts & labour from installation)

Ordering & Delivery

• Incoterms: CIF to destination seaport, FOB Mundra/Nhava Sheva, or Ex-Works Ambala
• Lead time: 3–5 weeks production + sea transit to destination
• Payment: LC (Letter of Credit) or T/T bank transfer against proforma invoice
• Documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, insurance certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between the two portal frames supplied with the Frame Deflections and Reactions FortiTestX-35?
One frame has a uniform cross-section throughout (25 mm width, 6 mm breadth). The second frame has a non-uniform section, with one leg reduced to 4 mm breadth, giving it a smaller second moment of area on that leg. This allows direct comparison of structural behaviour between uniform and non-uniform portal frames.

Q2: How are reaction forces measured in this frame deflections and reactions apparatus?
Load cells mounted at the frame supports connect to a Digital Force Display, which measures both vertical and horizontal reaction forces produced by the applied loading.

Q3: How is sway measured?
A digital deflection indicator positioned at the top of the portal frame records lateral sway under load.

Q4: Does the optional software include virtual experiments?
Yes. Software FX-35 includes virtual experiments that simulate hardware testing and extend available test conditions to include larger loads, uniform loads, and different test specimens, beyond what is achievable with the hardware alone.

Q5: Is automated data collection available?
Yes. An optional Automatic Data Acquisition system is available for automated collection and logging of experiment results, and works in conjunction with the optional software.