The Parabolic Arch Apparatus FortiTestX-27 is a structural mechanics training unit for engineering laboratories studying arch behaviour under load. This parabolic arch apparatus supports point and distributed load experiments through seven vertical hanger positions, with two dial gauges recording deformation at 0.01 mm resolution. The pre-shaped steel arch spans 960 mm with a 262 mm rise and a 20 x 6 mm cross-section, and can be configured as statically determinate or indeterminate by locking the roller bearing using weight sets. Optional LabVIEW-based Software FX-27 enables digital data logging and results processing on any Windows operating system.

Parabolic Arch Apparatus FortiTestX-27, Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Reference | FortiTestX-27 |
| Category | Strength of Materials and Structures |
| Arch Type | Parabolically pre-shaped steel arch |
| Arch Length | 960 mm |
| Arch Height | 262 mm |
| Cross-Section | 20 x 6 mm |
| Support Configuration | One fixed support, one roller bearing (convertible to fixed) |
| Load Application Points | 7 evenly distributed vertical hanger positions |
| Load Types Supported | Point load and distributed load |
| Dial Gauge Measuring Range | 0 to 25 mm |
| Dial Gauge Graduation | 0.01 mm |
| Frame | Integrated experimental frame |
| Storage | Dedicated component storage system |
| Instruction Manual | Included |
| Optional Software | Software FX-27 (LabVIEW-based, Windows compatible) |
Technical Data
Parabolically Pre-Shaped Steel Arch
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel |
| Length | 960 mm |
| Height | 262 mm |
| Cross-Section | 20 x 6 mm |
Weight Sets
| Weight | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 0.5 N hanger weights | 9 |
| 5 N weights | 32 |
| 2 N weights | 4 |
| 1 N weights | 4 |
| 0.5 N weights | 4 |
| 0.1 N weights | 10 |
Dial Gauges
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Measuring Range | 0 to 25 mm |
| Graduation | 0.01 mm |
Key Features
Experiments
Construction and Design
The Parabolic Arch Apparatus FortiTestX-27 is built around a pre-shaped parabolic steel arch with a 960 mm span, 262 mm rise, and a 20 x 6 mm rectangular cross-section. One end of this parabolic arch apparatus is anchored in a fixed bearing. The opposite end rests on a roller bearing, which can be immobilised using weight sets to simulate a fully fixed support condition. Seven equally spaced vertical hangers along the arch allow application of distributed or point loads at defined positions. Additional weight sets offset the horizontal thrust and vertical reactions at the fixed support. Two dial gauges are positioned to record horizontal movement at the moveable bearing and arch deflection under load, each with 0.01 mm resolution. All components are housed in an integrated storage system within the experimental frame for organised and safe storage between sessions.
Software
Software FX-27 (Optional): LabVIEW-based software for data logging and results processing. Compatible with any Windows operating system.
Scope of Delivery
Q1: Can the Parabolic Arch Apparatus FortiTestX-27 be used for both statically determinate and indeterminate experiments?
Yes. The roller bearing support can be locked using weight sets to create a fixed-fixed indeterminate configuration, or left movable for a statically determinate setup.
Q2: How are loads applied to this parabolic arch apparatus?
Loads are applied through seven equally spaced vertical hangers suspended from the arch, supporting both distributed and point load configurations.
Q3: What is the measurement resolution of the dial gauges?
The dial gauges have a graduation of 0.01 mm and a measuring range of 0 to 25 mm.
Q4: Is data logging software included with the FortiTestX-27?
Software FX-27 is available as an optional add-on. It is LabVIEW-based and runs on any Windows operating system for data logging and results processing.
Q5: What weights are included in the scope of delivery?
The unit includes 9x 0.5 N hangers, 32x 5 N, 4x 2 N, 4x 1 N, 4x 0.5 N, and 10x 0.1 N weights.