Complete Report Lab 1

MEC 424 – APPLIED MECHANICS LAB 1
Dynamics – Free Vibration ( Natural frequency of spring mass system without damping)
1.0 Title
Free Vibration Experiment – Natural Frequency of Spring Mass System Without Damping
2.0 List of Tables

2.1 Table of spring constant ……………………….…….... Separate sheet
2.2 Table of natural frequency ……………………..…..…. Separate sheet
2.3 Table1: Force exerted by load on the system and
respectively resulting in the spring’s extension ……………….. page 8
2.4 Table 2: Analyzed data from the oscillations of the
spring-mass system ……………………………………………… page 8
2.5 Table 3: Comparison on fexperimental and ftheoretical …….. page 8
3.0 List of Figures

3.1 Figure of spring constant ………………………………………. page 3
3.2 Figure of natural oscillation ……………………………………. page 3
3.3 Figure of undamped oscillation.1 ……………………………… page 4
3.4 Figure of undamped oscillation.2 ……………………………… page 4
3.5 Figure of vibration apparatus ………………………………….. page 6
3.6 Figure of graph of force , N versus extension , mm ……….….. page 10

4.0 Introduction
Free vibration means that no time varying external forces act on the system. It takes place in a
system which oscillates under the action of forces inherent in the system itself due to initial
disturbance, and when the external impressed forces are absent theoretically. In a real system,
the energy is actually dissipated to the surroundings over time which then reduces the
amplitude to zero.
Degree of freedom is important in locating the exact location and orientation in space of a
body. Some examples of vibration with one degree of freedom are,
i. Pendulum swinging back and forth

ii. A floating body bobs up and down in water

5.0 Theory
Free vibration is a vibration in which energy is neither added to or removed from the
vibrating system. The system will continue to vibrate with the same amplitude. The energy of
a vibrating system is related to the amplitude such that the higher the amplitude, the higher
the energy. In all, vibration system is always subjected to Hooke’s Law which states that, a
small deformations of an object is directly proportional to the deforming force or load
applied. For example, a stretched spring will return to its original length or shape after
removal of load under the system conditions.
(i) Spring Constant, k

Spring constant, k is defined as the applied force if the spring is unity.
F= k x
Where,
k = spring constant [N/m]
x= displacement
Figure 1 : Spring constant
(ii) Natural Oscillation
A natural oscillation refers to a situation where a spring oscillating without damping

or any of the external forces. It will continue to oscillate as long as no disturbance
occurs.
Figure 2 : Natural oscillation

http://dspace.jorum.ac.uk/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10949/1022/Items/T356_1_section2
0.html
(iii) Undamped Oscillations

Undamped oscillations refers to the motion of a vibrating body and has a constant
amplitude which does not change with time. It will have the same peak and trough
with a constant total energy in the system.
Figure 3 : Undamped oscillation.1 Figure 4 : Undamped oscillation.2
http://mystudyexpress.com/12%20state http://www.efunda.com/formulae/vibra
%20science/12th%20science tions/sdof_free_undamped.cfm
%20phy/4.Oscillation/2.php
m
Σ F=−F k +mg=m ẍ
k
Period , T =2 π
√ k
ẍ + x =0
m
ẍ ( t )=x 0 cos(wt )
k
w 2=
m
k
w=
√ m
6.0 Experimental procedure

Dynamics laboratory , faculty of mechanical engineering , UiTM Shah alam
6.1 Apparatus
Vibration apparatus including :
a. Guide columns
b. Helical spring
c. Guide roller
d. Adjuster
e. Carriage
f. Additional mass
g. Mechanical recorder
h. Base
Adjuster
Guide columns
Helical spring
Carriage
Guide roller
Additional
Mechanical masss
recorder
Base
Figure of Vibration apparatus

6.2 Procedure
1. First, the apparatus is set up. Slotted the graph paper which attached in roll on the
mechanical recorder into the holder.
2. Then, make sure a pen is fixed in the graph pointer slot tightly. (It is recommended to
use high diameter of the pen point).
3. Test the mechanical recorder, to ensure if the graph is being recorded clearly and
properly.
4. Next, make sure tip of pen is attached on carriage properly positioned on the graph
paper. Use the adjuster to adjust the position. Recommended position is from above
of graph.
5. Turn on the mechanical recorder to plot the first straight line representing the initial
reference for spring’s extension.
6. Then, add the additional mass of 2 kg to the carriage, and turn on the mechanical
recorder to plot the other straight line.
7. Repeat the step 6 until the total mass applied onto the carriage is equal to 10 kg.
8. Then, unloaded the additional mass from the carriage.
9. Adjust the carriage so that the tip of the pen is about at the middle of graph paper
again.
10. Pull down the carriage as far it can goes, and release the carriage. Make sure the
carriage simultaneously release when the mechanical recorder is turned on. This is
because to capture the oscillation pattern of spring-mass system on the graph. The
system is let oscillating about 15± complete cycles.
11. Select the best 10 oscillations to be analyzed.
12. Repeat steps 9-11 with additional mass of 2 kg.
13. Repeat step 12, until total additional mass is equal to 10 kg.
7.0 Results
Additional mass (kg) Force exerted by load, F (N) Extension of spring, y (mm)
0 0.00 0
2 19.62 11
4 39.24 22
6 58.86 33
8 78.48 44
10 98.10 55
Table1: Force exerted by load on the system and respectively resulting in the spring’s
extension
Mass of Time taken for 10 oscillations Time taken for 10 Period of spring- Frequency,
system (kg) from graph, x (mm) oscillations, t (s) mass system, T (s) fexperimental (Hz)
1.25 33.0 1.650 0.1650 6.061
3.25 51.0 2.550 0.2550 3.922
5.25 65.0 3.250 0.3250 3.077
7.25 75.0 3.750 0.3750 2.667
9.25 85.0 4.250 0.4250 2.353
11.25 95.0 4.750 0.4750 2.105
Table 2: Analyzed data from the oscillations of the spring-mass system
Frequency, fexperimental (Hz) Frequency, ftheoretical (Hz) Percentage error of natural frequency
(%)
6.061 5.887 2.955
3.922 3.651 7.423
3.077 2.872 7.138
2.667 2.444 9.124
2.353 2.164 8.734
2.105 1.962 7.288
Table 3: Comparison on fexperimental and ftheoretical
SAMPLE CALCULATION
Firstly, find the force by using the formula of F=ma, where
M = mass (kg)
a = acceleration (m.s-2)
Example
Weight=2 kg x 9.81 m.s-2 = 19.62 N
In order to get the time taken for 10 cycles of the system, it can be obtained by the
mechanical recorder rotating with 20 mm/s which then produces a curved graph which is in
x(mm) . Hence,to calculate the time taken for 10 complete cycle , the following formula can
be used
x
t=
20 mm . s−1
For period, T
t
T=
10
Finally, the frequency of spring-mass system, f can be calculated by
1
f=
T
For example, (no load)
33.0
t=
20 mm . s−1
= 1.65 s
1.65
T=
10
= 0.165 s
1
f=
0.165
= 6.061 Hz
Graph of Force(N) vs Extension (mm)

120
100
f(x) = 1.78 x − 0
80
Force (N)
60
40
20
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Extension (mm)
Figure of graph of force , N versus extension , mm
Base on the graph above, the slope which representing the spring constant, k can be obtain
by finding the gradient of the graph. The gradient can be find by drawing a big triangle under
the linear graph.
b
Where , k =
a
98.10
¿
55
= 1.78 N/mm
PERCENTAGE ERROR OF SPRING CONSTANT, K
For the theoretical value of spring constant, ktheoretical=1.71 N/mm.
So, we can calculate the percentage error by using the formula where,
The percentage error of spring constant, k% error
k theoretical −k experimental
k % error = | k theoretical | x 100
¿ |1.71−1.78
1.71 |
x 100
¿|−0.040936| x 100
=4.0936%
From this experiment we also can calculate the ftheoretical for each spring-mass system.
As we know ktheoretical=1.71N/mm=1710 N/m. So, the ftheoretical for each spring-mass system is
calculate by using this formula.
As, for undamped free vibration,
k theoretical
❑n=
√ mass , m
f ❑n
theoretical=¿ ¿
2π
Example
1710
❑n=
√ 1.25
=36.99
f 39.99
theoretical=¿ =5.887 Hz ¿
2π
We also can find the period by using formula
Where,
m
T=2πf , f=
√ k
1.25
Ttheoretical = 2π x
√ 1.71
=5.3720
1.25
Texperimental = 2π x
√ 1.78
=5.265
8.0 Discussions and Conclusions
8.1 Muhammad Arif bin Zakaria
2013301993
Discussion
Based on the free vibration experiment that we have conducted, we have obtained the
experimental value of spring constant, k and natural frequency, f which is the experimental
value of spring we got is 1.78 N/mm and the natural frequency is 36.99.
But based on the experiment, the experimental value for both spring constant, k and natural
frequency, f that we got are different with theoretical value. The standard value for theoretical
spring constant, k is 1710 Nm. That means, the value of spring constant, k that we obtained
are slightly different with our experimental value. So that the percentage error may occur for
both value. Based on the experiment that has been conduct, the percentage error of k is
4.0936%.
This is maybe because of the error occur during the experiment. There is some error occurs in
this experiment such as parallax error during reading the data and random error. The example
of random error occurs such as the position of marker is nor accurate and the spring elasticity
is not in origin position after it has been used. But we may reduce the value of percentage
error that occurs in the experiment if the precaution steps were apply in the experiment. For
example we should check all the apparatus that is used to conduct the experiment is good in
condition. So that the error can be reduce.
8.1 Muhammad Arif bin Zakaria
2013301993
Conclusion
From this free vibration experiment, we can conclude that the experimental value of
spring constant, k and natural frequency, f can be obtained. However there is a different in
the experimental value for both spring constant, k and natural frequency, f compare to the
theoretical value. As this happen, we also may conclude that the percentage error occur for
both value. The percentage error that occurs is due to some error occurs during the
experiment was conducted. This error can be reduces if the precaution steps were taken.
Based on this experiment we also can conclude that the result of this experiment is affected
because of parallax error and random error occur during experiment. The precaution steps
that can be done to reduce parallax error and random error is by make sure the apparatus use
in experiment is good in condition. Thus the accurate data can be produced. Besides, student
need to repeat the same experiment at least two times and take the average value of data to
get more accurate data. For parallax error, it can be avoided if student eye are perpendicular
with the machine or graph and while release the load carriage students need to make sure the
distance and force use are equal or uniform for each load that used in this experiment.
8.2 Muhammad Syahmi Dzulkafly
2013554217
Discussion
Base on the result, the spring constant is 1.80 N/mm experimentally while the spring
constant for theoretical value is 1.78 N/mm. There is just slightly difference between both
values. This may due to some errors which have occurred during the experiment. First of all,
we may relate the aging of the material of the spring. The spring may not as elastic as stated
by theoretical. Where, theoretical may represent the early state of spring where it is still new
and in good condition and more elastic. Otherwise, the spring is not actually homogenous
during the deformation. After all, ktheoretical is calculated based on the parameters where the
spring is assumed to be homogenous during deformation as well the cross-section is uniform
throughout the length of spring. It also might occur from the unconsistency of the pulling
force exerted to the spring. It will affect the amplitude of the oscillation if the force are not
consistence. Parallax error also can occur during this experiment. It happen during measuring
the amplitude of the oscillation.
there are also several precautions that can be taken.firstly, by using more sharper
marker,it can increased the accuracy of the oscillation and it can be more easier during
measuring the amplitude. Changing the spring to the new one is also a precaution that can
prevent errors from occurs.
For the natural frequency, all the percentages errors for every mass are not more than
10%. Thats mean there are no major different between the experimental values and the
theoretical values.
8.2 Muhammad Syahmi Dzulkafly
2013554217
Conclusion
As a conclusion, we can say that both spring constant and natural frequency can be
determine successfully with slightly difference between them. Therefore this experiment was
success to reach the objective.
8.3 Mujahidah Binti Zaira Azlan
2013338805
Discussion
From the experiment that we have conducted , the value of spring constant ,k and value of
natural frequency , f was determined . From the result we found that there is slight differences
of value between theoretical value and experimental value .
To determine the value of spring constant , k it was obtained from the slope of the graph
force , N versus extension , mm which is automatically stated when the graph was plotted
using Microsoft excel . From the slope we found that the value for spring constant ,
k_experimental is 1.78 N/mm , where k_theoritical is 1.71 N/mm . The percentage error
between theoretical and experimental value is 4.093% . The graph obtain was directly
proportional to each other .
The natural frequency , f was calculated by using mass 1.25kg for both experimental and
theoretical . The value obtain for f_experimental is 6.061Hz while f_theoritical is 5.887Hz .
The percentage error is 2.95% . There is differences in value because of there is an error
when conducting this experiment .
One of the error is parallax error , parallax error occurred during reading the data . The
position of the eye is not perpendicular to the graph or amplitude . To overcome this error ,
we must make sure that our eye position is in a perpendicular to the reading .
Next , is the random error , the force during pulling the guide column is not equal / constant
while running the experiment . It will definitely give effect to the oscillations . Other error is
when placing the marker , the marker is not fixed to the mechanical recorder . This is due to
there is no exact size of marker that is fitted with the holder . Maybe they should provide the
exact size of marker so that it does not move when running the experiment .
Other than that , the mechanical recorder press button and the carriage weight was not release
at the same time . This error include in the human error / random error . On the other hand ,
the elasticity of the spring condition is not in it’s original position , since it has been used
many times . This also can contribute to the effect of the data obtained .
8.3 Mujahidah Binti Zaira Azlan
2013338805
Conclusion
As a conclusion , the objective of the experiment has achieved . The spring constant , k and
natural frequency , f have been determined which is k = 1.78 N/mm and f = 6.061Hz .
Although it have slight differences from the theory because of existing some error when
conducting the experiment . The relationship between force and extension also have been
determined and the graph shows that it is directly proportional to each other .
8.4 Pricilla James
2013387099
Discussion
From the experiment conducted on this topic of free vibration, we obtained the result and has
plotted a graph of force versus the spring extensions. As can be seen, the line plotted is
almost a perfect force directly proportional to the spring extensions. We also obtained the k-
value from the gradient of the graph which is equal to 1.78 N/mm. Comparing the spring
constant, k theoretical value which is 1.71N/mm with data obtained from the experiment, we
achieved a total 4.09% of percentage error. This may due to the spring condition which have
a slight changes from its original spring constant as it has been use repeatedly over years.
During the second part of the experiment, some error might also have occurred which affect
our final results obtained. One of errors are the pulling force of the load. This proves that
using a machine to create force is better instead by manually generated human force as we
hardly know and maintaining the force we used for the first pull until the last load addition
was added.
Secondly, we also encountered problem in keeping the marker in position during the
vibration which then affected the wave formed on the graph paper attached. Some more, due
to the pen used as a marker was not suitable for this experiment, we hardly able see our peak
and trough located. Hence, a proper marker pen with a better grip should be use to get a better
wave-line drawn during the vibration because it will affect in calculation of getting its natural
frequency.
Lastly, we also found that there are a slight time difference of pressing the mechanical
recorder button with the moment the carriage was released from rest. Hence the oscillation
amplitude obtained was less accurate because there is a damper which are used as vibration
absorption.
8.4 Pricilla James
2013387099
Conclusion
As a conclusion for this experiment, we manage to determine the spring constant ,k and also
the natural frequency, f by using the vibration apparatus in the lab. Through this experiment,
we know that the spring extend more with the more load applied. Other than that, with the
damper attached on the apparatus, it causes the vibration to reduce slowly which then causes
the amplitude went down to a total zero amplitude as the function of damper is to absorb the
vibration.

9.0 Abstract
In this free vibration experiment, we will need to determine the spring constant, k and also
the natural frequency, f. For this experiment, we do not need to setup the apparatus as it is
made to perform this experiment so all we have to do is just make sure there are paper rolling
and a marker pen to draw the vibration wave line. During the first part of the experiment, we
just need to add 2-kg load on the carriage until 10-kg of load achieved. From the result
obtained, a ‘downward-staircase’ shape was formed. Accumulating the data, a graph of load
versus the spring extensions was drawn and a linear graph was obtained and an experimental
value of spring constant obtained are 1.78N/mm. This proves the relationship between the
load and the spring extensions are dependent. The more load added, the longer its extension.
For the second part, we will need to find the natural frequency of spring. Hence, an external
force (pulling) was used to create vibration. Due to uneven force used in each load addition, it
has caused an unavoidable errors in getting the results. Upon calculation, we obtained
9.124% as the highest percentage error by comparing with its theoretical value.
In all, we manage to get the experimental result for the spring constant and its natural
frequency even though there are a slight difference of result obtained by comparing with the
theoretical value
10.0 Reference
1. http://www.freestudy.co.uk/dynamics/free%20vibrations.pdf
2. http://physicsnet.co.uk/a-level-physics-as-a2/further-mechanics/forced-vibrations-
resonance/
3. http://www.brown.edu/Departments/Engineering/Courses/En4/Notes/vibrations_free_und
amped/vibrations_free_undamped.htm

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MEC 424 – APPLIED MECHANICS LAB 1

2.0 List of Tables

2.2 Table of natural frequency ……………………..…..…. Separate sheet

2.3 Table1: Force exerted by load on the system and

respectively resulting in the spring’s extension ……………….. page 8

2.4 Table 2: Analyzed data from the oscillations of the

spring-mass system ……………………………………………… page 8

2.5 Table 3: Comparison on fexperimental and ftheoretical …….. page 8

3.0 List of Figures

3.2 Figure of natural oscillation ……………………………………. page 3

3.3 Figure of undamped oscillation.1 ……………………………… page 4

3.4 Figure of undamped oscillation.2 ……………………………… page 4

3.5 Figure of vibration apparatus ………………………………….. page 6

3.6 Figure of graph of force , N versus extension , mm ……….….. page 10

i. Pendulum swinging back and forth

(i) Spring Constant, k

k = spring constant [N/m]

Figure 1 : Spring constant

(ii) Natural Oscillation

A natural oscillation refers to a situation where a spring oscillating without damping

Figure 2 : Natural oscillation

(iii) Undamped Oscillations

Figure 3 : Undamped oscillation.1 Figure 4 : Undamped oscillation.2

6.0 Experimental procedure

Vibration apparatus including :

Figure of Vibration apparatus

Firstly, find the force by using the formula of F=ma, where

Weight=2 kg x 9.81 m.s-2 = 19.62 N

Finally, the frequency of spring-mass system, f can be calculated by

For example, (no load)

Graph of Force(N) vs Extension (mm)

Figure of graph of force , N versus extension , mm

PERCENTAGE ERROR OF SPRING CONSTANT, K

For the theoretical value of spring constant, ktheoretical=1.71 N/mm.

The percentage error of spring constant, k% error

As, for undamped free vibration,

We also can find the period by using formula

8.0 Discussions and Conclusions

8.1 Muhammad Arif bin Zakaria

8.1 Muhammad Arif bin Zakaria

8.2 Muhammad Syahmi Dzulkafly

8.2 Muhammad Syahmi Dzulkafly

8.3 Mujahidah Binti Zaira Azlan

8.3 Mujahidah Binti Zaira Azlan

8.4 Pricilla James

8.4 Pricilla James

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