TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

FACULTY
OF
BUILT ENVIRONMENT

23
22 /20____
ACADEMIC YEAR 20__
BTBE1022/BTAR2012/BTBE1082
Structural Studies
Laboratory Report
2
Experiment No. ___
1
Group No. ___

Experiment No 1: Three Hinge Arch

Experiment No 2: Suspension Bridge

Experiment No 3: Portal Frame

No. Name of Student Registration No. Marks

1 PHUA KIT YI 21WVR03159

2 TANG HAO JEN 21WVR03172

3 WONG TIAM SOON 21WVR03181

4 KELVIN OOI 21WVR03156

5 LOUIS KER WEI ZHUN 21WVR03147

22/3/2023
Date of Laboratory Experiment:………………………....
8/3/2023
Date of Laboratory Report Submission:…………………
 Tunku Abdul Rahman University College
BTBE1022/BTAR2012/BTBE1082 – Structural Studies
Assessment Form

Name of Experiment SUSPENSION BRIDGE EXPERIMENT NO.2

:_____________________________________________________________

Marking Criteria
Assessment Criteria Marks Allocated Marks
A. Group Work 0 1 2 3
i. Experiment Absent. Work is of Work is of Work is of /3
poor quality acceptable good quality,
and is below quality and thorough and
expectations. meets exceeds
expectations. expectations.
ii. Report Did not Poor layout of Basic layout Good layout /3
submit report. structured of structured of structured
report and report and report and
referencing referencing referencing
system. system. system.
B. Individual Work 0 1 2-3 4
i. Report Did not Poor layout of Basic layout Good layout /4
submit report. structured of structured of structured
report and report and report and
referencing referencing referencing
system. system. system.
Total /10

(For assessor’s use only)

Laboratory Experiment and Report

Assessment
No. Student’s Name Student’s Reg. No. Total Marks
Group Individual
1 PHUA KIT YI 21WVR03159 /6 /4 / 10

2 TANG HAO JEN 21WVR03172 /6 /4 / 10

3 WONG TIAM SOON 21WVR03181 /6 /4 / 10

4 KELVIN OOI 21WVR03156 /6 /4 / 10

5 LOUIS KER WEI ZHUN 21WVR03147 /6 /4 / 10

Note :
1. Experiment and report to be done in group. Individual assessment will be carried out at
discretion of lecturer.
2. Relevant information is to be filled up by the students in this mark sheet and submitted to lab
lecturer for assessment.
 FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT

STUDENT’S DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY

Submission: Coursework / Final e-Assessment

Course Code: BTAR 2012 STRUCTURAL STUDIES

Course Title: Mechanical and Electrical Services

“The Coursework / Final e-Assessment submitted herewith is a result of my own

research / work. All information that has been obtained from other sources has been
fully acknowledged.

I understand that cheating / plagiarism constitutes a breach of University College

rules and regulations and would be subjected to disciplinary actions”.

Signature: Kit

Name of Student: Phua Kit Yi

Student ID: 21WVR03159

Date: 3rd March 2023

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

 FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT

STUDENT’S DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY

Submission: Coursework / Final e-Assessment

Course Code: BTAR 2012 STRUCTURAL STUDIES

Course Title: Mechanical and Electrical Services

“The Coursework / Final e-Assessment submitted herewith is a result of my own

research / work. All information that has been obtained from other sources has been
fully acknowledged.

I understand that cheating / plagiarism constitutes a breach of University College

rules and regulations and would be subjected to disciplinary actions”.

Signature: Ooi

Name of Student: Kelvin Ooi

Student ID: 21WVR03156

Date: 3rd March 2023

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

 FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT

STUDENT’S DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY

Submission: Coursework / Final e-Assessment

Course Code: BTAR 2012 STRUCTURAL STUDIES

Course Title: Mechanical and Electrical Services

“The Coursework / Final e-Assessment submitted herewith is a result of my own

research / work. All information that has been obtained from other sources has been
fully acknowledged.

I understand that cheating / plagiarism constitutes a breach of University College

rules and regulations and would be subjected to disciplinary actions”.

Signature: Louis

Name of Student: Louis Ker Wei Zhun

Student ID: 21WVR03147

Date: 3rd March 2023

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

 FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT

STUDENT’S DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY

Submission: Coursework / Final e-Assessment

Course Code: BTAR 2012 STRUCTURAL STUDIES

Course Title: Mechanical and Electrical Services

“The Coursework / Final e-Assessment submitted herewith is a result of my own

research / work. All information that has been obtained from other sources has been
fully acknowledged.

I understand that cheating / plagiarism constitutes a breach of University College

rules and regulations and would be subjected to disciplinary actions”.

Signature: Jen

Name of Student: Tang Hao Jen

Student ID: 21WVR03172

Date: 3rd March 2023

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

 FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT

STUDENT’S DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY

Submission: Coursework / Final e-Assessment

Course Code: BTAR 2012 STRUCTURAL STUDIES

Course Title: Mechanical and Electrical Services

“The Coursework / Final e-Assessment submitted herewith is a result of my own

research / work. All information that has been obtained from other sources has been
fully acknowledged.

I understand that cheating / plagiarism constitutes a breach of University College

rules and regulations and would be subjected to disciplinary actions”.

Signature: Soon

Name of Student: Wong Tiam Soon

Student ID: 21WVR03181

Date: 3rd March 2023

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

 TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN
UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE FACULTY OF
BUILT ENVIRONMENT

BTBE1022/BTAR2012/BTBE1082
STRUCTURAL STUDIES

SUSPENSION BRIDGE
(Experiment No. 2)
TABLE OF CONTENT
1.0 SUSPENSION BRIDGE 1

2.0 OBJECTIVE (S) OF THE EXPERIMENT 1

3.0 SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM/IMAGES OF THE MAIN EQUIPMENT USED 1

4.0 PROCEDURE 3

5.0 DATA COLLECTION 4

6.0 INDIVIDUALS BACKGROUND 5

6.1 PHUA KIT YI (21WVR03159) 5
6.1.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 5
6.1.2 DISCUSSION 7
6.1.3 CONCLUSION 9
6.1.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 10
6.2 TANG HAO JEN (21WVR03172) 11
6.2.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 11
6.2.2 DISCUSSION 13
6.2.3 CONCLUSION 16
6.2.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 16
6.3 KELVIN OOI (21WVR03156) 17
6.3.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 17
6.3.2 DISCUSSION 19
6.3.3 CONCLUSION 21
6.3.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 22
6.4 LOUIS KER WEI ZHUN (21WVR3147) 23
6.4.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 23
6.4.2 DISCUSSION 25
6.4.3 CONCLUSION 28
6.4.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 28
6.5 WONG TIAM SOON (21WVR03181) 29
6.5.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 29
6.5.2 DISCUSSION 31
6.5.3 CONCLUSION 33
6.5.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 33
1.0 SUSPENSION BRIDGE

2.0 OBJECTIVE (S) OF THE EXPERIMENT

To determine the maximum tension in the cable of a suspension bridge.

3.0 SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM/IMAGES OF THE MAIN EQUIPMENT USED.

Max tension in the cable occurs at the support

Tmax = W * L *(√(16d² + L²)) / (8 *d)

Where:
W is the magnitude of the uniformly distributed load in N/m
L is the span in metre
d is the dip in metre

1
Apparatus
1. Support frame

Figure 3.0.0.1 shows the support frame

2. Suspension bridge assembly.

Figure 3.0.0.2 shows the suspension bridge assembly

3. A set of weights.

Figure 3.0.0.3 shows a set of weights.

2
4.0 PROCEDURE
1. Check the profile for the bridge to be tested and where necessary set the cable
position as detailed in the Appendix.
2. The two support piers were removed so that the bridge was not in contact with the bridge
deck.
3. The digital display unit was switched on.

Figure 4.0.0.1 shows the digital display

4. The cable stopper was checked to ensure that there is no gap between the stopper
and the horizontal member. To avoid it from sliding during the loading process, the screw on
the stopper is tightened.
5. The load cells to the digital display is connected, each load cell occupying 1 channel
of the display.
6. The initial reading of each load cell is recorded.
7. Wait until the digital display reading remains almost constant when a uniformly distributed
load is placed on the bridge deck.

Figure 4.0.0.2 shows the load being placed on the suspension bridge

8. The magnitude of the uniformly distributed load and the reading of each
load cell was recorded
9. The magnitude of the uniformly distributed load was increased, and step 7 to 9 were repeated.
10. Preferably repeat the above experiment to obtain the average readings of the
measured values.

3
5.0 DATA COLLECTION
Span of bridge = 1000mm
Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 5.1 - Test 1

UDL, w Cable Tension at Support (N), Theoretical

(N/m) Left Pulley Right Pulley
10.60 8.86 8.86
11.00 9.20 9.20
11.60 9.70 9.70

Tmax = W * L *(√(16d2 + L2)) / (8 *d)

UDL, w (N/m) Left Pulley & Right Pulley
10.6 Tmax
= 10.6* 1*(√(16*0.1865² + 1²)) / (8*0.1865)
=8.86
11.0 Tmax
= 11* 1*(√(16*0.1865² + 1²)) / (8*0.1865)
= 9.20
11.6 Tmax
= 11.6* 1*(√(16*0.1865² + 1²)) / (8*0.1865)
=9.70

4
6.0 INDIVIDUAL BACKGROUND
6.1 PHUA KIT YI (21WVR03159)
6.1.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Suspension bridge is a kind of bridge where the deck or roadway is suspended from
cables that are anchored at both ends of the bridge. The cables are supported by tall towers or
pylons, and the weight of the deck is transferred to the cables and then to the towers.
Suspension bridges are often used to span long distances, where other types of bridges would be
impractical.

Figure 6.1.1.1 shows Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge

(SOURCE: ROAD TRAFFIC TECHNOLOGY)
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is a suspension bridge in Japan that links the city of Kobe of
Honshu to Iwaya on Awaji Island. The bridge was completed in the year 1998, it is a part of the
Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway and it is considered to be one of the engineering marvels of the
world.

The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge has a length of 3911 meters and a span of 1991 meters.
Which are both designed to be the longest span of any suspension bridge in the world at its
completion time. During the construction of the bridge, several safety measures were taken into
consideration to prevent unfortunate accidents from happening. As an example, movement
sensoring systems were install in the bridge to detect any vibration or movement, and if any
abnormalities are detected, the sensors will trigger an alarm that’ll close the bridge that’ll block
the traffic from entering. The bridge is also designed to withstand harsh weathering that are
common in this specfic area, some of which includes typhoons and earthquakes.

The construction of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge was a massive engineering feature, the
bridge’s main cables are made of over 300,000 kilometers of steel wire, and the total weight of
the cables are more than 40,000 tons. The towers that support the main cables are 282 meters
tall, by adding it up together it is taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

5
 Figure 6.1.1.2 shows Brooklyn Bridge

The iconic Brooklyn Bridge located in New York City is a bridge that connects Lower
Manhattan and Brooklyn Heights. This suspension bridge was completed in the year 1883, at
the time it was known as the longest suspension bridge in the world. Yet another remarkable
feat for the architecture and engineering field.

The construction of the bridge started in the year 1869, the depth of the East River had
required the construction of large caissons that could be sunk into the riverbed and filled with
compressed air to allow workers to excavate the riverbed in order to lay the foundations for the
bridge’s towers. Another challenge was the strength and stability of the bridge’s cables, which
had to support the weight of the bridge deck and withstand strong winds and other
environmental forces. Hence the cables were twisted in a specific pattern that will create a
strong and flexible cable that’ll support the weight of the deck.

Often times people can’t differentiate the difference between suspension bridges and
cable-stayed bridges. The main difference is the method of how the cables are attached to the
towers. In a suspension bridge, the cables are suspended from tall towers, and the roadway is
suspended from these cables. In contrast, for a cable-stayed bridge, the cables are attached
directly to the towers, and the deck is supported by a series of shorter cables that extend from
the main cables. The difference in cable tying method affects the overall design, cost and
construction of the two types of bridges.

6
6.1.2 DISCUSSION
Span of bridge = 1000 mm
Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 6.1.2.1 - Experimental Result Table

UDL, w Cable Tension At Support (N)
(N/m) Left Pulley Right Pulley
Experimental Theoretical Experimental Theoretical
Initial 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
10.60 8.10 8.86 9.40 8.86
11.00 8.45 9.20 9.65 9.20
11.60 9.00 9.70 10.15 9.70

Span of bridge = 1000 mm

Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 6.1.2.2. - Average Experimental Result comparing to Theoretical

UDL, w Cable Tension At support (N)
(N/m) Experimental Theoretical
Initial 0.00 0.00
10.60 8.75 8.86
11.00 9.05 9.20
11.60 9.58 9.70

1. Using the data in Table 2, plot the graph of cable tension at the support against load for
the experimental and theoretical case. (Refer to the graph below)

2. Draw the best-fit curve to pass through the plotted points (Refer to the graph below)

7
Figure 6.1.2.1 graph of UDL, w, (N/m) against Cable Tension at Support (N)

8
3. Calculate the percentage error between theoretical and experimental results.
(Experimental Value) - (Theoretical Value) / Theoretical Value x 100%= Percentage Error
Experimental Value = 9.8 / 11.6
= 0.845%

Theoretical Value = 9.7 / 11.6

= 0.836%

Error = (0.845) - (0.836) / 0.836 x 100%

= 1.08%

6.1.3 CONCLUSION

1. From the results above state the relationship between the cable tension at the support and
the applied load.
 Based on the results, there is a directly proportional relationship between the
applied load and cable tension at the support. Therefore, the cable tension at the
support will increase as the applied load increases.

2. State the probable source of error for this experiment.

 The main probable source of error would be the faulty equipment at use.
Inaccurate reading during the weighing of the steel rod could heavily influence
the final reading.
 Not only that, another probable cause would be human error. The person
incharge of executing the experiment might place the steel rods in a slightly
unbalanced position which would cause a statistical error.
 The final probable source of error would be the room condition. In some cases,
the reading might be affected by the windy situation in the room.

9
6.1.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES

Verdict media limited (2022) Verdict Traffic. Available at: https://www.roadtraffic-

technology.com/projects/akashi-kaikyo-bridge-strait-
japan/#:~:text=Akashi%20Kaikyo%20is%20a%203.9,(Awaji%20Island)%20in
%20Japan (Accessed: March 3, 2023).

A. Pipinato and Abstract, Japan's Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, (2015) Case study: The
akashi-kaikyo bridge, Innovative Bridge Design Handbook. Available at:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128000588000268 (Accessed:
March 3, 2023).

Tablot, J. (2011) The Brooklyn Bridge. AISC. Available at:

https://www.aisc.org/globalassets/modern-
steel/archives/2011/06/2011v06_brooklyn_bridge.pdf (Accessed: March 3,
2023).

10
6.2 TANG HAO JEN (21WVR03172)
6.2.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Suspension bridges are one of the most recognizable types of bridges, known for their
long cables and tall towers. They are often used to span large bodies of water, such as
bays or rivers, and are considered to be one of the strongest and most stable types of
bridges.

Figure 6.2.1.1 Shows an example of a suspension bridge in Turkey, The Çanakkale

Bridge.

Design and Construction:

Suspension bridges are designed with two tall towers at each end, which are anchored
deep into the ground with large concrete foundations. The towers are connected by a
series of cables, which are strung across the towers and down to the bridge deck. The
cables are made up of thousands of individual wires, and are designed to carry the
weight of the bridge and any vehicles or pedestrians that use it (Lin & Yoda, 2017).
The bridge deck itself is supported by vertical suspender cables, which hang down
from the main cables and attach to the deck at regular intervals. The deck is typically
made of steel or concrete, and is designed to be flexible and able to move with the
wind and the weight of traffic.

Figure 6.2.1.2 A diagram of the elements of a suspension bridge (Study.com, 2022).

11
History:
Suspension bridges have been around for centuries, but it wasn't until the early 19th
century that the modern suspension bridge was developed. The first large-scale
suspension bridge was built in 1826 in England, and was designed by engineer
Thomas Telford. However, it was the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in New
York City in the late 19th century that really popularized the suspension bridge design.

Figure 6.2.1.3 The picture of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City (Mittelstadt,
2023).

Advantages:
One of the biggest advantages of suspension bridges is their ability to span large
distances without the need for support pillars in the water. This allows ships and other
vessels to pass underneath without obstruction. Suspension bridges are also able to
withstand high winds and earthquakes, making them a popular choice in areas prone
to natural disasters (Miller, 2015).

Disadvantages:
Despite their strength and stability, suspension bridges do have some disadvantages.
They are very expensive to build, and require regular maintenance to ensure that the
cables and other components remain in good condition. Additionally, the height of the
towers and the length of the cables can make them vulnerable to lightning strikes.

Conclusion:
Overall, suspension bridges are a remarkable feat of engineering that have helped
connect people and places around the world. While they may not be the most practical
choice for every situation, their strength, stability, and ability to span great distances
make them an important part of our infrastructure.

12
6.2.2 DISCUSSION
Span of bridge = 1000mm
Dip =186.5mm

Table 6.2.2.1 – Average Result

Cable Tension At Support (N)

UDL, w
Left Pulley Right Pulley
(N/m)

Experimental Theoretical Experimental Theoretical

Initial 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

10.6 8.1 8.86 9.4 8.86

11.0 8.5 9.20 9.7 9.20

11.6 8.95 9.70 10.1 9.70

Span of bridge =1000mm

Dip =186.5mm

Table 6.2.2.2 – Average Experimental Result Comparing Theoretical

UDL, w Cable Tension At Support (N)
(N/m)
Experimental Theoretical

Initial 0.00 0.00

10.6 8.75 8.86

11.0 9.1 9.20

11.6 9.52 9.70

1. Using the data in Table 2, plot the graph of cable tension at the support against load
for the experimental and theoretical case. (Refer to the graph below)
2. Draw the best-fit curve to pass through the plotted points (Refer to the graph below)

13
Figure 6.2.2.3 Graph of UDL Against Cable Tension Support.

14
3. Calculate the percentage error between theoretical and experimental results.
(Experimental Value) – (Theoretical Value) / Theoretical Value x 100% = Percentage
Error
Experimental Value = 9.8 / 11.6
=0.845%

Theoretical Value = 9.7 / 11.6

= 0.836%

Error = (0.845)-(0.836) / 0.836 x 100%

= 1.077%

15
6.2.3.CONCLUSION
1. From the results above, state the relationship between the cable tension at the
support and the applied load.
 According to the results, the applied load and cable tension at the
support are directly proportional. Hence, the cable tension at the
support will increase as the applied load increases.

2. State the probable source of error for this experiment.

 One of the main probable cause would be the faulty equipment at use.
The reading might not be accurate during the weighing of the steel rod
and it could affect the final reading.
 Furthermore, the next probable cause would be human error. The
person who is in charge of putting in the steel rods might position the
steels rods slightly unbalanced which would cause a statistical error.
 The final probable source of error would be the room condition. In
some cases, the reading might be affected by the windy situation in the
room.

6.2.4. REFERENCES

References
Lin, W. & Yoda, T., 2017. Suspension Bridges. [Online]
Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/suspension-
bridges#:~:text=A%20suspension%20bridge%20is%20a,each%20end%20of%20the%20bridg
e.
[Accessed 6 March 2023].
Miller, B., 2015. 9 Main Pros And Cons Of Suspension Bridges. [Online]
Available at: https://greengarageblog.org/9-main-pros-and-cons-of-suspension-bridges
[Accessed 6 March 2023].
Mittelstadt, B., 2023. The Untold History of NYC’s Brooklyn Bridge Plus How to See It.
[Online]
Available at: https://www.exp1.com/blog/untold-nyc-history-splendid-brooklyn-bridge-park/
[Accessed 6 March 2023].
Study.com, 2022. Suspension Bridge Overview & Parts | What is a Suspension Bridge?.
[Online]
Available at: https://study.com/academy/lesson/suspension-bridge-overview-parts.html
[Accessed 5 March 2023].

16
INDIVIDUALS BACKGROUND
OOI KELVIN (21WVR03156)
BACKGROUND INFORMATION

A suspension bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by cables suspended from towers or
tall structures, with the roadway or deck hanging from the cables. The suspension cables are
anchored at both ends of the bridge and pass over the top of the towers, which support the
weight of the bridge and transfer it to the ground.

The earliest known suspension bridges were built in China more than a thousand
years ago, but the modern suspension bridge was first developed in the early 19th
century by engineers such as Marc Seguin and Thomas Telford. The first major
suspension bridge was the Menai Suspension Bridge, completed in 1826, which
spans the Menai Strait between the island of Anglesey and mainland Wales.

Figure 6.1.1.1 shows the Menai suspension bridge

Suspension bridges are ideal for spanning long distances, such as across a river or a wide valley.
They are also well-suited to locations where there are deep foundations or other obstacles that
make it difficult to build a bridge using traditional methods.

The key components of a suspension bridge include the towers, the cables, the deck or roadway,
and the anchorage points where the cables are fixed to the ground. The towers are typically
constructed from steel or reinforced concrete and are designed to support the weight of the
bridge and resist the forces of wind, seismic activity, and other environmental factors.

The cables are made from high-strength steel wires that are bundled together and wrapped in
protective coatings to prevent corrosion. The main cables are anchored to the ground at either
end of the bridge and pass over the top of the towers, where they are secured to anchorages that
are buried deep in the ground.

The deck or roadway of a suspension bridge is typically made from concrete or steel and is
suspended from the main cables using smaller cables called suspenders or hangers. These cables

17
are attached to the main cables at regular intervals and support the weight of the deck, as well as
any traffic or pedestrians crossing the bridge.

Overall, suspension bridges are one of the most elegant and efficient types of bridges, and they
have been used to span some of the world's most famous rivers and gorges, such as the Golden
Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in Japan.

Figure 6.1.1.2 shows a basic diagram of the Bridge

18
6.0.1 DISCUSSION

Span of bridge = 1000 mm

Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 6.1.2.1 - Average Result

Cable Tension At support (N)
UDL, w
Left Pulley Right Pulley
(N/m)
Experimental Theoretical Experimental Theoretical

Initial 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

10.6 8.1 8.86 9.4 8.86

11.0 8.45 9.20 9.7 9.20

11.6 9.0 9.70 10.1 9.70

Span of bridge = 1000 mm

Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 6.1.2.2 - Average Experimental Result comparing Theoretical

UDL, w Cable Tension At support (N)

(N/m) Experimental Theoretical

Initial 0.00 0.00

10.6 8.75 8.86

11.0 9.07 9.20

11.6 9.55 9.70

1. Using the data in Table 2, plot the graph of cable tension at the support against load for
the experimental and theoretical case. (Refer to the graph below)
2. Draw the best-fit curve to pass through the plotted points (Refer to the graph below)

19
6.0.1.1 graph of UDL, w, (N/m) against Cable Tension at Support (N)

20
3. Calculate the percentage error between theoretical and experimental results.

(Experimental Value) - (Theoretical Value) / Theoretical Value x 100%= Percentage Error

Experimental Value = 10 / 11.6

= 0.862%

Theoretical Value = 9.7 / 11.6

= 0.836%

Error = (0.862) - (0.836) / 0.836 x 100%

= 3.11%

6.0.2 CONCLUSION

1. From the results above state the relationship between the cable tension at the support and
the applied load.
- As the applied load increases, the tension in the cable at the support also increases
proportionally. Hence, the cable tension at the support is directly proportional to the
applied load.

2. State the probable source of error for this experiment.

- The experiment could be subject to errors caused by faulty equipment, such as a loose steel rod
that could disconnect from the suspension wires, resulting in an inaccurate reading. Another
possible source of error could be inconsistent load placement, where loads are placed unevenly
or not centralized, leading to different readings from the left and right. Lastly, external factors
such as room conditions, wind, and movement of the apparatus could also introduce errors in the
experiment.

21
 6.0.3 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES

Encyclopædia Britannica. "Suspension Bridge." Accessed March 3, 2023.

https://www.britannica.com/technology/suspension-bridge.

Live Science. "Suspension Bridges: How They Work." Accessed March 3, 2023.
https://www.livescience.com/44592-suspension-bridges.html.

Popular Mechanics. "The Anatomy of a Suspension Bridge." Accessed March 3, 2023.

https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/infrastructure/a26302009/suspension-bridge-
anatomy/.

Institution of Civil Engineers. "Menai Suspension Bridge." Accessed March 3, 2023.

https://www.ice.org.uk/about-ice/what-we-do/insight-ice-archive/menai-suspension-bridge.

Engineering News-Record. "World's Longest Suspension Bridges." Accessed March 3, 2023.

https://www.enr.com/articles/41334-worlds-longest-suspension-bridges

22
6.4 LOUIS KER WEI ZHUN (21WVR03147)
6.4.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A suspension bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by cables suspended
from tall towers or pylons. The bridge deck, which is the roadway or walkway, hangs
from these cables, giving the appearance of a floating bridge.
Suspension bridges have been in use for centuries, with early versions made from
rope and bamboo used by ancient civilizations in Asia. However, the modern
suspension bridge as we know it today was first developed in the early 19th century
by the British engineer Thomas Telford and later improved upon by the American
engineer John Roebling.
The construction of a suspension bridge requires a significant amount of
engineering expertise and careful planning. The cables that support the bridge must be
able to withstand the weight of the deck and the traffic it carries, as well as the forces
of wind and weather. The towers or pylons that hold up the cables must also be strong
enough to withstand the same forces.
Suspension bridges have become iconic structures around the world, with
notable examples including the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Akashi
Kaikyo Bridge in Japan, and the Humber Bridge in the United Kingdom. They are
often used to span long distances, such as across rivers or gorges, where other types of
bridges would be impractical or impossible to construct.
There are several types of suspension bridges, each with unique characteristics
and design considerations. One of the most common one is the simple suspension
bridge. This is the simplest form of a suspension bridge, consisting of a deck that is
suspended from cables that are anchored at either end. The cables are usually
anchored to the ground or to large concrete blocks. Simple suspension bridges are
often used for pedestrian or light vehicular traffic.

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Figure 6.4.1.1 Anatomy of a Simple Suspension Bridge

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 6.4.2 DISCUSSION
Span of bridge = 1000 mm
Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 6.4.2.1 - Average Result

Cable Tension At support (N)
UDL, w
Left Pulley Right Pulley
(N/m)
Experimental Theoretical Experimental Theoretical

Initial 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

10.6 8.15 8.86 9.3 8.86

11.0 8.40 9.20 9.6 9.20

11.6 9.10 9.70 10.2 9.70

Span of bridge = 1000 mm

Dip = 186.5 mm

Table 6.4.2.2 - Average Experimental Result comparing Theoretical

UDL, w Cable Tension At support (N)

(N/m) Experimental Theoretical

Initial 0.00 0.00

10.6 8.70 8.86

11.0 9.10 9.20

11.6 9.50 9.70

1. Using the data in Table 2, plot the graph of cable tension at the support against load
for the experimental and theoretical case. (Refer to the graph below)
2. Draw the best-fit curve to pass through the plotted points (Refer to the graph below)

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Figure 6.4.2.3 Graph of Cable Tension Support against UDL (N)

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 Calculate the percentage error between theoretical and experimental results.

(Experimental Value) - (Theoretical Value) / Theoretical Value x 100%=

Percentage Error

Experimental Value =
9.50/11.6
= 0.8189%

Theoretical Value = 9.7/11.6

= 0.8362%

Error = (0.8189-0.8362)/0.8362 x 100

= 2.0688%

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6.4.3. Conclusion
1. From the findings of this experiment, the relationship between the cable
tension of the support and the applied load is as follows:

The greater the figure of the applied load, the greater the cable tension of the support.
This tension also increases proportionally based on the load. Thus, it can be
said that the cable tension at the support is directly proportional to the applied
load

2. State the probable source of error for this experiment.

The errors of this experiment could be caused by the inherent inaccuracy of the
equipment due to wear and tear and aging. To obtain a more theoretically
accurate result, the equipment must be in perfect condition or in the condition
that the theory assumes it to be. Furthermore, inconsistent load placement
might shift the focus of mass, causing the reading to deviate slightly from the
readings theoretically expected.
6.4.4. References
Engineering Society. (2021). Suspension Bridge. Retrieved March 7, 2023, from
https://www.engineeringsociety.com/suspension-bridge
Engineering Society. (2021). Types of Suspension Bridges. Retrieved March 7, 2023,
from https://www.engineeringsociety.com/ types-of-suspension-bridges

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6.5 WONG TIAM SOON (21WVR03181)
6.5.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A suspension bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by cables that are
suspended from tall towers or piers. The weight of the bridge and the traffic it carries
is transferred to the cables, which are in turn anchored to the ground at either end of
the bridge. The cables are made up of many strands of steel wire that are twisted
together to form a strong and flexible rope. The main span of a suspension bridge is
suspended from the cables, and typically hangs down in a curve known as a catenary.
The bridge deck, which carries the road or pedestrian walkway, is hung from the main
span by vertical suspenders, which are also made of steel cables. Suspension bridges
are often used to span long distances, such as across large rivers or valleys.
(Britannica, 2021).

Figure 6.5.1.1. Components of a suspension bridge. Source: Study.com

A suspension bridge is supported by curved cables that carries the vertical
loads. The loads are then transferred to both towers, which transfer the loads to the
ground in compression force. The anchorages must design to resist the forces act by
the cables. As the deck is hung up by the cables, the deck must be heavy or stiff
enough to resist movement under loads caused by forces such as vehicle movements,
wind loads etc.

Figure 6.5.1.2. Tensile and compression forces on the suspension bridge. Source:
Britannica.

One of the notable suspension bridges is the Golden Gate Bridge in US.
Golden Gate Bridge spans 1280 meters long and is supported by cables hung from
two towers on 227 meters height. The bridge is supported by two main cables that are

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each made up of about 27,572 strands of steel wire. These cables are anchored to the
massive concrete structures at each end of the bridge and are held in place by
enormous steel cables that runs from the towers to the anchorages. The bridge deck is
suspended from the main cables by vertical suspenders, which are also made of steel
cables. (TheConversation, 2017).

Figure 6.5.1.3. Golden Gate Bridge.

From the case study, the Golden Gate Bridge is the typical type of suspension
bridge in which the figure above shows anchorages at both end of the bridge, and the
main cables are anchored to these anchorages. The cables are hung directly from the
route up to the towers at both sides, forming an ‘A shape’. The Golden Gate Bridge is
a successful example of suspension bridge that showcases the structural brilliant.

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6.5.2 DISCUSSION

Span of bridge = 1000mm

Dip = 186.5mm

Table 6.5.2.1 – Average Result

UDL, w Cable Tension at Support (N)
(N/m) Left Pulley Right Pulley
Experimental Theoretical Experimental Theoretical
Initial 0.00 0.00 0 0.00

10.6 8.10 8.86 9.45 8.86

11.0 8.50 9.20 9.65 9.20

11.6 9.05 9.70 10.15 9.70

Table 6.5.2.2 – Average Experimental Result comparing Theoretical

UDL, w Cable Tension at Support (N)
(N/m) Experimental Theoretical
Initial 0.00 0.00
10.6 8.78 8.86
11.0 9.08 9.20
11.6 9.60 9.70

1. Using the data in Table 2, plot the graph of cable tension at the support against
load for the experimental and theoretical case.
2. Draw the best-fit curve to pass through the plotted points.

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 Figure 6.5.1.4. Graph of UDL Against Cable Tension Support.
3 Calculate the percentage error between theoretical and experimental results.

[(Experimental Value) – (Theoretical Value) / Theoretical Value)] x 100% =

Percentage Error
Experimental Value = (9.6 - 0.0) / (11.6 - 0.0) = 0.828
Theoretical Value = (9.7-0.0) / (11.6 - 0.0) = 0.836
Percentage error % = (0.853 - 0.836) / 0.836 x 100% = 0.96%

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6.5.3. CONCLUSION:
1. From the results above state the relationship between the cable tension at the
support and the applied load.
 As the result shows, the relationship between the cable tension at the
support and the applied load are directly proportional. Therefore, the cable
tension at the support will increase as the applied load increases.

2. State the probable source of error for this experiment.

 Human error is one of the probable sources of error. The person who
responsible for putting the steel rods on the equipment may have
positioned it slightly unbalanced which causes a statistical error.
 Faulty equipment would be another probable cause. The equipment may
have inaccurate reading or unbalanced steel rods which affects the final
reading of data.

6.5.4 BLIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES

Britannica. 2021. Suspension Bridge. Viewed on 29 February 2023. Retrieved from:
https://www.britannica.com/technology/suspension-bridge
Study. 2023. Suspension Bridge Overview & Parts. Viewed on 29 February 2023.
Retrieved from: https://study.com/academy/lesson/suspension-bridge-overview-
parts.html
Chowdhury. 2023. Suspension Bridge – Definition, Facts, Types. Viewed on 3 March
2023. Retrieved from: https://civiltoday.com/construction/bridge/347-suspension-
bridge
GangaRao, Hota. 2017. How would engineers build the golden gate bridge today.
Viewed on 6 March 2023. Retrieved from: https://theconversation.com/how-would-
engineers-build-the-golden-gate-bridge-today-77846

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