Flexible I-Beam

Investigate structural properties of an I-Beam

  • » Visually observe the flex
  • » Feel the difference in stiffness vertically vs. horizontally
  • » Quantitatively measure force and deflection

Flexible I-Beam  (ME-9891)

Flexible I-Beam

The direction of bending makes all the difference. Although she appears to be much stronger, the beam is four times stiffer in the direction he is bending it.

Experience the Structural Strength

Students can flex this I-Beam by hand, allowing them to both see and feel the difference in the stiffness when bent in different directions. They will quickly observe that the I-Beam is much stiffer vertically than it is horizontally. They will also find it easily twists. A great way to introduce concepts of structural strength.

Flexible I-Beam

Perform quantitative studies of the bending of I-Beam using a Motion Sensor (records position over time) and a Force Sensor.

Perform quantitative studies

  • Electronically measure both force applied and the displacement simultaneously, using force sensor, ultrasonic motion sensor, and data collection and analysis equipment.
  • Investigate and measure how a beam bends under various load and support configurations, including a cantilevered beam.
  • Vary the temperature of the beam for even further study. Students can measure the decrease in stiffness as a cooler beam is warmed.
Graph 1

Graph shows the force applied to the end of the cantilever beam versus the displacement for both directions of bending. Enlarge image.

The PASCO Value

This Flexible I-Beam is designed for use. It will return to its original straightness after bending. The Force Sensor and the Motion Sensor makes measurement of force and displacement both reliable and easy -- your students collect continuous data through the entire application of force on the I-Beam, automatically synchronizing force and displacement data.


Here's what you need:

Flexible I-beam
Flexible I-Beam (ME-9891)

This Flexible I-Beam is molded of quality plastic, and measures 24 inches long by 2 inches tall by 1.5 inches wide. Flexible enough to manipulate, yet firm enough to hold its own weight without sagging. The Flexible I-Beam returns to its original straightness after bending.

Force Sensor
Force Sensor (PS-2104)

This strain gauge Force Sensor is used to measure the force applied to the Flexible I-Beam in various configurations.

Motion Sensor
Motion Sensor (PS-2103A)

The ultrasonic Motion Sensor is used here to measure the displacement of the Flexible I-Beam when force is applied. This Motion Sensor has a resolution of 1 mm. Also has a wide variety of uses in dynamics studies.

Xplorer GLX
Xplorer GLX (PS-2002)

Provides convenient and powerful data collection and analysis -- even without a computer. Includes 2 temperature sensors, voltage sensor, built-in speaker and sound sensor. Print results directly to a computer or download to a USB Flash Drive for later analysis or lab write-up. A great value for your engineering lab. If you will be doing all your labs with computers, you may also consider the PowerLink or 2 USB Links (two required for the activity above).

This equipment is required to cantilever your I-Beam and to position the Motion Sensor as shown in the photo above:

PASCO solution at a glance

For more product information, specifications, to request a quote or place an order, click the product links to the left.

Supporting equipment:

Featured Products

  • Flexible I-Beam
    (ME-9891)

    A molded quality plastic, and measures 24 inches long by 2 inches tall by 1.5 inches wide. Flexible enough to manipulate, yet firm enough to hold its own weight without sagging.

  • Force Sensor
    (PS-2104)

    Measures the force applied to the Flexible I-Beam in various configurations.

  • Motion Sensor
    (PS-2103A)

    Measures the displacement of the Flexible I-Beam when force is applied.

  • Xplorer GLX
    (PS-2002)

    Includes 2 temperature sensors, voltage sensor, built-in speaker and sound sensor.