Photoelasticity is a tried and proven method of analysing and recording mechanical stresses and strains in components. It is deployed for quantitative measurement and to demonstrate complex stress states. The components used are models made of transparent, photoelastically sensitive plastic which becomes optically double-refractive under mechanical loading.

  FL 200 is used to perform photoelastic experiments on flat, transparent plastic models. The models are subjected to loading by external forces, and have circular polarised light shone through them. An analyser analyses the light which has penetrated the body.

  The experimental setup comprises the following components: A light source, four filters (to generate circular polarised light) and a frame inside which the models are attached and subjected to loading. The light source optionally permits coloured stress patterns with white light or light / dark representation with monochromatic light.

  The combination of a polarisation filter and a quarter wave plate generates circular polarised light. Behind the model is a second quarter wave plate (perpendicular to the first one), combined with a second polarisation filter. The filters are mounted on rotating bearings and provided with angle scales.

  Various models are mounted inside the frame. A load application device applies bending, tensile or compressive load to the model by way of a spindle. Stresses and strains occurring in the model are identifiable as bright spots, visualising the distribution of stress. To determine the principal stress difference, the order of the dark isochromatics is evaluated.

  FL 200 permits flexible experimental setups even with self-made models.
 

- Generation of planar stress states in various

  models under load
  * bending, tensile load, compressive load
- Investigation of diffusion of stresses with plane or

  circular polarised light
- Interpretation of photoelastic fringe patterns
  * stress concentrations, zero points, neutral fibres,

     areas of constant stress, stress gradients
- Determination of occurring stresses and strains

  graphically and arithmetically