DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY ROPAR

RUPNAGAR-140001, INDIA
IIT Ropar

MACHINE DESIGN (ME306) LABORATORY - II REPORT

For
Experiment 7: Single Degree of Freedom

Submitted by
Mehboob Alam (2022MEB1323)
Sahil Mhapsekar (2022MEB1324)
Mili Prajapati (2022MEB1325)
Mohit Sharma (2022MEB1326)
Palakpreet Kaur (2022MEB1327)

Lab-Group: Mon (Group-C)

Supervised By

Dr. Srikant Shekhar Padhee

Experiment Performed On: 17-03-2025

Report Submitted On: 24-03-2025
Table of contents:

1. Title

2. Introduction

3. Aim

4. Theory

5. Material Required

6. Procedure

7. Observations

8. Results

9. Conclusion and discussion

10. References
1. Title
Forced vibration response of a single degree of freedom (SDOF) system

2. Introduction
In engineering applications like as machine design, car suspension systems, and earthquake-resistant
structures, an understanding of forced vibrations is essential. A single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF)
system that is excited by external harmonics is the subject of this experiment. The system's reaction is
examined in a variety of damping conditions, such as air and viscous fluids. In order to shed light on
resonance processes and vibrational energy dissipation, the study intends to calculate the
Magnification Factor, Phase Angle, and Natural Frequency under various settings.

3. Aim
To study the forced vibration response of a single degree of freedom (SDOF) system (vertical spring-
mass system) and analyse the effects of different damping media on its oscillatory behaviour.

4. Objective:
 To investigate the influence of spring stiffness on the vibration characteristics of an SDOF system.
 To determine the effect of damping media (Air, 5W30 Oil, and 15W40 Oil) on amplitude decay and
oscillation frequency.
 To analyse the connection between the frequency ratio (driving frequency to natural frequency) and
the magnification factor.

5. Theory
A Single Degree of Freedom (SDOF) system consists of a mass, a spring, and a damper, all subjected to
an external force. Understanding forced vibrations is crucial in engineering, as many structures and
machines experience periodic forces. Analysing the system’s response helps in designing safer and
more efficient mechanical systems by controlling vibrations and preventing resonance-related failures.

The motion of an SDOF system under a harmonic external force can be described by the equation:
m ẍ+ c ẋ + kx=F cos ( ωt )
where:
 m is the mass,
 c is the damping coefficient,
 k is the spring stiffness,
 x is the displacement of the mass,
 F is the force amplitude,
 ω is the excitation frequency,
 t is time.

The system's response consists of two parts:

Transient Response: This part depends on initial conditions and gradually dies out due to damping.
Steady-State Response: This is the long-term response determined by the external force.

In the steady state, the system oscillates at the excitation frequency with an amplitude:
 F
X=
√( k−m ω ) +( cω )
2 2 2

and a phase angle:

cω
tan ϕ= 2
k−mω
Resonance and Damping
Resonance occurs when the excitation frequency (ω\omega) is close to the system’s natural
frequency (ω n) where:

√
ω n= k
m
Without damping, the amplitude becomes very large at resonance, potentially causing system
failure. Damping helps control vibrations by absorbing energy, and its effect is quantified using the
damping ratio (ζ):
c
ζ=
2 √ mk

Depending on ζ , the system can behave in different ways:

 Underdamped (ζ<1): The system oscillates with gradually decreasing amplitude.
 Critically damped (ζ=1): The system returns to equilibrium as quickly as possible without
oscillating.
 Overdamped (ζ>1): The system returns to equilibrium slowly without oscillations.

6. Material required
 Different viscosity damping mediums (Air, 5W30 Oil, 15W40 Oil)
 Three springs of different stiffness
 Masses attached to the spring
 A digital weighing scale
 A length-measuring scale
 Data Acquisition System (DAQ) with an accelerometer.

7. Procedure
1. Choose three springs with different stiffness values. Attach a mass to form a spring-mass system
and connect it to an accelerometer, which is linked to the Vibration Fundamentals Trainer (VFT)
and Channel 2 of the DAQ system.
2. Open InstaCal and VFT software to start data acquisition. Set the recording duration to 10 seconds
in the Measurements tab and configure the required parameters.
3. Adjust motor speed using the Motor Control Panel in the software. Modify the RPM via the Digital
Control Panel to create periodic external forces and ensure a steady sinusoidal force on the
system.

4. Capture vibration data using the Manual Pole Tab. Measure the system’s response at different
forcing frequencies—below resonance, at resonance, and above resonance. Document the
 magnification factor, which represents the ratio of output vibration amplitude to input force
amplitude.
5. Immerse the spring-mass system in 5W-30 damping fluid and repeat the experiment. Observe and
record changes in system behavior. Replace the damping fluid with 15W-40, conduct the test
again, and compare results.
6. Swap the current spring with one of a different stiffness and repeat all previous steps.
7. Generate a frequency response curve to study the relationship between the magnification factor
and frequency ratio. Examine how changes in stiffness, damping, and mass affect vibration
behavior.

8. Observations

Spring 1: k = 511.5 N/m, ω n=¿ 31 rad/s

Fluid Frequency Mean Amplitude Magnification Factor Frequency ratio

Air 30.56 0.143 0.28 0.752
37.79 0.245 0.914 0.929
40.24 0.127 0.18 0.989
45.49 0.12 0.133 1.118
52.29 0.195 0.606 1.285
5W30 25.29 0.11 0.073 0.623
28.69 0.125 0.164 0.706
40.49 0.118 0.124 0.995
48.29 0.112 0.086 1.186
59.69 0.11 0.072 1.466
15W40 30.99 0.191 0.581 0.762
34.79 0.146 0.297 0.856
40.09 0.118 0.124 0.985
48.09 0.112 0.087 1.182

Spring 2: k=102.298, ω n=14 rad/s

Fluid Frequency Mean Amplitude Magnification Factor Frequency ratio

Air 10.69 0.106 0.0321 0.753
11.99 0.1197 0.0711 0.846
14.49 0.1105 0.0489 1.024
18.79 0.1098 0.0464 1.331
23.29 0.1089 0.043 1.653
5W30 8.59 0.1016 0.0158 0.603
11.29 0.104 0.0247 0.796
13.99 0.106 0.0321 0.989
20.79 0.1021 0.0177 1.474
27.89 0.1019 0.0172 1.981
15W40 9.49 0.1022 0.018 0.667
11.99 0.1076 0.038 0.846
14.39 0.1058 0.0316 1.017
21.29 0.102 0.0174 1.51
26.79 0.1018 0.0165 1.903
Spring 3: k=204.5, ω n=20rad/s
 Fluid Frequency Mean Amplitude Magnification Factor Frequency ratio
Air 8.69 0.1115 0.0561 0.593
11.79 0.1103 0.0512 0.809
14.49 0.1244 0.0978 0.996
22.59 0.1043 0.0272 1.559
30.29 0.1039 0.0258 2.093
5W30 10.69 0.1026 0.0204 0.732
13.29 0.1175 0.0803 0.913
14.39 0.1081 0.0424 0.989
23.79 0.1018 0.0171 1.642
30.29 0.102 0.0178 2.093
15W40 8.19 0.1017 0.0168 0.559
12.99 0.114 0.066 0.892
14.29 0.1069 0.0378 0.982
22.79 0.1021 0.0183 1.573
25.29 0.102 0.018 1.746

9. Results

Spring 1:

Fig 1: Plot of Magnification factor vs frequency ratio for spring with k = 511.5N/m

Spring 2:
 Fig 2: Plot of Magnification factor vs frequency ratio for spring with k = 102.9N/m

Spring 3:

Fig 3: Plot of Magnification factor vs frequency ratio for spring with k = 204.5N/m
 10. Conclusion and discussion
10.1. 2022meb1323 (Mehboob Alam)
Analysis of Forced Vibration and Damping Effects
This experiment examined the response of a single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) spring-mass
system subjected to forced vibration under different damping conditions. The study
highlighted the crucial role of damping in vibration control by testing three damping
mediums—Air, 5W30 oil, and 15W40 oil—alongside springs of varying stiffness to evaluate
their impact on vibration amplitude, resonance, and energy dissipation.
Key Observations and Insights
Effect of Damping Mediums
 Air (Lowest Viscosity, Minimal Damping): Produced the highest magnification
factor (MF), resulting in the most pronounced oscillations.
 5W30 Oil (Moderate Viscosity, Medium Damping): Reduced vibrations compared
to air but still allowed noticeable oscillatory motion.
 15W40 Oil (Highest Viscosity, Maximum Damping): Absorbed the most energy,
significantly suppressing vibrations.
Resonance and Its Influence
 Resonance was observed when the forcing frequency matched the system’s natural
frequency, leading to a sharp increase in MF.
 In air (low damping), the MF exhibited a pronounced peak, consistent with theoretical
predictions that, in the absence of damping, MF tends toward infinity.
 Increased damping (using oils) effectively suppressed resonance peaks, limiting
excessive vibrations and reducing the risk of structural damage.
 A slight downward shift in the resonance frequency was noted as damping increased,
reinforcing its role in controlling oscillations.
Post-Resonance Behavior
 After surpassing the resonance point, MF consistently decreased across all test
conditions.
 Greater damping not only reduced the peak amplitude but also broadened the
frequency response curve, improving energy dissipation and system stability.
Comparison with Theory
 The theoretical model predicts that in the absence of damping, MF at resonance
becomes infinitely large—this was confirmed in air.
 Experimental results closely aligned with theoretical expectations, validating the
effectiveness of damping mechanisms in vibration control.
 Observed phase angle variations followed expected trends, transitioning from in-phase
motion at low frequencies to a lagging response at higher excitation frequencies.
Practical Applications & Engineering Significance
 Automotive Suspension Systems: Shock absorbers utilize damping to reduce
excessive oscillations, ensuring a smoother ride.
 Structural Engineering: Buildings and bridges integrate damping systems to mitigate
vibrations caused by wind, earthquakes, or external forces, enhancing structural
integrity.
  Industrial Machinery: Damping mechanisms in manufacturing equipment help
control vibrations, improving precision and extending the lifespan of machinery.
This study underscored the essential role of damping in vibration control. Systems with
lower damping exhibited pronounced resonance peaks, whereas higher viscosity fluids
significantly reduced oscillations, improving energy dissipation and stability. Proper
selection of damping materials is crucial for preventing mechanical failures, optimizing
system performance, and ensuring structural safety. Effectively managing resonance and
damping mechanisms is fundamental to the design of safe and efficient mechanical systems.

10.2. 2022meb1324 (Sahil Mhapsekar)

This experiment provided insights into the behavior of a vibrating system under external forces and
the influence of damping on its response. Three damping mediums—Air, 5W30 oil, and 15W40 oil
—were tested with springs of different stiffness to observe their effects on vibration, resonance, and
energy dissipation. Air, with minimal resistance, resulted in the highest magnification factor (MF),
while 5W30 oil moderately reduced vibrations, and 15W40 oil, being the most viscous, significantly
dampened oscillations. Resonance was observed when the forcing frequency matched the system's
natural frequency, causing a sharp MF peak in air, while in the oil mediums, damping controlled
excessive motion by lowering the resonance peak. Beyond resonance, the MF decreased, and higher
damping not only reduced peak amplitude but also smoothed the response curve, enhancing energy
dissipation. The results aligned with theoretical models, confirming that without damping, MF peaks
sharply at resonance, while damping effectively controls oscillations. The phase angle variations
observed also followed expected trends, transitioning from in-phase motion at low frequencies to a
lag at higher excitation frequencies.
Some Applications related to this experiment:
Automotive Suspension Systems – Damping plays a crucial role in shock absorbers, ensuring a
smooth ride by minimizing excessive oscillations caused by road irregularities.
Structural Engineering – Buildings and bridges incorporate damping mechanisms to reduce
vibrations from wind, earthquakes, or external forces, preventing structural damage.
Machinery and Equipment – Industrial machines use dampers to reduce vibrations, improving
precision in manufacturing processes and prolonging equipment lifespan.

10.3. 2022meb1325 (Mili Prajapati)

This experiment helped us understand how a vibrating system behaves when an external force is applied and
how damping affects its response. We tested three different damping mediums—Air, 5W30 oil, and 15W40
oil—on three springs with different stiffness values. Our goal was to see how these factors influence
vibration, resonance, and energy dissipation.

10.3.1. Key Observations and Learnings:

1. Effect of Damping Mediums:

o Air provided the least resistance, allowing the system to vibrate the most, resulting in a high
magnification factor (MF).
o 5W30 oil reduced the vibrations compared to air but still allowed noticeable oscillations.
o 15W40 oil, being more viscous, absorbed the most energy, reducing vibrations significantly.
2. Resonance and Its Impact:
o When the forcing frequency matched the natural frequency of the system, we observed
resonance, where the vibrations became much stronger.
 o In air (low damping), the MF reached a high peak, confirming that without damping,
resonance can cause extreme vibrations.
o In the oil mediums, the resonance peak was much lower, meaning damping helped in
controlling excessive motion.
3. Behaviour After Resonance:
o After the system crossed the resonance point, the MF started decreasing.
o Higher damping (using oils) not only reduced the peak amplitude but also made the response
curve smoother, meaning energy was dissipated more effectively.

10.3.2. Comparison with Theory:

 Theoretical models suggest that without damping, the MF should become infinitely large at
resonance. Our results in air-supported this, as MF peaked sharply.
 The damping effects observed in experiments matched theoretical predictions, proving that adding a
damping medium controls excessive oscillations.
 The way phase angle changed with frequency also followed expected trends, shifting from in-phase
motion at low frequencies to a lag at higher excitation frequencies.

10.3.3. Practical Applications:

 Damping is essential in mechanical systems like car suspensions, earthquake-resistant buildings, and
rotating machinery to avoid excessive vibrations.
 If vibrations are not controlled, they can cause structural failures in machines and buildings.
 This experiment showed that by choosing the right damping method, engineers can design safer and
more stable mechanical systems.

We saw firsthand how damping plays a crucial role in controlling vibrations. Higher damping means fewer
oscillations, smoother operation, and better energy absorption. These insights are useful in real-world
applications where reducing excessive vibrations is necessary for safety and efficiency.

10.4. 2022meb1326 (Mohit Sharma)

Effect of Damping Mediums:
 The experiment demonstrated how different damping mediums (Air, 5W30 oil, and 15W40 oil)
influence the system's vibrational response.
 Air, having the lowest viscosity, resulted in the highest magnification factor (MF), while 15W40 oil,
with its higher viscosity, significantly dampened the oscillations.
Resonance Phenomenon:
 Resonance occurred when the forcing frequency matched the system’s natural frequency.
 In low damping conditions (Air), MF exhibited a sharp peak, supporting theoretical predictions that
MF approaches infinity in the absence of damping.
 Higher damping (using oils) suppressed resonance peaks, reducing excessive vibrations and
preventing structural damage.
Post-Resonance Behaviour:
 Beyond resonance, MF decreased in all cases.
 Higher damping not only reduced peak amplitude but also broadened the frequency response
curve, allowing better energy dissipation.
This experiment demonstrated how damping affects vibrations, with lower damping causing higher
resonance peaks and higher viscosity fluids reducing oscillations. Proper damping enhances stability,
prevents failures, and optimizes mechanical system performance.
10.5. 2022meb1327 (Palakpreet Kaur)
 This experiment analyzed the forced vibration response of a single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF)
spring-mass system under varying damping conditions, emphasizing the significant influence of
damping on vibration control. The results clearly showed that the magnification factor (MF) was
highest in air, where damping was minimal, and lowest in 15W40 oil, demonstrating that increased
viscosity enhances energy dissipation and reduces oscillations. Theoretical predictions were
validated, as the MF peaked when the frequency ratio approached 1, highlighting the resonance
phenomenon.
 Resonance was observed when the external forcing frequency matched the system’s natural
frequency, causing a sharp increase in oscillations. However, the introduction of higher damping
effectively suppressed the peak amplitude and slightly shifted the resonance frequency, reinforcing
its crucial role in mitigating excessive vibrations. Additionally, variations in phase angle at
resonance aligned with theoretical expectations, further solidifying the understanding of forced
vibration dynamics.
 These findings have critical implications for engineering applications, particularly in vibration
control strategies for mechanical structures, automotive suspension systems, and rotating machinery.
Proper selection of damping materials and techniques is essential for preventing mechanical failures,
enhancing structural stability, and improving overall system efficiency. This experiment effectively
demonstrated the importance of resonance management and the necessity of damping mechanisms in
mechanical design for reliable and safe operation.

11. References
Lab manual
internet