Metacentric Height and Stability Apparatus
The Metacentric Height and Stability Apparatus by Atto Labware is designed to determine the metacentric height of a floating body and study its stability under different loading conditions. This apparatus helps students understand the concept of buoyancy, center of gravity, metacenter, and stability of floating vessels. It is essential equipment for Hydraulics, Naval Architecture, and Marine Engineering laboratories.
Educational Objectives
Students and researchers will be able to:
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Experimentally determine the metacentric height of a floating body.
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Analyze the stability of floating bodies under various loading conditions.
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Understand the relationship between the center of gravity, center of buoyancy, and metacenter.
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Study the equilibrium conditions (stable, unstable, and neutral) of floating bodies.
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Validate theoretical principles of flotation and stability using experimental results.
Performance Measurement
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Measurement of metacentric height at various heel angles.
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Calculation of righting moment for different displacements.
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Observation of equilibrium position for different loading configurations.
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Comparison between theoretical and experimental stability results.
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Determination of conditions for neutral equilibrium.
Panel and Instruments / Components
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Floating Body (Pontoon Model): A rectangular acrylic or mild steel pontoon fitted with a movable weight for adjusting the center of gravity.
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Tilting Mechanism: Graduated tilting arm and hanger weights to apply known moments.
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Still Water Tank: Transparent tank filled with water to allow free floating of the pontoon.
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Pendulum Assembly: Mounted inside the pontoon for measuring tilt angle.
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Weight Set: Calibrated weights for loading the pontoon and applying external moments.
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Angle Scale: Protractor or angular scale attached for measuring heel angles.
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Support Frame: Rigid powder-coated steel frame ensuring durability and corrosion resistance.
Specifications (Includes Technical Data)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Floating Body Dimensions | Approx. 300 mm × 150 mm × 100 mm |
| Water Tank Dimensions | Approx. 600 mm × 400 mm × 250 mm |
| Adjustable Movable Weight | 0.5–2 kg |
| Hanger and Weights | Set of calibrated weights up to 1 kg |
| Angle Measurement | ±10° range with precision scale |
| Construction | Transparent acrylic tank and steel pontoon with powder-coated frame |
| Working Fluid | Water |
| Operating Temperature | +5 °C to +40 °C |
| Storage Temperature | –25 °C to +55 °C |
| Overall Dimensions | 700 mm L × 500 mm W × 400 mm H |
| Weight (Approx.) | 20 kg |
Note: Optional digital inclinometer and data acquisition modules are available for enhanced measurement precision.
