MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
University of Maine
Orono, Maine
MEE 251 STRENGTH OF MATERIALS
Course Syllabus
FALL 2011
Catalog Description: The principles of solid mechanics and their applications to practical
problems; stresses and deflections in axial loading, torsion, beams, columns, combined stresses.
Prerequisites: MEE150, MAT127, Rec. 3, Cr. 3.
Course Instructor: Vincent Caccese, Professor of Mechanical Engineering,
Room 212 Boardman Hall. Tel. 581-2131; email vince.caccese@umit.maine.edu
Text: Mechanics of Materials, by T. Philpot, Wiley and Sons.
Topics:
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
STRESS
STRAIN
MECHANICAL RESPONSE OF MATERIALS
STRUCTURAL DESIGN
Exam 1
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
AXIAL DEFORMATION
TORSION
Exam 2
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
SHEAR FORCE AND BENDING MOMENT IN BEAMS
BENDING IN BEAMS
SHEAR STRESS IN BEAM
DEFLECTIONS OF BEAMS
Exam 3
Chapter 12
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
STRESS TRANSFORMATION
PRESSURE VESSELS
COMBINED LOADS
COLUMNS
Exam 4 – Not comprehensive; given during final exams week
Course Objectives: The objectives of the course are for the student to attain knowledge of:
a) the purpose of studying strength of materials in relation to engineering design and analysis.
b) the importance of performing this work thoroughly and correctly.
c) the general strength of materials principles with applications in Mechanical Engineering;
d) the proper use of the theory and equations presented.
e) the appropriate use of modern computational tools.
f) and basic stress analysis as used in the design process.
Course Outcomes: The student will demonstrate an ability to:
a) analyze fundamental stress states, strains and deflections in basic structural components;
b) identify, formulate and solve problems related to basic structural components.
In summary, the student will demonstrate an ability to apply their knowledge of mathematics,
scienc and engineering to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems.
ABET Category Content: Engineering Science – 3 credits or 100%.
Assement methods: Homework assignments and due dates will be posted on the internet at
http://www.umaine.edu/MechEng/Caccese/MEE251/MEE251.htm. Homework will be
collected in class on the day it is due. Four examinations will be given during the semester.
Grading Policy: The course grade will be based upon homework and the four exam grades, each
weighted equally.
Distribution is as follows:
Homework
Exam 1
Exam 2
Exam 3
Exam 4
TOTAL
- 8%
- 23%
- 23%
- 23%
- 23%
- 100%
Attendance policy: Attendance at all class meetings is expected. Attendance at lectures will
contribute to the successful completion of this course. Attendance at additional help sessions is
optional but highly recommended.
Accommodations: Students with disabilities who may need services or accommodations to fully
participate in this class should contact Ann Smith, Director of Disability Services in 121 East
Annex, (voice) 581-2319, (TTY) 581-2325 as early as possible in the semester.