ABSTRACT
An empirical formula is a formula obtained by experiment. The Performance equations for corrugated diaphragms may be derived from data obtained by pressure-loading the diaphragm and recording the corresponding deflections. Then by an appropriate method, a formula is obtained that represents the relationship existing between load and deflection as a function of diaphragm size, corrugation profile, sheet thickness, and modulus of elasticity. Within certain limits, this formula can be used to predict the Performance of diaphragms. Of several methods used to obtain an empirical formula, the graphical method is the easiest one to use—especially when the given data can be represented by a predetermined equation. Corrugated diaphragms can be designed to approximate load-deflection characteristics of nonlinear Systems. The procedure for obtaining the "empirical formula" for a nonlinear System is to plot first the system's characteristic curve.
