Measure and record dimensions of three concrete beams to ensure all test subjects are identical and do not exceed 10 feet in length.
Place concrete blocks 9 feet apart. The blocks should be the same width as the beam and at least 5 feet tall.
Set one beam lengthwise across the blocks so it is suspended a minimum of 5 feet above the ground.
Position the hydraulic jacks directly over the beam 3 feet in from each block.
Apply 500 lbs. of loading pressure to the beam with the hydraulic jacks. Increase the loading in 100-lb. increments and track with a dial gauge.
Record the cracking load and number of cracks in the beam. Repeat the experiment with the remaining beams and average the results to determine the load capacity of the each beam.