3

Trusses
A truss is a structure made up of slender members pin-connected at ends and is capable of taking
loads at joints. They are used as roof trusses to support sloping roofs and as bridge trusses to support
deck. In many machines steel trusses are used. Transmission towers are also the examples of trusses.
In the case of wooden trusses, the ends are connected by making suitable joints or by nailing and
bolting whereas in steel trusses ends are connected by bolting or welding. The trusses are also known
as pinjointed frames.
A truss in which all the members lie in a single plane is called as a plane truss. In such trusses
loads act in the plane of the truss only. Roof trusses and bridge trusses can be considered as plane
trusses. If all the members of a truss do not lie in a single plane, then it is called a space truss. Tripod
and transmission towers are the examples of space trusses. In this chapter, the analysis of only plane
trusses is considered.
3.1

PERFECT, DEFICIENT AND REDUNDANT TRUSSES

2
A pinjointed truss which has got just sufficient number of members to
resist the loads without undergoing appreciable deformation in shape is
called a perfect truss. Triangular truss is the simplest perfect truss and it
1
2
has three joints and three members (Fig. 3.1). Perfect trusses with four and
five joints are shown in Figs. 3.2 and 3.3 respectively.
1
It may be observed that to increase one joint in a perfect truss, two
3
more members are required. Hence the following expression may be written
Fig. 3.1
down as the relationship between number of joints j, and the number of
members m, in a perfect truss.
4
m = 2j 3
...(3.1)
2
However, the above equation gives only a necessary, but
not a sufficient condition of a perfect truss. For example, the
1
3
two trusses shown in Fig. 3.4(a) and (b) have the same number
of members and joints. The truss shown in Fig. 3.4(a) is perfect whereas the one shown in Fig. 3.4(b) is not capable of
1
retaining its shape if loaded at the joint marked 6. Therefore,
3
2
the only necessary and sufficient condition of a perfect truss
is that it should retain its shape when load is applied at any
Fig. 3.2
joint in any direction.

65

66

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

2
1

4
6

5
7

Fig. 3.3

3
(a)

3
(b)

P
6

Fig. 3.4

A truss is said to be deficient if the number of members in

it are less than that required for a perfect truss. Such trusses
cannot retain their shape when loaded. A deficient truss is shown
in Fig. 3.5.
A truss is said to be redundant if the number of members in
it are more than that required in a perfect truss. Such trusses
cannot be analysed by making use of the equations of equilibrium
alone. Thus, a redundant truss is statically indeterminate. Each
extra member adds one degree of indeterminancy. For the analysis
of such members the consistency of deformations is to be
considered. The truss shown in the Fig. 3.6 is a typical redundant
truss. In this truss one diagonal member in each panel is extra.
Hence it is a two-degree redundant truss.
In this chapter, only the analysis of perfect frames is
considered.
3.2

Fig. 3.5

Fig. 3.6

ASSUMPTIONS

In the theory that is going to be developed in this chapter, the following assumptions are made:
(1) The ends of the members are pin-connected (hinged);
(2) The loads act only at the joints;
(3) Self-weights of the members are negligible;
(4) Cross-section of the members is uniform.
If at all the cross-section varies, the centre of gravity of the section is assumed to be located
along the same longitudinal line.
In reality the members are connected by bolting, riveting or by welding. No special care is taken
to ensure perfect pin-connections. However, experiments have shown that assuming pin-connected
ends is quite satisfactory since the members used are slender.

67

TRUSSES

In most of the frames the loads act at the joints. Even if a load is not acting at a joint, it can
be replaced by its reaction at the joint and a local bending effect on the member. The frame may
be analysed for the joint loads and the local bending effect on the member superposed in the design
of that member.
In most of the trusses, the self-weight is really small compared to the loads they carry. Hence
self-weight of the members may be neglected.
It is the duty of construction engineer to see that the centroid of all cross-sections lie along a
single axis so that the member is held in equilibrium by the two forces acting at its ends.
Because of the assumption of pin-connected ends, it is more appropriate to call the theory that
is going to be developed in this chapter as analysis of pin-connected plane trusses. Analysis of rigid
frames is not covered in this book.
3.3

NATURE OF FORCES IN MEMBERS

The members of a truss are subjected to either tensile or compressive forces. A typical truss ABCDE
loaded at joint E is shown in Fig. 3.7(a). The member BC is subjected to compressive force C as
shown in Fig. 3.7(b). Effect of this force on the joint B (or C) is equal and opposite to the force C
as shown in Fig. 3.7(b).
B

Fig. 3.7(a)

Fig. 3.7(b)

The member AE is subjected to tensile force T. Its effect on the joints A and E are as shown
in Fig. 3.7(b). In the analysis of frame we mark the forces on the joints, instead of the forces in the
members as shown in Fig. 3.7(c). It may be noted that compressive force in a member is represented
in a figure by two arrows going away from each other and a tensile force by two arrows coming
towards each other. This is quite logical considering the fact that the markings on the members
represent the internal reactive forces developed which are opposite in direction to the applied forces.

68

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

C O M PR ESSIO N

TEN SIO N
Fig. 3.7(c)

3.4 METHODS OF ANALYSIS

The following three methods are available for the analysis of pin-connected frames:
(1) Method of joints
(2) Method of section
(3) Graphical method.
The first two are analytical methods and they are dealt in this chapter.
3.5

METHOD OF JOINTS

At each joint the forces in the members meeting and the loads acting, if any, constitute a system of
concurrent forces. Hence, two independent equations of equilibrium can be formed at each joint.
First, a joint is selected where there are only two unknown forces. Many times such a joint can be
identified only after finding the reaction at the support by considering the equilibrium of the entire
frame. Then making use of the two equations of equilibrium at that joint the two unknown forces
are found. Then, the next joint is selected for analysis where there are now only two unknown forces.
Thus, the analysis proceeds from joints to joint to find the forces in all the members.
It may be noted that if there are j number of joints, 2j number of the equations can be formed.
There will be three reactions in a general determinate truss. The force in each member is unknown.
Hence, if there are m number of members, the total number of unknowns will be m+3. A problem
can be analysed if there are as many equations as there are unknowns. Hence, a frame analysis
problem is determinate if:
2j = m + 3
...(3.2)
This equation is the same as Equation 3.1 which was derived on the consideration of a perfect
frame. Hence, a perfect frame is determinate. If m > 2j 3, then the number of unknowns is more
than the number of equations. Hence, a redundant frame is indeterminate. If m < 2j 3, then the
number of equations is more than the number of unknowns. Since a set of solutions can satisfy such
equations, it shows instability of the structure. Hence, a deficient frame is not stable.
The method of joints is illustrated with the examples 3.1 to 3.7.
A

EXAMPLES

Example 3.1. Find the forces in all the members of the

truss shown in Fig. 3.8(a). Tabulate the results.

3m
D

3m

40 kN

3m

Fig. 3.8(a)

40 kN

69

TRUSSES

Solution: Step 1: Determine the inclinations of all inclined members. In this case,
3
=1
3
= 45

Step 2: Look for a joint at which there are only two unknowns. If such a joint is not available,
determine the reactions at the supports, and then at the supports these unknowns may reduce to only
two.
Now at joints C, there are only two unknowns, i.e., forces in members CB and CD, say FCB and
FCD .

tan =

Note: Usually in cantilever type frames, we find such joints without the need to find reactions.

Step 3: Now there are two equations of equilibrium for the forces meeting at the joint and two
unknown forces. Hence, the unknown forces can be determined.
At joint C [Ref. Fig. 3.8(b)] V = 0 condition shows that the force FCB should act away from
the joint C so that its vertical component balances the vertical downward load at C.
FCB sin 45 = 40
FCB

FCB = 40 2 kN

Now H = 0 indicates that FCD should act towards C.

45

FCD FCB cos 45 = 0

FCD = FCB cos 45 = 40 2

FCD

1
= 40 kN
2

40 kN

Fig. 3.8(b)

Note: If the assumed direction of unknown force is opposite, the value will be negative. Then reverse the
direction and proceed.

Step 4: On the diagram of the truss, mark arrows on the members near the joint analysed to indicate
the forces on the joint. At the other end, mark the arrows in the reverse direction.
In the present case, near the joint C, the arrows are marked on the members CB and CD to
indicate forces FCB and FCD directions as found in the analysis of joint C. Then reversed directions
are marked in the members CB and CD near joints B and D, respectively.
FDB
Step 5: Look for the next joint where there are only two unknown
forces and analyse that joint.
FDE D
In this case, there are only two unknown forces at the joint
40 kN
D as shown in Fig. 3.8(c).
V = 0
40 kN
FDB = 40 kN
Fig. 3.8(c)
H = 0
FDE = 40 kN
Step 6: Repeat steps 4 and 5 till forces in all the members are found.
In the present case, after marking the forces in the members
DB and DE, we find that analysis of joint B can be taken up.
Referring to Fig. 3.8(d).

F BA

45

45

F BE
40 kN

Fig. 3.8(d)

40 2

70

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

V = 0, gives

FBE sin 45 40 40 2 sin 45 = 0

FBE = 80 2 kN
H = 0
FBA FBE cos 45 40 2 cos 45 = 0
FBA = 80 2

1
1
+ 40 2
2
2

FBA = 120 kN
The directions of these forces are marked on the diagram. Now the analysis is complete since
the forces in all the members are determined.
Step 7: Determine the nature of forces in each member and
TE N S IO N
tabulate the results. Note that if the arrow marks on a member
C O M P R E S S IO N
are towards each other, then the member is in tension and if the
arrow marks are away from each other, the member is in
Fig. 3.8(e)
compression [Ref. Fig. 3.8(e)]. In this case,
Member

Magnitude of Force in kN

Nature

AB

120

Tension

BC

40 2

CD

40

Compression

DE

40

Compression

BE

80 2

Compression

BD

40

Tension

Tension

Example 3.2. Determine the forces in all the members of the truss shown in Fig. 3.9(a) and indicate
the magnitude and nature of forces on the diagram of the truss. All inclined members are at 60 to
horizontal and length of each member is 2 m.
40 kN

50 kN

60

60
2m

60
E

60

2m

60 kN

Fig. 3.9(a)

Solution: Now, we cannot find a joint with only two unknown forces without finding reactions.
Consider the equilibrium of the entire frame.
M A = 0, gives

71

TRUSSES

RD 4 40 1 60 2 50 3 = 0

RD = 77.5 kN
H = 0, gives

HA = 0

Reaction at A is vertical only

V = 0, gives

RA + 77.5 = 40 + 60 + 50

FAB

RA = 72.5 kN
V = 0, gives

Joint A:

FAB = 83.7158 kN

60

FAB sin 60 = RA = 72.5

FAE

(Comp.)

H = 0, gives

FAE 83.7158 cos 60 = 0

RA

Fig. 3.9(b)

FAE = 41.8579 kN (Tension)

FDC
60

Joint D:

V = 0, gives

RD

FDC sin 60 = RD = 77.5

FDC = 89.4893 kN (Comp.)

FDE

Fig. 3.9(c)

H = 0, gives

FDE 87.4893 cos 60 = 0

FDE = 44.7446 kN (Tension)

Joint B:

V = 0, gives

FBE sin 60 FAB sin 60 + 40 = 0

FBE =

40 kN

72.5 40
= 37.5278 (Tension) B
sin 60

F BC
60

H = 0, gives

FBC FAB cos 60 FBE cos 60 = 0

FBC = (83.7158 + 37.5274) 0.5
FBC = 60.6218 kN (Comp.)

F AB

60
F BE

Fig. 3.9(d)

72

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

Joint C:
V = 0, gives
FCE sin 60 + 50 FDC sin 60 = 0
FCE =

77.5 50
= 31.7543 kN (Tension)
sin 60

40 kN

F BC

B
60

60
F BE

F AB

Fig. 3.9(e)

Now the forces in all the members are known. If joint E is analysed it will give the check for
the analysis. The results are shown on the diagram of the truss in Fig. 3.9(f).
40 kN
B

43

8
715

.7 5
31

93

78

83.

TE N S IO N

.4 8

.5 2

4 1 .8 5 7 9

C O M P R E S S IO N

C
89

37

50 kN

6 0 .6 2 1 8

4 4 .7 4 4 6

60 kN

Fig. 3.9(f)

Example 3.3. Determine the forces in all the members of the truss shown in Fig. 3.10 (a).
20 kN
B

60

30
C

3m
RA

3m
10 kN

Fig. 3.10(a)

RD

73

TRUSSES

Solution:
AB = 6 sin 60 = 3 m; BD = 6 cos 30 = 23.09 m
In
ABC, AC = AB = 3 m

ABC = BCA = say

2 = 180 60 = 120
or
= 60
Taking moment about A, we get
RD 6 10 3 20 3 cos 60 = 0
RD = 10 kN

RA = 20 + 10 10 = 20 kN
60
[Note: H4 = 0] A
Joint A: Referring to Fig. 3.10(b)

FAC

RA = 20

V = 0, gives

Fig. 3.10(b)

20 FAB sin 60 = 0

FAB

FAB = 23.09 kN [Comp.]

H = 0, gives
FAC = 23.09 cos 60 = 11.55 kN [Tensile]

FAC FAB cos 60 = 0

Joint D:

FDB

V = 0, gives
FDB = 20 kN [Comp.]

FDB sin 30 = 10 or
H = 0, gives

30

FDC = 20 cos 30 = 17.32 kN [Tensile]

i.e.,

FDC

FDC + FDB cos 30 = 0

Fig. 3.10(c)

Joint C:

10

FCB

V = 0, gives
FCB sin 60 = 10

check

FCB = 11.55 kN

60

H = 0, gives

FCA

FCB cos 60 = FCD FCA = 17.32 11.55

FCB = 11.55,

Checked

Fig. 3.10(d)

These forces are marked in Fig. 3.10(e).

Compression
B
Tension
23
.0

20

11
.55

FCD
10 kN

11.55

17.32

Fig. 3.10(e)

74

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

Example 3.4. Determine the forces in the members of truss shown in Fig. 3.11(a).
30 kN

50 kN

40 kN

20 kN

4m

HA

A
4m

F
30 kN
4m

VA

Fig. 3.11(a)

Solution: Forces in horizontal direction = 0, gives,

HA = 20 kN

FAB

MA = 0
RE 8 + 50 4 + 40 8 + 20 4 + 30 4 = 0

RE = 90 kN

20

FAF

VA = 0, gives

Joint A:

VA + RE = 30 + 50 + 40 + 30
VA = 150 RE = 150 90 = 60 kN
V = 0 FAB = 60 kN (Comp.)
H = 0 FAF = 20 kN (Tensile)

60

Fig. 3.11(b)
FED

Joint E:
V = 0, gives, FED = 90 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives, FEF = 0
E

FEF = 0

Joint B: Noting that inclined member is at 45,

90

V = 0; gives,

Fig. 3.11(c)

FBF sin 45 30 + 60 = 0
or

FBF =

30
= 42.43 kN [Tensile]
sin 45

H = 0, gives
FBC + FBF cos 45 = 0
or

30 kN
FBC

B
45
45

FBF

FBC = 42.43 cos 45 = 30 kN [Comp.]

60

Fig. 3.11(d)

75

TRUSSES

V = 0, gives FCF = 50 kN [Comp.]

Joint C:

H = 0, gives

50 kN

30 FCD = 0

FCD = 30 kN [Comp.]

or

30

FCF

Joint D: Noting that DF is at 45 as shown in Fig. 3.11(f)

Fig. 3.11(e)

V = 0

40 kN

FDF cos 45 + 90 40 = 0
FDF =

or

FCD

50
= 70.71 kN [Tensile]
cos 45

30 kN

20 kN

D
45

Check

H = 0, gives

45

FDF cos 45 + 30 + 20 = 0 or FDF = 70.71 kN checked.

FDF

90 kN

Final result is shown in Fig. 3.11(g)

Fig. 3.11(f)

30

50
30

50

.4

20

42

60

40
30
1

.7

70

20

20

90

0
30

60

90

Fig. 3.11(g)

Example 3.5. Analyse the truss shown in Fig. 3.12(a).

Solution: All inclined members have the same inclination to
horizontal. Now, length of an inclined member is

4m

4
5

3
cos =
5

4m

sin =

32 + 42 = 5 m

HA

3m

F 3m

VA
Fig. 3.12(a)

20 kN

76

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

As soon as a joint is analysed the forces on the joint are marked on members [Fig. 3.12(b)]

25

kN

1 5 kN

HA

kN

2 0 kN

2 0 kN

25

RC

1 5 kN F 1 5 kN

VA

20 kN

Fig. 3.12(b)

Joint E:
FED

F ED

V = 0, gives
4
20 = 0
5
FED = 25 kN (Tension)

FEF FED

H = 0, gives
cos = 0

F EF

20 kN

3
Fig. 3.12(c)
= 15 kN (Comp.)
5
At this stage as no other joint is having only two unknowns, no further progress is possible. Let
us find the reactions at the supports considering the whole structure. Let the reaction be as shown
in Fig. 3.12(b).

FEF = 25

M A = 0, gives

RC 8 20 6 = 0
RC = 15 kN
V = 0, gives

VA = 20 kN
H = 0, gives

H A = RC = 15 kN
Joint A:

V = 0, gives

F AB

FAB VA = 0
FAB = 20 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives

FAF HA = 0
FAF = 15 kN (Comp.)

A
HA

F AF
VA

Fig. 3.12(d)

77

TRUSSES

Joint C:

H = 0, gives

FCB

3
RC = 0
5

RC

FCB = 15

5
= 25 kN (Comp.)
3

FCB

V = 0, gives

FCD

Fig. 3.12(e)

FCD = FCB sin

= 25

V = 0, gives

Joint B:
FBF

4
= 20 kN (Tension)
5
F BC

4
4
FBC
+ FAB = 0
5
5

FBF

4
4
= 25
20 = 0
5
5

FBF = 0

F AB

H = 0, gives

F BD

FBF

Fig. 3.12(f)

3
FBD 25 = 0
5

FBD = 15 kN (Tension)
Joint F:
V = 0

FFD = 0 (since FBF = 0)

Fig. 3.12(g)

Note: When three members are meeting at an unloaded joint and out of them two are collinear, then the force
in third member will be zero. Such situations are illustrated in Fig. 3.12(h) and (i).

Fig. 3.12(h) and (i)

78

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

Example 3.6. Find the forces in all the members of the truss shown in Fig. 3.13(a).
tan 1 =

Solution:

4
= 33.69
6

2 = tan 1
1
3 = tan

8 1 = 53.13
3 2
4 = 53.13
3

2= 3 =
sin =

4
3
and cos =
5
5
2 0 kN

2m
A

2m
B

2m
D

1 2 kN
F

3m

H
3

2m

C
E
G

Fig. 3.13(a)

Joint-by-joint analysis is carried out as given below and the joint forces are marked in Fig. 3.13(b).
Then nature of the force in the members is determined.
20 k N

12 k N
A

15 k N

B 15 k N

D 15 k N

15 k N

C O M P R E S S IO N

18

R A k .0 2 7
N 8
C

25 k N

18

.0
kN 27 8

18

.0
kN 278

RG

Fig. 3.13(b)

Joint H:
FHG

V = 0, gives
sin 3 = 20

T E N S IO N

79

TRUSSES

5
= 25 kN (Comp.)
4
H = 0, gives
cos 2 = 0

FHG = 20

FHF FHG

FHF = 25

3
= 15 kN (Tension)
5

M G = 0, gives

Now

RA 6 20 3 = 0
RA = 10 kN (Downword)
V = 0, gives
RG 10 12 20 = 0
RG = 42 kN

Joint A:

V = 0, gives

FAC sin 1 10 = 0
FAC = 18.0278 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives

FAB FAC cos 1 = 0

FAB = 15 kN (Tension)
Joint B:

V = 0, gives
FBC = 0
H = 0, gives

FBD = FBA = 15 kN (Tension)

Joint C: Forces normal to AC = 0, gives
FCD = 0 since FBC = 0
Forces parallel to CE = 0

FCE = FCA = 18.0278 (Comp.)

Joint D:

V = 0, gives
FDE = 0
H = 0, gives
FDF = FDB = 15 kN (Tension)

Joint E: Forces normal to CG = 0, gives

FEF = 0 and
Forces in the direction of CG = 0, gives
FEG = FCE = 18.0278 kN (Comp.)
Joint F:
V = 0, gives
FFG 12 = 0
FFG = 12 kN (Tension)

80

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

Example 3.7. Analyse the truss shown in Fig. 3.14(a). All the members are of 3 m length.
40 kN
B

30 kN
D

60 60

60 60

10 kN

60 60

3 3 3 = 9 cm

20 kN

Fig. 3.14(a)

Solution: Since all members are 3 m long, all triangles are equilateral and hence all inclined members
are at 60 to horizontal. Joint-by-joint analysis is carried out and the forces are represented in
Fig. 3.14(b). Then nature of the force is determined.
Joint G:
V = 0, gives
FGF sin 60 = 20
FGF = 23.0940 kN (Tension)
H = 0, gives
FGE FGE cos 60 = 0
FGE = 11.5470 kN (Comp.)
Joint F:
V = 0, gives
FFG sin 60 FGF sin 60 = 0
FFG = FGF = 23.0940 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives
FFD + 10 FGF cos 60 FFE cos 60 = 0
FFD = 13.0940 kN (Tension)
Now, without finding reaction we cannot proceed. Hence, consider equilibrium of the entire truss.

094
23.

337
9 .4

.7 5
38

VA

11.5 47
E
RE

C O M P R E S S IO N

47

1.05 66

10 kN

.0 9

.0 7

33
8.37 71

HA

23

44

9 .4

43

40 kN
30 kN
B
D 13 .0 94
13 .6 60 3

G
20 kN

T E N SIO N

Fig. 3.14(b)

MA = 0

RE 6 + 10 3 sin 60 40 1.5 30 4.5 20 9 = 0

RE = 58.1699 kN

81

TRUSSES

V = 0, gives

VA = 40 + 30 + 20 RE = 31.8301 kN
H = 0, gives

HA = 10 kN
Joint A:

V = 0, gives

FAB sin 60 31.8301 = 0

FAB = 36.7543 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives

FAC FAB cos 60 + 10 = 0

FAC = 8.3771 kN (Tension)
Joint B:

V = 0, gives

FBC sin 60 + FAB sin 60 40 = 0

FBC = 9.4337 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives

FBD + FBC cos 60 FBA cos 60 = 0

FBD = 13.6603 kN (Comp.)
Joint C:

V = 0, gives

FCD sin 60 FBC sin 60 = 0

FCD = FBC = 9.4337 kN (Tension)
H = 0, gives

FCE + FAC FCD cos 60 FBC cos 60 = 0

FCE = 2 9.4337
Joint D:

1
8.3771 = 1.0566 kN (Comp.)
2

V = 0, gives

FDE sin 60 FCD sin 60 30 = 0

FDE = 44.0747 kN (Comp.)
3.6 METHOD OF SECTION

In the method of section, after determining the reactions, a section line is drawn passing through not
more than three members in which forces are not known such that the frame is cut into two separate
parts. Each part should be in equilibrium under the action of loads, reactions and forces in the
members that are cut by the section line. Equilibrium of any one of these two parts is considered
and the unknown forces in the members cut by the section line are determined.
The system of forces acting on either part of truss constitutes a non-concurrent force system. Since
there are only three independent equation of equilibrium, there should be only three unknown forces.
Hence, in this method it is an essential condition that the section line should pass through not more
than three members in which forces are not known and it should separate the frame into two parts.

82

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

Thus, the method of section is the application of nonconcurrent force system analysis whereas
the method of joints, described in previous article was the application of analysis of concurrent force
system.
Under the following two conditions the method of section is preferred over the method of joints:
(1) In a large truss in which forces in only few members are required;
(2) In the situation where the method of joints fails to start/proceed with analysis.
The method of section is illustrated with the examples 3.8 to 3.11. Examples 3.8 and 3.9 are the
cases in which method of section is advantageous since forces in only few members are required.
Examples 3.10 and 3.11 are the cases in which method of joints fails to start/proceed to get the
solution. In practice the frames may be analysed partly by method of section and partly by method
of joints as illustrated in example 3.11.
Example 3.8. Determine the forces in the members FH, HG and GI in the truss shown in Fig. 3.15(a).
Each load is 10 kN and all triangles are equilateral with sides 4 m.
10 kN 10 kN

B
A

10 kN

10 kN

F A

10 kN 10 kN

10 kN

K
AI
7 4 = 28 m

Fig. 3.15(a)

Solution: Due to symmetry,

1
10 7 = 35 kN
2
Take section (A)(A), which cuts the members FH, GH and GI and separates the truss into two
parts. Consider the equilibrium of left hand side part as shown in Fig. 3.15(b) (Prefer part in which
number of forces are less).

R A = R0 =

1 0 kN

1 0 kN

1 0 kN

FFH
6 0 F G H
6 0
FGI
G

3 5 kN

Fig. 3.15(b)

MG = 0, gives
FFH 4 sin 60 35 12 + 10 10 + 10 6 + 10 2 = 0
FFH = 69.2820 kN (Comp.)
V = 0, gives
FGH sin 60 + 10 + 10 + 10 35 = 0
FGH = 5.7735 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives

83

TRUSSES

FGI FFH FGH cos 60 = 0

FGI = 69.2820 + 5.7735 cos 60
= 72.1688 kN (Tension)
Example 3.9. Find the magnitude and nature of the forces in the members U3U4, L3L4 and U4L3
of the loaded truss shown in Fig. 3.16(a).
Solution: To determine reactions, consider equilibrium equations.

L0

U2

L1

U4
U5

L2

L3

L4

6m
8m
9m

U1

U3

L6

L5

200 kN 200 kN 150 kN 100 kN 100 kN

6 6 = 36

R1

R2

Fig. 3.16(a)

Now,

M LO = 0, gives

R2 36 200 6 200 12 150 18 100 24 100 30 = 0

R2 = 325 kN
V = 0, gives
R1 = 200 + 200 + 150 + 100 + 100 325 = 425 kN
Take the section (1)(1) and consider the right hand side part.
F U 3U 4

1 U
4
U5

FU

4 L3

2
L 3 FL L
3 4

L4

L5

1 00 kN 1 00 kN

Fig. 3.16(b)

Now,

U3U4 = 12 + 62 = 6. 0828
1
= 0.1644
6. 0828
6
= 0.9864
cos l =
6. 0828

sin l =

L6
R2

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MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

L3U4 =

62 + 82 = 10

sin 2 = 0.6 cos 2 = 0.8

M U 4 = 0, gives

8 325 12 + 100 6 = 0

FL

3L4

FL

3 L4

= 412.5 kN (Tension)

ML = 0, gives
3

FU

4U3

cos 1 9 + 100 6 + 100 12 325 18 = 0

FU

4U3

= 456.2072 kN (Comp.)

H = 0

FU

4U3

sin 2 FU

4U3

FU

4U3

cos 1 + FL

= 0

4L3

456. 2072 0. 9864 412. 5

0. 6

= 62.5 kN (Tension)
Example 3.10. Find the forces in the members (1), (2) and (3) of French truss shown in Fig. 3.17(a).
20 kN
A

20 kN
a

20 kN
a

20 kN
a

20 kN
20 kN

20 kN

a
3

30

3m

3m

6m

3m

18 m
A
Fig. 3.17(a)

Solution: Due to symmetry

R A = RB =
Now

1
20 7 = 70 kN
2
9

AC = 4 a = cos 30
a = 2.5981 m.

3m

85

TRUSSES

20 kN
20 kN

F1

20 kN

F2

F3

R A = 70 kN

Fig. 3.17(b)

Take Section (A)(A) and consider the equilibrium of left hand side part of the French Truss
shown in Fig. 3.17(b).
Drop perpendicular CE on AB.
Now
CE = 9 tan 30 and DE = 3 m

9 tan 30
1
= 3
=
3
3

tan =

= 60

M A = 0, gives

F2 sin 60 6 20 2.5981 cos 30 20 2 2.5981 cos 30 20 3 2.5981 cos 30 = 0

(1 + 2 + 3)
since sin 60 = cos 30
F2 = 20 2.5981
6
F2 = 51.9615 kN (Tension)
V = 0, gives
F1 sin 30 70 + 20 + 20 + 20 51.9615 sin 60 = 0
F1 = 110 kN (Comp.)
H = 0, gives
F3 + F2 cos 60 F1 cos 30 = 0
F3 = 69.2820 (Tension)
Note: In this problem, the method of joints cannot give complete solution.

Example 3.11. Find the forces in all the members of the truss shown in Fig. 3.18(a).
30 kN
1
C

30 kN a

30 kN
15

15 kN
A

B
30

G D

15 kN

45
1H
10 m

Fig. 3.18(a)

86

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

Solution: Due to symmetry, the reactions are equal.

R A = RE =

1
Total load
2

1
(15 + 30 + 30 + 30 + 15) = 60 kN
2

=
Drop perpendicular CH on AF.

In ACH , ACH = 45
FC is inclined at 30 to vertical i.e., 60 to horizontal and CH = 5 m
It is not possible to find a joint where there are only two unknowns. Hence, consider section
(1)(1).
For left hand side part of the frame:
M C = 0, gives

FAE 5 60 5 + 15 5 + 30 2.5 = 0

FAE = 30 kN (Tension)
Assuming the directions for FFC and FBC as shown in Fig. 3.18(b)
V = 0, gives
FFC sin 60 FBC sin 45 + 60 15 30 = 0
H = 0, gives

...(i)

FFC cos 60 FBC cos 45 + FAE = 0

FFC

1
1
FBC
+ 30 = 0
2
2

FFC = FBC

...(ii)

2 60
30 kN

FBC

F FC

15 kN

F
30

15

45
FAE

60 kN

Fig. 3.18(b)

Substituting this value of FFC in (1), we get

( FBC

2 60) sin 60 FBC

FBC

1
+ 15 = 0
2

2 sin 60

= 60 sin 60 15

FBC = 71.40 kN (Comp.)

87

TRUSSES

FFC = 71.4042

2 60

= 40.98 kN (Tension)
Assumed directions of FBC and FFC are correct.
Therefore, FBC is in compression and FFC is in tension.
Now we can proceed with method of joints to find the forces in other members. Since it is a
symmetric truss, analysis of half the truss is sufficient. Other values may be written down by making
use of symmetry.
Joint B:
forces normal to AC = 0, gives
FBF 30 cos 45 = 0
FBF = 21.21 kN (Comp.)
forces parallel to AC = 0, gives
FAB FBC 30 sin 45 = 0
FAB = 71.40 + 21.21
= 92.61 kN (Comp)
Joint A:
V = 0, gives
FAF sin 30 FAB sin 45 15 + 60 = 0
FAF = 40.98 kN (Tension)
The results are tabulated below:
Members

Force in kN

AB and ED

92.61

BC and DC

71.40

BF and DG

21.21

AF and EG

+ 40.98

FC and GC

+ 40.98

AE

+ 30.00
+ means tension and means compression

IMPORTANT FORMULA

1. In a perfect truss
where

m = 2j 3
m = number of members
j = number of joints.
THEORY QUESTIONS

1. Bring out the differences among perfect, deficient and redundant trusses.
2. State the assumptions made in the analysis of pin jointed trusses.
3. How method of joint differs from the method of section in the analysis of pin jointed trusses?

88

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

PROBLEMS FOR EXERCISE

1 to 17: Determine the forces in all the members of the trusses shown in Fig. 3.19 to 3.35. Indicate
the nature of forces using the convention tension as +ve and compression as ve.
1.
6m

6m

20 kN

4m
F

3m

6m

Fig. 3.19 (Prob. 1)

[Ans. FAB = +67.5 kN; FBC = +15 kN; FCD = 25 kN; FDE = 30 kN;
FEF = 105 kN; FAE = +62.5 kN; FBE = 62.5 kN; FBD = +25 kN]
2.
A
20 kN

4m

3m

3m

3m

20 kN

Fig. 3.20 (Prob. 2)

[Ans. FAB = +82.0738 kN; FBC = +73.866 kN; FCD = 49.2443 kN; FDE = 45 kN;
FEF = 45 kN; FFG = 67.5 kN; FBG = 10.0 kN; FFC = +24.622 kN; FCE = 0; FBF = 10 kN]
3.
A
C
E
G

30
F
D

100 kN

3m

3m

3m

Fig. 3.21 (Prob. 3)

89

TRUSSES

[Ans. FAC = FCE = FEG = +193.1852 kN; FBD = FDE = FFG = 193.1852 kN; all others
are zero members]
4.
E
200 kN

2m
C

2m
B

4m

4m

Fig. 3.22 (Prob. 4)

[Ans. F EC = +447.2136 kN; FCA = +400 kN; FAB = 447.2136 kN; FBD = 400 kN;
F
FCD = 0; FCB = 200 kN]
D 3m B
5. [Ans. FDB = FBA = +5.7735 kN; FBC = FDE = 5.7738 kN;
90
FAC = 2.8868 kN; FCE = 14.4338 kN; FDC = +17.3205 kN;
3m
3m
3m
FDF = +20.0 kN]
3m
6. [Ans. FAB = 30 kN; FAC = 160 kN; FBC = +50 kN;
3m
3m
A
E
C
F BD = 200 kN; F CD = 50 kN; F CE = 120 kN;
5 kN
10 kN
FDF = 266.67 kN; FDE = +83.33 kN]
Fig. 3.23 (Prob. 5)
160 kN

160 kN

30 kN

4m

7. [Ans. FAB = 200 kN; FAD = 100 kN; FBC = FCE = 0;

20 kN

FBD = 100 2 kN; FBF = 100 2 kN; FDE = 100 kN;

F DG = 0; F EF = +100 kN; F EH = 100 2 kN;

FEG = +100 2 kN; FGH = +100 kN]

4m

100 kN
2m

2m
B

200 kN A

C
2m

Fig. 3.25 (Prob. 7)

3m

Fig. 3.24 (Prob. 6)

2m

90

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

8. [Ans. FBD = 2 2 kN; FBA = +3 kN; FAC = +3 2 kN; FAD = 3 kN; FDC = 2 kN;
FDF = 5 kN; FCF = 2 kN; FCE = +6 kN; FFE = + 1 kN; FFH = 4kN; FEH = 2 kN;
FEG = +5 kN; FGH = +1 kN]
A

9. [Ans. FAC = 100 5 kN; FAB = +200 kN; FBD = +200 kN;

2 kN

2m

FBC = 100 kN; FCD = + 50 5 kN; FCE = 150 5 kN; FDE

= +35.0 kN; FDF = 300 2 kN; FEF = 300 kN]

10. [Ans. FAB = + 5 2 kN; FAC = 5 kN; FBC = 5 kN;

2m

FBD = +5 kN; FCD = +15 2 kN; FCE = 20 kN;

FDE = 15 kN; FDF = +20 2 kN; FEH = 15 kN;

2m

FEF = 20 kN; FFG = + 30 2 kN; FFH = +10 2 kN]

H
2m

D
5m

100 kN
5m

5m

5m

Fig. 3.27 (Prob. 9)

D

2m
F
E

C
10 kN

2m
G

A
5 kN

H
2m

2m

2m

2m

Fig. 3.28 (Prob. 10)

40 kN
45

30 kN

45

2m
A
2m

2m

Fig. 3.26 (Prob. 8)

100 kN
A

E
2m

Fig. 3.29 (Prob. 11)

1 kN

91

TRUSSES
2 0 kN

11. [Ans. FAB = 15 kN; FAC = +12 2 kN; FBD = 27. 5 2

kN; F BC = 12.5 2 kN; FCE = 0; FCD = +25 kN;

2m

2 0 kN
2m

2 0 kN

B
FED = 27. 5 2 kN]
60
30
E
A
C
12. [Ans. FAB = 17.32 kN; FAC = +5 kN; FBC = 20 kN;
F BD = 17.32 kN; F CD = +20 kN; FCE = 15 kN;
Fig. 3.30 (Prob. 12)
FDE = 30 kN]
13. [Ans. FAB = 60 kN; FAC = +51.96 kN; FBC = 20 kN; FBD = 40 kN; FCD = +40 kN; symmetry]

20 kN
D

20 kN

20 kN

10 kN

E
30

30
C

3m

10 kN

30

3m

Fig. 3.31 (Prob. 13)

14. [Ans. F AC = 4.5 13 kN; F AB = +13.5 kN; F BC = +6 kN; FBD = +13.5 kN; F CD
= 0. 5 13 kN; FCE = 4 10 kN; FDE = 8 kN]
E
C
A

1m

B
6 kN

6 kN

6 kN

2m
H

3 4 = 12 m

Fig. 3.32 (Prob. 14)

15. [Ans. FAB = +10 13 kN; FAC = 20 kN; FCB = 48.75 kN; FCE = 20 kN; FCD = 7.5 kN;
FBE = +6. 25 13 kN; FDE = 18.75 kN; FDF = 3. 75 13 kN; FFE = 7.5 kN]
3 0 kN
B

1 5 kN

3m
C

A
2m

E
2m

F
2m

3 0 kN

Fig. 3.33 (Prob. 15)

92

MECHANICS OF SOLIDS

16. [Ans. FAB = 16.91 kN; FAF = +31.55 kN; FBF = +23.91 kN; FBD = 23.91 kN; FBC = +40 kN;
FCD = 40 kN; FDE = 63.1 kN; FDF = +23.91 kN; FEF = +31.55 kN]
C

4 0 kN

6 0

6 0

6 0

3m

6 0

6 0

3m

4 0 kN

Fig. 3.34 (Prob. 16)

17. [Ans. FAC = 67.48 kN; FAB = +53.99 kN; FBC = +10 kN; FCD = 8.33 kN; FCE = 59.15 kN;
F EF = 24.5 kN; F ED = +52.81 kN; F FD = +47.21 kN; F FG = 34.64 kN;
FDG = +47.32 kN]
E

1.5 m

F
D

3 0

3m

3m

3 0 kN

B
1 0 kN
2m

3m

Fig. 3.35 (Prob. 17)

18. Find the force in the member FG of the triangular Howe truss shown in Fig. 3.36.
1

4 kN
F

8 kN

8 kN

A
C
2m

4.5 m

2m

6 kN 6 kN

6 kN

H
2m

4 kN

K
2m

6 kN

2m

6 kN

1
Fig. 3.36

(Hint: Take section (1)(1) and find force in FD. Then analyse joint F)

[Ans. +28 kN]

93

TRUSSES

19. Determine the forces in the members AB, AC, DF and CE of the scissors truss shown in
Fig. 3.37.
W
1

W
E

J
3m

3m

3m

3m

3m

3m

Fig. 3.37

(Hint: Find reaction RA and analyse joint A. Take section (1)(1) and find force in DF and CE)
[Ans. FAB = 6.25 W; FAC = 4.51 W; FDF = 3.75 W; FCE = +2.75 W]
20. Find the force in member KL of the French truss shown in Fig. 3.38.
2 0 kN
2 0 kN
A
2 0 kN
D
2 0 kN C

B
A

1 5 kN
1 5 kN
F
1 5 kN

30
3m

30

3m

6m

AN

3m

3m

3 6 = 18 m

Fig. 3.38

(Hint: Take section (A)(A) and find FLE and FDE. From joint D find FDL. Then analyse joint
L to get FKL)
[Ans. +41.96 kN]