Theory of Structures 1

1.0 Analysis of Statically Determinate Structures

Contents:
1.1 Idealized Structures
1.2 Principle of Superposition
1.3 Equations of Equilibrium
1.4 Determinacy and Stability
1.5 Application of the Equation of Equilibrium

1.1 Idealized Structures

 To develop the ability to model or idealize a structure so that the structural engineer
can perform a practical force analysis of the members.
 Support connections
 Pin connection (allows some freedom for slight rotation)
 Roller support (allows some freedom for slight rotation)
 Fixe joint (allows no relative rotation)

Examples of support connections

Typical “pin-supported” connection
(metal)

Typical “fixed-supported” connection

(metal)

Typical “roller-support” connection

(concrete)

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 Typical “fixed-supported” connection
(concrete)

Examples of idealized structures

(i) Pin support Pin-connected joint

(ii) Fixed support Fixed-connection joint

(iii) Torsional spring support Torsional spring joint

 Support connections
 In reality, all connections exhibit some stiffness toward joint rotations owing
to friction & metal behavior.
 If k = 0, the joint is pin, and k → ∞, the joint is fixed.
 When selecting the model for each support, the engineer must be aware of
how the assumptions will affect the actual performance.
 The analysis of the loadings should give results that closely approximate the
actual loadings.
 In reality, all supports actually exert distributed surface loads on their
contacting members.

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Table: Supports for Coplanar structures
Type of Idealized Symbol Reaction Number of Unknowns
Connection
Light cable One unknown. The
reaction is a force that
acts in the direction of
Weightless link the cable or link.

Rollers One unknown. The

reaction is a force that
acts perpendicular to the
surface at the point of
contact.
Rocker

Smooth contacting One unknown. The

surface reaction is a force that
acts perpendicular to the
surface at the point of
contact.
Smooth pin- One unknown. The
connected collar reaction is a force that
acts perpendicular to the
surface at the point of
contact.
Smooth pin or hinge Two unknowns. The
reactions are two force
components.
Slider Two unknowns. The
reactions are a force and
a moment.

Fixed-connected
collar

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Fixed support Three unknown. The
reactions are the
moment and the two
force components.

 Idealized structure (example 1)

 Consider the jib crane & trolley, we neglect the thickness of the 2 main
member & will assume that the joint at B is fabricated to be rigid.
 The support at A can be modeled as a fixed support.

Actual structure Idealized structure

 Idealized structure (example 2)

 Consider the framing used to support a typical floor slab in a building.
 The slab is supported by floor joists located at even intervals.
 These are in turn supported by 2 side girders AB & CD

Actual structure
 For analysis, it is reasonable to assume that the joints are pin and/or roller
connected to girders & the girders are pin and/or roller connected to columns.

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 Idealized framing plan
The “lines” representing the joists do not touch the girders.
The “lines” of the girders do not touch the columns.

 Idealized structure (example 3)

 If the framing plan is intended to represent fixed-connected members, such
as those are welded instead of simple bolted connections, then the lines for
the beams or girders would touch the columns.
Fixed-connected beam Idealized beam

 Idealized structure – Tributary Loadings

 There are 2 ways in which the load on surfaces is transmitted to various
structural elements
(i) 1-way system
(ii) 2-way system
 Tributary loadings
(i) 1-way system (L2/L1 > 2)

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Idealized framing plan

Idealized beam Idealized girder

(ii) 2-way system (L2/L1 < 2)

Idealized framing plan Idealized beam

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 2-way system (example)
Idealized framing plan Idealized beam

Idealized beam

 Idealized structure (example 1)

The floor of a classroom is to be supported by the bar joists as shown. Each joist is 4.5
m long and they are spaced 0.75 m on centers.
The floor itself is to be made from lightweight concrete that is 100 mm thick (self-
weight of lightweight concrete = 1500kg/m3). Neglect the weight of the joists and the
corrugated metal deck, and determine the load that acts along each joist.

Solution:
Dead load, weight of concrete slab = (100)(0.015) = 1.50 kN⁄m2
Live load = 1.92 kN⁄m2
Total load = 3.42 kN⁄m2
𝐿𝐿1 = 0.75m; 𝐿𝐿2 = 4.5m
𝐿𝐿2
�𝐿𝐿 > 2 → 1-way slab
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Uniform load along its length, 𝑤𝑤 = 3.42 kN⁄m2 (0.75m) = 2.57 kN⁄m

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 Idealized structure (example 2)
The flat roof of the steel-frame building intended to support a total load of 2kN/m2 over
its surface. Determine the roof load within region ABCD that is transmitted to beams
BC and DC.

Solution:
𝐿𝐿2
In this case 𝐿𝐿2 = 7m and 𝐿𝐿1 = 4m. Since �𝐿𝐿 = 1.75 < 2, this is two-way slab
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action. The tributary loading along each edge beam is shown in figure, where the lighter
shaded trapezoidal area (1) of loading is transmitted to member BC. The peak intensity
of this loading is (2 kN⁄m2 )(2m) = 4 kN⁄m.

This process of tributary load transmission should also be calculated for the area (2) to
the right of BC shown in figure, and this load should also be placed on BC.

A triangular distributed loading (3) acts on member DC. It also has a maximum intensity
of (2 kN⁄m2 )(2m) = 4 kN⁄m.

2.2 Principle of Superposition

 The total disp. or internal loadings (stress) at a point in a structure subjected to
several external loadings can be determined by adding together the displacements
or internal loadings (stress) caused by each of the external loads acting separately.
 Linear relationship exist among loads, stresses & displacements.
 2 requirements for the principle to apply:
 Material must behave in a linear-elastic manner, Hooke’s Law is valid.
 The geometry of the structure must not undergo significant change when the
loads are applied, small displacement theory.

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2.3 Equation of equilibrium
 For equilibrium
 ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0 ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0 ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑧𝑧 = 0
 ∑ 𝑀𝑀𝑥𝑥 = 0 ∑ 𝑀𝑀𝑦𝑦 = 0 ∑ 𝑀𝑀𝑧𝑧 = 0
 For most structures, it can be reduced to:
 ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0
 ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0
 ∑ 𝑀𝑀0 = 0

2.4 Determinacy and Stability

 Determinacy
 Equilibrium equations provide both the necessary and sufficient conditions
for equilibrium
 All forces can be determined strictly from these equations
 No. of unknown forces > equilibrium equation => statically indeterminate
 No. of unknown forces = equilibrium equations => statically determinate
 This can be determined using free body diagrams
 For a coplanar structure
(i) 𝑟𝑟 = 3𝑛𝑛, statically determinate
(ii) 𝑟𝑟 > 3𝑛𝑛, statically indeterminate
where r = no. of reactions; n = no. of parts
degree of indeterminacy = 𝑟𝑟 − 3𝑛𝑛
 The additional equations needed to solve for the unknown equations are
obtained as compatibility equations

Determinacy (example 1)
Classify each of the beams as statically determinate or statically indeterminate. If
statically indeterminate, report the number of degrees of indeterminacy. The beams are
subjected to external loadings that are assumed to be known and can act anywhere on
the beams.

𝑟𝑟 = 3, 𝑛𝑛 = 1 (statically determinate)

𝑟𝑟 = 5, 𝑛𝑛 = 1 (statically indeterminate to the second degree)

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Compound beams – composed of pin-connected members which must be disassembled.
The unknown reactive forces acting between each member must be in equal but
opposite pairs.

𝑟𝑟 = 6, 𝑛𝑛 = 2 (statically determinate)

𝑟𝑟 = 10, 𝑛𝑛 = 3 (statically indeterminate to the first degree)

 Determinacy (example 2)
Classify each of the pin-connected structures as statically determinate or statically
indeterminate. If statically indeterminate, report the number of degrees of
indeterminacy. The structures are subjected to arbitrary external loadings that are
assumed to be known and can act anywhere on the structures.

𝑟𝑟 = 7, 𝑛𝑛 = 2 (statically indeterminate to the first degree)

𝑟𝑟 = 9, 𝑛𝑛 = 3 (statically determinate)

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𝑟𝑟 = 10, 𝑛𝑛 = 2 (statically indeterminate to the fourth degree)

𝑟𝑟 = 9, 𝑛𝑛 = 3 (statically determinate)

Determinacy (example 3)
Classify each of the frames shown as statically determinate or statically indeterminate.
If statically indeterminate, report the number of degrees of indeterminacy.
 Frame structures consists of members that are connected by rigid joints.
 Sometimes the members form internal loops
 Here ABCD forms a closed loop.
 Use the method of sections and “cut” the loop apart.
 Only one section through the loop is required

𝑟𝑟 = 9, 𝑛𝑛 = 2 (statically indeterminate to the third degree)

𝑟𝑟 = 18, 𝑛𝑛 = 3 (statically indeterminate to the ninth degree)

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𝑟𝑟 = 9, 𝑛𝑛 = 1 (statically indeterminate to the sixth degree)
This frame has no closed loop.

𝑟𝑟 = 18, 𝑛𝑛 = 4 (statically indeterminate to the sixth degree)

 Stability
 To ensure equilibrium of a structure or its members:
(i) Must satisfy equations of equilibrium
(ii) Members must be properly held or constrained by their supports

 Partial constraints
 Fewer reactive forces than equations of equilibrium (r < 3n)
 ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0 will not be satisfied.
 Member will be unstable.

 Improper constraints
 In some cases, unknown forces may equal equations of equilibrium in number
 However, instability or movement of structure could still occur if support
reactions are concurrent at a point

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 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 ≠ 0
 Rotation about O will take place
 Similarly instability can occur if all reactive forces are parallel

 Stability
 For a coplanar structure,
(i) 𝑟𝑟 < 3𝑛𝑛, unstable
(ii) 𝑟𝑟 ≥ 3𝑛𝑛, unstable if member reactions are concurrent or parallel
Where r = no. of reactions; n = no. of parts

 Determinacy (example 4)
Classify each of the structures as stable or unstable. The structures are subjected to
arbitrary external loads that are assumed to be known.

1. no. of reactions = no. of equilibrium equations

2. The reactions are non-concurrent and non-parallel.
Stable, statically determine

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1. no. of reactions = no. of equilibrium equations
2. The reactions are concurrent.
Unstable

1. no. of reactions = no. of equilibrium equations

2. The reactions are parallel.
Unstable

1. r = 7, no. of equilibrium equations = 9

Unstable

1.5 Application of the equations of equilibrium

 Consider 3-member frame subjected to loads P1 & P2
 There are 9 unknowns in total.
 9 equations of equilibrium can be written, 3 for each member.
 It is statically determinate.

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Example 1
Determine the reactions on the beam as shown.

∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0; 𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 − 270 cos 60° = 0

𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 = 135kN
With anti-clockwise moments in the +ve direction,
∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐴𝐴 = 0; −270 sin 60° (3) + 270 cos 60° (0.3) + 𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 (4.2) − 67.5 = 0
𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 = 173.4kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0; −270 sin 60° + 173.4 + 𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 = 0
𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 = 60.4kN

Example 2
The compound beam shown is fixed at A. Determine the reactions at A, B, and C.
Assume that the connection at B is a pin and C is a roller.

Segment BC:
With anti-clockwise moments in the +ve direction,
∑ 𝑀𝑀𝑐𝑐 = 0 ; −8 + 𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 (4.5) = 0 → 𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 = 1.78kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0; −1.78 + 𝐶𝐶𝑦𝑦 = 0 → 𝐶𝐶𝑦𝑦 = 1.78𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0; 𝐵𝐵𝑥𝑥 = 0
Segment AB:
With anti-clockwise moments in the +ve direction,
∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐴𝐴 = 0; 𝑀𝑀𝐴𝐴 − 36(3) + (1.78)(6) = 0 → 𝑀𝑀𝐴𝐴 = 97.3kNm
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0; 𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 − 36 + 1.78 = 0 → 𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 = 34.2kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0; 𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 = 0

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Example 3
Determine the horizontal and vertical components of reaction at the pins A, B and C of
the two-member frame.

Applying the six equations of equilibrium in the following sequence allows a direct
solution for each of the six unknown.
Member BC:
∑ 𝑀𝑀𝑐𝑐 = 0; −𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 (2) + 6(1) = 0 → 𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 = 3kN
Member AB:
∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐴𝐴 = 0; −8(2) − 3(2) + 𝐵𝐵𝑥𝑥 (1.5) = 0 → 𝐵𝐵𝑥𝑥 = 14.7kN
3
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0; 𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 + (8) − 14.7 = 0 → 𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 = 9.87kN
5

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∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0; 𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 − (8) − 3 = 0 → 𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 = 9.40kN
5

Member BC:
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0; 14.7 − 𝐶𝐶𝑥𝑥 = 0 → 𝐶𝐶𝑥𝑥 = 14.7kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0; 3 − 6 + 𝐶𝐶𝑦𝑦 = 0 → 𝐶𝐶𝑦𝑦 = 3kN

Example 4
The side of the building is subjected to a wind loading that creates a uniform normal
pressure of 15 kPa on the windward side and a suction pressure of 5 kPa on the leeward
side. Determine the horizontal and vertical components of reaction at the pin
connections A, B, and C of the supporting gable arch.

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Since the loading is evenly distributed, the central gable arch supports a loading acting
on the walls & roof of the dark-shaded tributary area. This represents a uniform
distributed load of (15 kN⁄m2 )(4m) = 60 kN⁄m on the windward side and
(5 kN⁄m2 )(4m) = 20 kN⁄m on the suction side.

Entire Frame:

With anti-clockwise moments in the +ve direction,

∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐴𝐴 = 0;

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−(180 + 60)(1.5) − (254.6 + 84.9) cos 45° (4.5) − (254.6 sin 45° )(1.5)
+ (84.9 sin 45° )(4.5) + 𝐶𝐶𝑦𝑦 (6) = 0
𝐶𝐶𝑦𝑦 = 240.0kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0;
−𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 − 254.6 sin 45° + 84.9 sin 45° + 240.0 = 0
𝐴𝐴𝑦𝑦 = 120.0kN

Member AB:

With anti-clockwise moments in the +ve direction,

∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐵𝐵 = 0;
−𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 (6) + 120.0(3) + 180(4.5) + 254.6(2.12) = 0
𝐴𝐴𝑥𝑥 = 285.0kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0;
−285.0 + 180 + 254.6 cos 45° − 𝐵𝐵𝑥𝑥 = 0
𝐵𝐵𝑥𝑥 = 75.0kN
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0;
−120.0 − 254.6 sin 45° + 𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 = 0
𝐵𝐵𝑦𝑦 = 300.0kN

Member BC:
∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑥𝑥 = 0;
−𝐶𝐶𝑥𝑥 + 60 + 84.9 cos 45° + 75.0 = 0
𝐶𝐶𝑥𝑥 = 195.0kN

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