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Truss Deflection PDF
Truss Deflection PDF
=
2.00
=
2.00 (L/240)
1.00
Total Deflection
5.00
Live loads tend to be conservative and in most cases the truss only sees a small percentage of this
load for a short period of time, but dead loads often exist at their full design load levels. On our 400 example, considering no live load, the long-term deflection could easily be 3. With live load
present, it would be greater than 3.
Three inches in forty feet is most likely noticeable and could be the source for complaints about your
product. By closer control in deflection sensitive applications, you may prevent some undesirable
situations from occurring.
Differential deflection can also be a problem. Differential deflection is when one point moves with
respect to another. For example, if you have a flat bottom chord truss next to a scissor truss, the flat
bottom chord truss may only deflect a small amount while the less stiff scissor truss deflects much
more. This differential in deflection may result in a noticeable sag at the peak as you sight down the
ridge line.
Horizontal deflection of scissor trusses may also cause problems if not carefully monitored. The Truss
Plate Institutes Design Specification says the following about horizontal movement:
In lieu of specific provisions for lateral movement of trusses and supports,
total horizontal deflection at the reactions for the design of trusses shall be
limited to 1.25 due to total load and 0.75 due to live load. The building
designer shall design the supporting structure and truss to wall connection
accordingly.
Again, in certain deflection sensitive applications, you may need to allow less horizontal movement or
at least make it clear to your customer that this can occur.
Structurally adequate, code-conforming truss designs may not always satisfy your client. You may
want to consider more conservative deflection limits for certain applications. Your truss design
software will provide you with the magnitude of deflection, and more conservative span to deflection
ratios can be met when necessary. By staying aware of truss deflection magnitudes and of how they
relate to the end of the structure, you will be better able to satisfy the needs of your clients.