6–30.

Determine the force in members EC, EF, and FC of the bridge truss and state if10 ft 4 ft 4 ft 10 ft
these members are in tension or compression. G F E

10 ft

A D
B C

SOLUTION 600 lb
800 lb
1. Draw the FBD
2. Calculate the reaction support forces:
Apply the moment at point A (more unknown forces):

+ ∑MA = 0 ⇒ ND (28) - 600(10) - 800(18) = 0 ND = 728.57 lb

3. We will do the cut through the members which we need

To determine its forces. The cut should be
between F and E, F and C, and B and C.

4. We will consider the right portion because it is easier to

calculate directly FE, FC and BE from this side.

5. Apply moment on point C yield:

6. + ∑MC = 0 ⇒ 728..57 (10) - FEF = 0 ⇒

FEF = 729 lb (C)
7. We will use the result of FEF in joint E to calculate FDE and
FEC (Fig c).
+ ∑Fx = 0; ⇒ 728.57 - FDE cos 45° = 0 ⇒ FDE = 1030.36 lb (C)

+ ∑Fy = 0; ⇒ 1030.36 sin 45° - FEC = 0 ⇒

FCE = 728.57 lb(T) = 729 lb (T)

Back to point C:

+ ∑Fy = 0; ⇒ FFC 10 +728.57-800 ⇒

�
102 +42

FFC = 76.93 lb (T).