Chapter 2

ANALYSIS OF STATICALLY
CHAPTER 2 DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS

CHAPTER 2 DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS
At the end of this topic, student should be able to:
1. Classify the type of plane truss (PLO1, C1)

2. Calculate internal force of members using the method of joints.
(PLO1, C3)
3. Identify zero-force members in a truss. (PLO1, C2)
4. Calculate internal force of members using the method of sections
CHAPTER 2
(PLO1, C3)
5. Calculate internal force using inspection method. (PLO1, C3)
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS 2.1
A truss by definition is an assembly of straight members connected at their

ends by flexible connections to form a rigid triangular configurations.
Modern trusses are constructed by connecting members, which usually
consists of structural steel or aluminum shapes or wood struts, to gusset
plates by bolted or welded connections.
If all members of a truss and the applied loads lie in a single plane, the truss
is called a plane truss.
CHAPTER 2
gusset plate
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Types of Truss 2.2
Some common configurations of bridge trusses.
CHAPTER 2
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Types of Truss 2.2
Some common configurations of roof trusses.
CHAPTER 2
General truss classification:
Simple Truss
Compound Truss
Complex Truss
CHAPTER 2
Simple Truss 2.3
The simplest form of

rigid and stable truss is a
triangle.
By adding two elements and a joint/ node to the basic

triangle, trusses of various configuration can be form .
CHAPTER 2
Trusses constructed using this

procedure is called simple truss.
Compound Truss 2.3
A compound truss is formed by connecting

two or more simple trusses.
CHAPTER 2
Two simple trusses are connected by a

common joint C and a member BE.
Compound Truss 2.3
A compound truss is
formed by connecting
two or more simple
trusses.
CHAPTER 2
Two simple trusses ABC and DEF

is connected by members CD, BF
and BD to form a compound truss.
Complex Truss 2.3
A complex truss uses a general layout of members

different from that used in simple and compound trusses.
It often incorporates overlapping

members as shown.
CHAPTER 2
Complex truss due to its complexity will not be covered in this module.
Internal Force in a truss member
Basically, the force that No shear

acts on a member in a
simple truss is either
axial compression or
tension.
Tension No moment
CHAPTER 2
Compression
No torsion
Sign convention
The sign convention adopted to indicate.

Ties (i.e. tension members) and
Struts (i.e. compression members) in trusses
Strut –Compression member

CHAPTER 2
Joint Joint
Tie – Tension member

Joint Joint
Internal Force
Before any given truss is analysed, the truss has to be classified first whether
it is statically determinate or indeterminate as mentioned in Topic 1.
If it is a statically determinate truss:

The following methods can be employed to solve the internal forces of
CHAPTER 2
the truss.
Assumptions for Analysis
The analysis of trusses is usually based on following 3 assumptions:

1. All members are connected only at
their ends by frictionless hinges in
plane trusses.
CHAPTER 2
Flexible joint Not at middle Not rigid joint

The analysis of trusses is usually based on C

following assumptions:
Load not applied at joint
2. All loads and support
reactions are applied
only at the joints. A B
C
CHAPTER 2
D
Support not placed at joint
A B
A C
B

The analysis of trusses is usually based on
following assumptions:
3. The centroidal axis of each member

coincides with the line connecting the
centers of the adjacent joints. Line of action intersect
CHAPTER 2
Line of action intersect

Method of Joint
Method of joints is usually used when we are interested in finding

the internal force in every single member of the truss.
As its name implies, it relies on the application of equilibrium

condition at each joint to solve for the member forces.
CHAPTER 2
Method of Joint
This method uses the free-body-diagram of joints in the structure to determine the forces
in each member.
For example, the truss have 5 joints each having a free body diagram as shown.
F1
B F1 C
B C F2
F2
CHAPTER 2
A D
E F3
D
E F3
Method of Joint
If a truss is stable, then each of its joints must be equilibrium.

The method of joints consists of satisfying the equilibrium conditions,
ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0 for the forces exerted on the pin at each joint of the truss.
When drawing the free body diagram,

CHAPTER 2
assume all the internal forces are in tension.
If during calculation the force has negative

value, than the member is in compression.
Method of Joint-Summary of procedure
1. The analysis of the truss by the method of joints is started by finding the reaction of
the truss supports.
2. Then a joint is selected with a condition that it has two or less unknown forces
acting on it.
3. Sketch the force diagram for the joint assuming all members are in tension.
4. By using ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0, solve the unknown forces acting on the joint.
CHAPTER 2
5. Once the forces in a joint are solved, the results can be used to solved the forces
acting on other joints of the truss.
6. This process is repeated on other joints until all internal forces are solved.
Example 1
1. Determine by the method of joints the forces in the members of the
truss as shown.
2. (Remember: Pinned support has 2 reactions, and roller support has 1

reaction)
15 kN
5 kN B
3.0 m
CHAPTER 2
A C
4.0 m 2.0 m
6.0 m
Example 1
Solution:
1. Step 1:
Evaluate the support reactions.

Summing all moment about A equal zero,
counter clock-wise direction as positive:
+∑ M A = 0

( −15kN.4m) + ( −5kN.3m) + (FCY .6m) =0 15 kN
FCY .6m = 75kN.m 5 kN
B
FCY 12.5kN ↑
=
CHAPTER 2
3.0 m
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
→ + ∑ Fx =0
FAY + FCY − 15 =
0
FAX + 5kN =
0
FAY + 12.5kN − 15kN =
0 FAX A C
FAX = −5kN
FAY 15kN − 12.5kN
=
F=
AX 5kN ← 4.0 m 2.0 m
FAY 2.5kN ↑
= 6.0 m
FAY FCY
Example 1
Summary of reactions
15 kN
5 kN
B
3.0 m
CHAPTER 2
FAX =5 kN A C
4.0 m 2.0 m
6.0 m
FAY =2.5 kN FCY =12.5 kN

Example 1
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 2:
Choose the joint with two unknown forces.
(In this case all the joints has 2 unknown forces).
Say we choose joint A. FAB denotes Internal Force in

member AB
Draw the forces that acted on the member and FAB
the external forces calculated.
CHAPTER 2
(Assume both internal forces

are in tension)
A
FAX =15 kN FAC

FAC denotes Internal
Force in member AC
FAY =2.5 kN
Example 1
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Draw the scalar components for all forces.
In this case, only FAB
FAB sinθ
FAB
CHAPTER 2
FAB cosθ
A θ
FAX =15 kN FAC
FAY =2.5 kN
Example 1
Step 3:
Apply equations of static equilibrium.
→ + ∑ Fx= 0, ↑ + ∑ Fy= 0
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FAB sin θ + 2.5kN = 0
FAB sinθ
(If you start with ∑Fx= 0, there will be 2 FAB
unknown and therefore cannot be solved)
From the diagram, FAB cosθ

CHAPTER 2
Sin θ = 3/5 and cos θ = 4/5 A θ
5 FAX =15 kN
3
θ
FAY =2.5 kN
4
Example 1
Step 3:
→ + ∑ Fx= 0, ↑ + ∑ Fy= 0
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FAB sinθ
FAB sin θ + 2.5kN = 0
FAB
3
FAB + 2.5kN =
0
5
FAB = −4.18kN
FAB cosθ
A θ
CHAPTER 2
(-ve means the member AB is in

compression, the direction of FAC
arrow have to be inverted since FAX =15 kN
the initial FBD assume that it is in
tension) FAY =2.5 kN
Example 1
Step 3:
→ + ∑ Fx= 0, ↑ + ∑ Fy= 0
FAB sinθ
→ + ∑ Fx =0
FAB
− FAB cos θ + FAC − 15kN = 0
4
− (4.18kN) + FAC − 15kN =
0
5
FAC = 18.34kN FAB cosθ
A θ
(+ve means the member
AC is in tension, the
CHAPTER 2
FAX =15 kN FAC

assumption that it is in
tension is correct)
FAY =2.5 kN
Example 1
Now we have solve the force in member AB and
AC and next we have to solve the force in BC.

Note:
FAC=FCA
Step 4: To solve the force in BC we can select either FAB=FBA
joint B or C. FBC=FCB
Say we choose joint C.
FCB sinα
FCB
Sketch the forces that are acting on the members at
joint C. FCB cosα
CHAPTER 2
α
FCA
C
F =12.5 kN
Example 1
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Apply equations of static equilibrium.
→ + ∑ Fx= 0, ↑ + ∑ Fy= 0
Note:
↑ + ∑ Fy =0 3 FAC=FCA
From Figure sin α = FAB=FBA
13
FCB sin α + 12.5kN = 0
FBC=FCB
3
FCB = −12.5kN
13 3
FCB sinα
13 α
FCB
= (−12.5kN) FCB
3
2
FCB = −15kN
CHAPTER 2
FCB cosα
α
FBC is in compression FCA
C
FCY =12.5 kN
Example 1
Summary of internal forces
15 kN
5 kN
B
FAB = 4.18kN(C) FCB = 15kN(C)
3.0 m
18.34kN(T)
CHAPTER 2
A C
FAX =15 kN
4.0 m 2.0 m
6.0 m
FAY =2.5 kN FCY =12.5 kN

Example 2
A. Check whether the truss is statically determinate.

B. Determine the force in each member of the loaded truss.
B 2.0 m
C
45°
CHAPTER 2
2.0 m 45°
45° 45°
D
A 4.0 m
3000 N
Example 2
Solution:
A Check whether the truss is statically determinate.
m = 5,
r = 3,
j=4
m + r = 8,
2j = 8
CHAPTER 2
therefore, m + r = 2j
stable and statically determinate truss.

Example 2
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS B Determine the force in each member of the loaded truss.
Step 1: Determine the reactions at A and B
+∑ M B = 0

(−3000N.4m) + (FAX .2m) =
0
FAX .2m = 12, 000N.m FBY
FAX 6000N →
=
B 2.0 m
FBX C
→ + ∑ Fx =0
FAX + FBX =
0 45°
FBX = − FAX
CHAPTER 2
2.0 m 45°
FBX 6000N ←
= 45° 45°
D
↑ + ∑ Fy =0 FAX A 4.0 m
FBY − 3000N =
0 3000 N
FBY 3000N ↑
=
Example 2
FBY =3000N
FBX = 6000N B 2.0 m

C
45°
CHAPTER 2
2.0 m 45°
45° 45°
D
FAX = 6000N A 4.0 m
3000 N
Step 3: Example 2
Select joint D.
→ + ∑ Fx= 0, ↑ + ∑ Fy= 0
Actual magnitude and direction

FCD =4242.6N
FCD sin45°
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FCD FCD sin 45° − 3000N = 0
FCD = 4242.6N(T)
CHAPTER 2
FCD cos45°
45° → + ∑ Fx =0 45°
FAD
− FAD − FCD cos 45° =0 D
D
FAD = −3000N FAD =3000N
3000 N
FAD = 3000N(C)
3000 N
Example 2
Step 4: Select other joint with two unknowns forces.
(In this case A, C or B)
Let’s say we choose joint A.

FAC
→ + ∑ Fx =0
−FAD + FAC cos 45° + 6000N = 0
−3000N + FAC cos 45° + 6000N = 0
FAC sin45°
FAC FAC cos 45° = −3000N A

FAC = 4242.6N(C)
FAB Actual direction
CHAPTER 2
FAC cos45° ↑ + ∑ Fy =0
− FAC sin 45° + FAB = 0
FAB
45° −4242.6 sin 45° + FAB = 0
6000 N
=
FAD FAB 4242.6 sin 45°
A FAB = 3000N(T)
Example 2
Step 5: Select joint B to calculate the
remaining unknown force in BC.

→ + ∑ Fx =0
3000 N
6000 N FBC − 6000N =
0 FBC
B
FBC = 6000N(T)
FBC
CHAPTER 2
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FAB − FAB + 3000N =

0
FAB
FAB = 3000N(T)
Example 2
Summary of internal forces
FBY =3000N
B 2.0 m
FBX = 6000N
FBC = 6000N(T) C
45°
FAB = 3000N(T) FAC = 4242.6N(C)

CHAPTER 2
FCD = 4242.6N(T)
45°
2.0 m
45° 45°
FAD = 3000N(C) D
A
FAX = 6000N 4.0 m
3000 N
Example 3
Determine the force in the members of the
truss as shown below.

180 kN
120 kN
D
6.0 m
CHAPTER 2
A
C
6.0 m B 4.5 m
Example 3
Solution:
Calculate reactions at pin support A and roller support C.
+∑ M A = 0
 180 kN
( −180kN.6m) + (120kN.6m) + (FCY .10.5m) =
0
FCY
= 34.3kN ↑ 120 kN
D
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FAY + FCY − 180kN =
0
FAY + 34.3kN =
180kN
FAY
= 145.7kN ↑
6.0 m
CHAPTER 2
→ + ∑ Fx =0
FAX − 120kN =
0 FAX
A
FAX
= 120kN →
C
6.0 m B 4.5 m
FAY FCY
Example 3
180 kN
120 kN
D
6.0 m
CHAPTER 2
FAX =120 A
C
6.0 m B 4.5 m
FAY =145.7 FCY =34.3

Example 3
Geometry of incline members
180 kN
6 120 kN 6
D
6 4.5
= 6.0 m =
CHAPTER 2
FAX 5
A 4
1 C
6.0 m B 4.5 m
1 FCY 3
FAY
Example 3
At Joint A
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
 1 
  FAD + 145.7 = 0
 2
FAD  2 FAD
FAD sinθ
FAD = −  145.7
 1 
FAD = −206.1
1
FAD = 206.1(C)
Actual direction
1 FAD cosθ
CHAPTER 2
A → + ∑ Fx =0
 1 
120kN +   FAD + FAB = 0
FAX =120 kN FAB  2
FAY =145.7 kN FAB
 1 
120kN −   .206.1 + FAB = 0
 2
FAB = 25.7(T)
Example 3
Joint B
FBD → + ∑ Fx =0
FBC
− FBA + FBC =
0
−25.7 + FBC =
0
FBC = 25.7(T)
CHAPTER 2
FBA B FBC ↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FBD + 0 =0
FBD = 0
Example 3
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Joint C
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FCD
FCD sinθ
FCD 4
34.4 +   FCD =
0
5
FCD = −43
FCD cosθ 4 FCD = 43(C)
Actual direction
CHAPTER 2
3
→ + ∑ Fx =0
C 3
− FBC −   FCD =0
FBC 5
3
− FBC −   .43 =
0
5
FCY =34.3 kN FBC = 25.7(T)
Member that have no force in them is called zero-force member.

Zero member exist may be due to the following:
1. It may increase the stability of the truss

CHAPTER 2
2. It can provide the support if the load changes

3. It may be added for aesthetical reason
Analysis is simplified if one can identify those members that support no
loads. Zero force members can be identified quickly through inspection. Zero
force member can be identify if:
Two members form a truss joint and

CHAPTER 2
there is no external load or support

reaction at that joint then those
members are zero-force members.
ii. Three members form a truss joint,

of which two are colllinear and
there is no external load or support
reaction at that joint then the force
in non collinear member is zero.
CHAPTER 2
Figure 2 12 shows a truss that are loaded at joinr C and joint D.
Joints A have two members and no external load or support

reaction, so FAF = FAB =0.
Joint D also have two members but since there is an external force
acting, forces in member DE and DC cannot be determine as zero
by statement (i) above.
F E D
P1
CHAPTER 2
But using (ii) above, FDE is

collinear with P1, so FDC can
be determine as zero
C because it is the only non
A B collinear member
P2
Example 4
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Identify the zero force member in the truss as shown below
H G F 800 N
CHAPTER 2
A B C E
D
500 N
Example 4
Solution:
@Joint A:
Two members AH and AB, but since joint A
islocated on external support,rule (i) above cannot
be apply. AH and AB are NOT zero force members.
@Joint E: Two members ED and EF, but since joint

A is located on external support, rule (i) above
cannot be apply. ED and EF are NOT zero force
CHAPTER 2
members.
@Joint B:Three members joint where two of the

members are collinear. From rule (ii) above, AB and
BC are collinear, so member BH is zero force
member.
Example 4
Solution:
@Joint G:Three members joint where two of the
members are collinear. From rule (ii) above, GH
and GF are collinear, so member GC is zero force
member.
@Joint D, an external force act on it, so rule(ii)

cannot be apply.
CHAPTER 2
Example 5
Identify the zero force member in the truss
as shown below:
H G F 800 N
CHAPTER 2
A B C E
D
500 N
Example 5
Solution:
@Joint A:Two members AH and AB, and no
external support or force acting. so AH and AB are

zero force members.

@Joint B:Three members where AB and BC are
collinear, so BH is zero force member.
@Joint B:Since AB is zero then BC must also be
zero.
@Joint G:Three members where GH and GF are
collinear, so GC is zero force member.
CHAPTER 2
Thus, it can be seen that by simply changing the

support condition, the load-path changed
significantly causing the introduction of many
more zero-force members than before.
If the forces in only a few members of a truss are to be determined, the

method of sections is generally the most appropriate analysis procedure.
The method of sections consists of passing an imaginary line through the

truss, cutting it into sections.
Each imaginary section must be in equilibrium if the entire truss is in

CHAPTER 2
equilibrium and by using the equilibrium equations solve the unknown forces
in the cut member.
Procedure for Analysis
1. If necessary, determine the support reactions for the entire truss.
2. Make a decision on how the truss should be “cut” into sections and
draw the corresponding free-body diagrams.
3. Try to apply the three equations of equilibrium such that

simultaneous solution is not required.
CHAPTER 2
Example 6
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Determine the forces GH, CH and BC the truss.
H G F
30 kN
3m
A E
B C D
40 kN 40 kN 40 kN
CHAPTER 2
4m 4m 4m 4m
Example 6
Solution:
The reactions are calculated and imagine cutting the structure

into two sections about line 1-1 as shown below
1
H G F
30 kN
3m
E
A
CHAPTER 2
B C D 30 kN
1 40 kN 40 kN
54.4 kN 40 kN 65.6 kN
4m 4m 4m 4m
H
Example 6
G
30 kN
The truss will become two independent system namely left and right 3m
side. Assume the ‘cut’ members are in tension.

A B C
Typically the section with the fewest forces or with section with the most
Ay=54.4 kN
convenient geometry is selected. In this example the left-hand side is 4m
40 kN 40 kN
4
selected.
LEFT SIDE
H G F
30 kN
3m 3m
E
A
CHAPTER 2
B C D 30 kN
40 kN 40 kN 40 kN
54.4 kN
4m 4m 4m
LEFT SIDE RIGHT SIDE

Apply the three equations of equilibrium to the section. If possible, Example 6
attempt to develop an equation in just one unknown. Look for
points where the lines of action of several forces are concurrent.

𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 + ∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐻𝐻 = 0 H FHG

30 kN
54.4. 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 × 4𝑚𝑚 − 𝐹𝐹𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 × 3𝑚𝑚 = 0
FBC =72.5 kN (Tension) 3m FHC
𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 + ∑ 𝑀𝑀𝐶𝐶 = 0 A FBC C

𝐹𝐹𝐺𝐺𝐺𝐺 × 3𝑚𝑚 + 30 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 × 3𝑚𝑚 + 54.4𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 × 8𝑚𝑚 − 40𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 × 4𝑚𝑚 = 0
B
40 kN
CHAPTER 2
FHG =-121.7 (Compression) 54.4 kN

4m
↑ + ∑ 𝐹𝐹𝑦𝑦 = 0 LEFT SIDE
54.4𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 − 40𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 − 𝐹𝐹𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻

3
=0 5
5
3
FHC= 24 kN (Tension) θ
4
Example 7
Determine the forces in members CD, DG and GH of the truss
shown below:
120 kN 120 kN 120 kN 60 kN

E F G H I
3m
CHAPTER 2
A B C D
4m 4m 4m 4m
Example 7
Cut to expose members DC, DG and HG:
Apply equation of static equilibriums 60 kN

120 kN
G FHG H I
FDG 3m
FDC
D
4m 4m
CHAPTER 2
5
3
θ
4
Example 8
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Determine the forces in members HI, DI and DC.
1 kN
K J I H G
F
5m
E
D
C
B 2 kN
CHAPTER 2
A 2 kN
2 kN 5@3m
Example 8
2
tan θ =
3
2
θ = tan −1
3
=
θ 33.7°
1 kN
3m 3m 3m
FHI H G
F
18.4°
33.7°
2m tan α =
1
3m
FDI E 3
1
α =tan −1
3
CHAPTER 2
FDC
D θ 18.4°
=
2 kN
Determine the force in members GF and GD of the truss shown Example 9
in the figure. State whether the members are in tension or
compression. The reactions at the support have been calculated.

H F
CHAPTER 2
3m
4,5 m
A
6 kN B 2 kN E
3m C 8 kN D
9 kN 7 kN
Example 9
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Work out some geometry.
3m 3m
4.5
tan α =
3
4.5 FFG
α =tan −1
3
θ 56.3°
= G 1.5 m
F
θ
1
tan θ =
FDG 4.5 m
2 3m
1
θ = tan −1
CHAPTER 2
2
=
θ 26.6° α
θ
FDC D E
2 kN 7 kN
1 4.5 Example 9
tan θ = tan α =
2 3
1 4.5
θ = tan −1 α =tan −1
2 3
=
θ 26.6° θ 56.3°
=
3m 3m
FFG
G 1.5 m
F
θ
FDG 4.5 m
CHAPTER 2
3m
α
θ
FDC D E
2 kN 7 kN
The method of joint is used when the forces in all members are to
be determined.
However when the number of members in a truss is large,
calculations using this method can be rather slow.
The analysis of trusses can be considerably expedited if we can
determine some (preferably all) of the member forces by
inspection—that is:
without drawing the joint free-body diagrams and writing the
equations of equilibrium.
CHAPTER 2
This approach can be conveniently used for the joints at which at

least one of the two unknown forces is acting in the horizontal or
vertical direction.
When both of the unknown forces at a joint have inclined directions, it

usually becomes necessary to draw the free-body diagram of the joint and
determine the unknowns by solving the equilibrium equations
simultaneously.
The calculations itself can be made directly on the truss diagram hence
making it faster. This method will be useful in determining the deflection of
truss and for indeterminate truss that will be discussed in later topics.
CHAPTER 2
Similar to the method of joint, the reactions on the supports due to external
loads must first be calculated.
Find the zero-member forces if any.
Sketch the truss large enough to carry the operation.

(Larger is preferable).
Start the operation at any joint with two unknown forces.

CHAPTER 2
Use ∑Fx = 0 ,∑Fy = 0 to determine the direction of forces.

Example 10
Determine the forces in all members using inspection
4.2 kN
2.8 kN
D
2.0 m
CHAPTER 2
B
A C
2.0 m 1.5 m
Example 10
Solution:
Step 1: Calculate reactions at pin support A
and roller support C.

+∑ M A = 0

(2.8kN.2m) + (−4.2kN.2m) + (FCY .3, 5m) =0
4.2 kN
FCY 0.8kN ↑
=
2.8 kN D
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
2.0 m
FAY + FCY − 4.5kN =
0
CHAPTER 2
FAY + 0.8kN − 4.5kN =

0
A B C
FAY 3.4kN ↑
=
FAX 2.0 m 1.5 m
→ + ∑ Fx =0
FAY FCY
FAX − 2.8kN =
0
FAX 2.8kN →
=
Example 10
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 2. Begin with a member, say AD.
4.2 kN
2.8 kN D
Join D have 3 unknowns:
2 blue
1 red
FAX
A F
CHAPTER 2
AY
Join A have 2 unknowns:

1 blue
1 red SELECT JOINT A.
Less number of unknowns
Example 10
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 2. Begin with a member, say AD.
Analyze joint A.
FAD FAD
FAD sinθ
FAD sinθ
1
FAD cosθ
A A 1
FAY
CHAPTER 2
FAY
Vertical direction Horizontal direction Magnitude of FAD cosθ
FAD sinθ must point must = FAD sinθ (base
FAD cosθ must point to
left since FAD sinθ point on shown geometry)
down as FAY is pointing
up down.
FAD sinθ = 3.4 kN ↓ FAD cosθ = 3.4 kN ←
Example 10
Step 2. Begin with a member, say AD.
Analyze joint A.
Solve for FAB

3.4 3.4
2.8 FAD
FAD FAB ?
FAB must be 0.6 kN to

FAD cosθ 3.4
the right (to balance all A
A forces). 2.8 0.6
FAX FAB 3.4
CHAPTER 2
3.4
Horizontal direction
2.8 FAB =0.6
At joint
NOTE:
FAD cosθ must point to AT THIS POINT THERE IS
left since FAD sinθ point NO NEED TO FIND FAD ,
down. LEAVE ALL FORCES AS V
FAD cosθ = 3.4 kN ← AND H COMPONENTS.
Example 10
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 3. As analysis of joint A is complete, move to
next joint, A or D. 4.2 kN
Direction of fores are reversed when 2.8 kN D

transfer to next joint.
D
2.0 m
3.4
A B C
FDA 3.4 FAX 2.0 m 1.5 m

3.4
FAY FCY
CHAPTER 2
FAD
3.4
A
2.8 0.6 0.6 B
Direction of fores are reversed when
3.4
transfer to next joint.
Example 10
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 3. Let try joint D.
4.2 kN
2.8 kN D
4.2 kN
3.4
2.8 kN D
2.0 m
FDA 3.4
FDC A B C
FDB FAX
CHAPTER 2
2.0 m 1.5 m
FAY FCY
Join D have 3 unknowns in x
and y direction.
Have to write EoE to solve
for unknowns
Example 10
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 3. Let try joint B.
zero-force member.
FBD
4.2 kN
2.8 kN D
0.6 FBC
2.0 m
B
C
CHAPTER 2
A B
Join B have 2 unknowns and FAX
one of them is zero-force 2.0 m 1.5 m
FAY FCY
member.
Thus, FBC =0.6 →

Example 10
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Step 4. Move to next joint, C or D, say joint C.
4.2 kN
2.8 kN D
4.2 kN
D
2.0 m
2.8 kN
3.4 C
A B
FCD FAX
2.0 m 1.5 m
FAY FCY
FDA 3.4
FDC
FDB =0
CHAPTER 2
C
Join D is reduced to 2 0.6 kN
unknown. FCY
Can solve.
Join C also has 2 unknown.
Can solve.
Example 10
Step 4. Move to next joint, C or D, say joint C.
4.2 kN
2.8 kN D
FCD sinθ
FCD FCD
2.0 m
0.8
5
(2)4 A B C
FCD cosθ FAX
2.0 m 1.5 m
(1.5)3 FAY FCY
C C
CHAPTER 2
0.8 kN 0.8 kN
Vertical direction Horizontal direction Magnitude of FCD cosθ

FCD sinθ must point must = (3/4)FCD sinθ
FCD cosθ must point to
(base on shown
down as FCY is right since FCD sinθ
geometry)
pointing up point down.
FCD sinθ = 0.8 kN ↓ FCD cosθ = 0.6 kN →
Example 10
Step 4. Move to next joint, C or D, say joint C.
FCD
0.6 0.8
FCB C
Horizontal direction This is consintent with

CHAPTER 2
FCB is 0.6 to the left

result from step 3
(tension) (evaluation of joint B)
Example 10
Step 5. INTERNAL FORCES IN EACH MEMBER
FAD FCD
0.8
0.6
3.4 FBC
FBC =0.6 kN (T) 0.6

3.4
FCB C
FAD cosθ = 3.4 kN ←
FCD cosθ = 0.6 kN →
FAD = 4.84 kN (C)
0.6 FCD = 1 kN (T)
CHAPTER 2
FBC
FAB =0.6 kN (T) 5
1 (2)4
1 (1.5)3
Example 11
DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS Determine the forces in all members for the truss as
shown below using inspection.
50 kN 100 kN 50 kN
B D F
20 kN
1.5 m
CHAPTER 2
A H
C E G
4 @ 2.0 m
Solution: Example 11
Step 1: Calculate reactions at pin support A
and roller support H.

+∑ M A = 0

(−20kN)(1.5m) + (−50kN.2m) + (−100kN.4m) + (−50kN.6m) + (FHY )(8m) =0
FHY 103.8kN ↑
=
↑ + ∑ Fy =0
FAY + FCY − 50kN − 100kN − 50kN =
0
50 kN 100 kN 50 kN
FAY 96.2kN ↑
=
B D F
→ + ∑ Fx =0 20 kN
CHAPTER 2
FAX + 20kN =
0
1.5 m
FAX =
−20kN ←
A H
FAX C E G FHY
FAY
4 @ 2.0 m
Start at joint A since it has 2 unknown i.e FAB and FAC.
At joint A, start with Fy direction.
(Don’t start in the Fx direction since it has 2 unknown)

50 kN 100 kN 50 kN
20 kN B D F
96.2
1
CHAPTER 2
A 128.3 H
20 3 C E G
96.2
96.2
1
96.2
1 96.2
2
96.2
A 128.3
 2 
1.5 96.2  
2  1.5 
20 148.3 3 2
128.3
CHAPTER 2
96.2 20 128.3
3
50 kN 100 kN 50 kN
20 kN B D F
10 2o9.9 2o9.9
2o9.9
96.2
6 61.6
96.2 7 100
8 9
1 128.3
2 0 46.2
A 128.3 H
20 3 4 5 E G
148.3 C 148.3
CHAPTER 2
96.2 50
96.2
96.2 96.2 61.6
10 20
4 6 8 128.3
148.3 148.3 46.2
2o9.9
0 128.3 61.6
 2 
1.5 46.2  
5 7 1.5
9  1.5 
148.3 148.3 96.2 2 46.2 2
46.2 100 53.8
100 kN 50 kN
D F
11
2o9.9
103.8
53.8 46.2 53.8
12 100 11 17
71.7 0 18
71.7
61.6 61.6 138.1
13 148.3
12 H
71.7 148.3 13 138.1 14 15 138.1 16
E
CHAPTER 2
138.1
G
103.8
14 15 16 17 103.8 18
138.1
138.1
103.8

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2

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ANALYSIS OF STATICALLY

CHAPTER 2 DETERMINATE PLANE TRUSS

At the end of this topic, student should be able to:

1. Classify the type of plane truss (PLO1, C1)

A truss by definition is an assembly of straight members connected at their

General truss classification:

The simplest form of

By adding two elements and a joint/ node to the basic

Trusses constructed using this

A compound truss is formed by connecting

Two simple trusses are connected by a

Two simple trusses ABC and DEF

A complex truss uses a general layout of members

It often incorporates overlapping

Basically, the force that No shear

The sign convention adopted to indicate.

Strut –Compression member

Tie – Tension member

If it is a statically determinate truss:

The analysis of trusses is usually based on following 3 assumptions:

Flexible joint Not at middle Not rigid joint

The analysis of trusses is usually based on C

Assumptions for Analysis

3. The centroidal axis of each member

Line of action intersect

Method of joints is usually used when we are interested in finding

As its name implies, it relies on the application of equilibrium

If a truss is stable, then each of its joints must be equilibrium.

When drawing the free body diagram,

assume all the internal forces are in tension.

If during calculation the force has negative

2. (Remember: Pinned support has 2 reactions, and roller support has 1

Evaluate the support reactions.

FAY =2.5 kN FCY =12.5 kN

(In this case all the joints has 2 unknown forces).

Say we choose joint A. FAB denotes Internal Force in

(Assume both internal forces

FAX =15 kN FAC

FAX =15 kN FAC

From the diagram, FAB cosθ

Sin θ = 3/5 and cos θ = 4/5 A θ

(-ve means the member AB is in

FAX =15 kN FAC

AC and next we have to solve the force in BC.

Summary of internal forces

FAB = 4.18kN(C) FCB = 15kN(C)

FAY =2.5 kN FCY =12.5 kN

A. Check whether the truss is statically determinate.

B. Determine the force in each member of the loaded truss.

A Check whether the truss is statically determinate.

stable and statically determinate truss.

FBX = 6000N B 2.0 m

Actual magnitude and direction

Let’s say we choose joint A.

FAC FAC cos 45° = −3000N A

remaining unknown force in BC.

FAB − FAB + 3000N =

Summary of internal forces

FAB = 3000N(T) FAC = 4242.6N(C)

truss as shown below.

Calculate reactions at pin support A and roller support C.

FAY =145.7 FCY =34.3