Centre for Diploma Studies Page 1

Department of Civil Engineering Edition 1

Tension Coefficient – No. 2
Effective Date 16/10/2022
Tension Coefficient Member
Amendment Date

1.0 OBJECTIVE

1.1 To find theoretical forces calculated by tension coefficient method

2.0 LEARNING OUTCOME

2.1 To application the engineering knowledge in practical application

2.2 To enhance technical competency in structural engineering through laboratory application.
2.3 To communicate effectively in group
2.4 To identify problem, solving and finding out appropriate solution through laboratory application

3.0 THEORY

The tension coefficient for member of a frame is defined as the pull or tension in that member divided by its
T
t=
length; L . Where, t is tension coefficient of the member, T is the pull in member and L is length of
member. If a member of a truss system is situated not in a 2D plane, then the truss is defined as a space
frame truss. In other words, space truss has component in 3 axis; x,y, and z. Consider a member with
node A (xA, yA) and B (xB, yB);

T AB
t AB=
Assume the force in the member in TAB is tension (+ve), the definition of tension coefficient, t is; L AB

At A, the horizontal component TAB is;

t AB L AB cos θ
T AB cos θ= =t AB L AB ( x B −x A )
L AB
¿ t AB ( x B −x A )
=t AB ( y B − y A )
Using the same method, the vertical component at A is
 Centre for Diploma Studies Page 2
Department of Civil Engineering Edition 1
Tension Coefficient – No. 2
Effective Date 16/10/2022
Tension Coefficient Member
Amendment Date

=t AB ( x A −x B )
At B, the horizontal component TAB is =
=t AB ( y A − y B )
Using the same method, the vertical component at B is
Using static equation and the coordinate value, tension at each joint can be solve.

√ 2
T AB=t AB L AB = ( x B −x A ) + ( y B− y A )
2

Space frames usually utilize a multidirectional span and are often used to accomplish long spans with few
supports. They derive their strength from inherent rigidity of triangular frame; flexing loads (bending
moments) are transmitted as tension and compression loads along the length of each strut.
 Centre for Diploma Studies Page 3
Department of Civil Engineering Edition 1
Tension Coefficient – No. 2
Effective Date 16/10/2022
Tension Coefficient Member
Amendment Date

4.0 PROCEDURES

1. Adjust the length of jib by turning male threaded rods clockwise or anticlockwise depending on
either to increase or decrease the length.
2. Adjust the length of tie rods using S.S chain and turnbuckle.
3. Fix the post length using sliding square bar and measure it from pivot joint.
4. Note down the initial readings of tie rods and jib unloaded.
5. Put weight on hanger and note down the readings of force on jib and tie rods along with their
respective lengths.
6. Repeat the procedure with different post heights. Different chain lengths and with different loads.
7. Recod all the experimental forces and change in lengths along with coordinates
 Centre for Diploma Studies Page 4
Department of Civil Engineering Edition 1
Tension Coefficient – No. 2
Effective Date 16/10/2022
Tension Coefficient Member
Amendment Date

5.0 RESULTS

DATA:

Initial Length
Tie A : mm
Tie B : mm
Jib : mm

Final Length (mm) Initial Force (kg) Final Force (kg) Observed Force (kg)
Weight Tie Tie Jib Tie Jib Tie Jib
(kg) Jib
A B A B compression A B compression A B compression
10

1 kg = 10 N

ANALYSIS:

1. Draw the Free Body Diagram of the members

2. Identify the coordinates of each point member.
3. Analyze theoretical technique using tension coefficient method.
4. Present the obtained result in appropriate table.
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Studies
Department of Civil Edition
1
Engineering
Tension Coefficient – No.
2 Effective 16/10/202
Tension Coefficient Date 2
Member
Amendment
Date

6.0 DISCUSSIONS

1. Discuss your obtained data and results regarding truss member (tension and compression).
2. Determine the possible errors occur during design using software.
3. Make your summary analysis based on the result obtained.
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Studies
Department of Civil Edition
1
Engineering
Tension Coefficient – No.
2 Effective 16/10/202
Tension Coefficient Date 2
Member
Amendment
Date