Equilibrium on Structures

Engr. Juan Carlos L. Cruz

In the engineering field, most analysis of forces are done
on structures. These analyses translate to different
kinds of concepts and assumptions.

Here are the general types of structures:

1. Beam – a simple member subjected to transverse
loadings and should be properly connected.
P

w
2. Truss – composed of
members/bars assumed to be
connected by frictionless pins;
loads are applied at nodes;
members form triangular
divisions.

3. Frames – composed of members

that are connected by rigid joints;
passing a cutting plane through
any point exposes internal shear,
axial and moment at that section.
Trusses are used for two general purposes: (1) as roof
trusses and as (2) bridge trusses.

For truss analysis, the following assumptions govern:

1. pin-connected members
2. joint/nodal loads only

These assumptions simplify the analysis for the truss.

Each truss member may also be called a two-force
member because it only resists vertical and
horizontal forces, not moments.
Member forces in trusses maybe characterized into two
depending on their direction.

If the member force is towards the joint, the member is

under compression.

If the member force is away from joint, the member is

under tension.

Remember that the body we are analyzing is the node

or joint.
There are three ways to determine the member forces
in trusses, namely:

1. Method of Joints
2. Method of Sections
Example: Determine the member forces using
Method of Joints.
Example: Determine the member forces using
Method of Joints.
Example: Determine the member forces using
Method of Joints.
Example: Determine the member forces using
Method of Joints.
Example: Determine the member forces using
Method of Joints.
Example: Determine the member forces using
Method of Sections.
 Steps in solving:
1. Solve for the reactions
2. Draw cutting plane through the member forces
we wish to determine
3. Analyze the left OR right section of the cutting
plane
4. Replace the cut members by its internal force
and assume its direction
5. Solve the member forces using equations of
equilibrium
Example: Determine the force in members AB, AC, BD, CD, and CE
of the cantilever truss shown in Fig. P-411.
Example: The Warren truss loaded as shown in Fig. P-418 is
supported by a roller at C and a hinge at G. By the method of
sections, compute the force in the members BC, DF, and CE.
Example: Using the method of sections, compute the
force in bars FH, GH, and EK.
Example: Determine the force in bars BD, CD, and DE
of the nacelle truss shown in Fig. P-427.
Example: For the cantilever truss shown in Fig. P-429,
determine the forces in members DF, FH, FI, GI, and FG.
Example: For the D
10’
E
780 lbs

transmission tower 12’

shown, determine the C F
I
force in member CJ. 12’
(Hint: First use the B
J
G

section a-a to find the 12’

force in BC.) A
K
H

17’ 17’
METHOD OF MEMBERS
Example: The structure shown in Figure P-441 is hinged at A and C.
Find the horizontal and vertical components of the hinge force at B,
C, and A.
 Example: The frame
shown in Figure P-444 is
supported by a hinge at A
and a roller at E. Compute
the horizontal and vertical
components of the hinge
forces at B and C as they
act upon member AC.
Example: The frame shown in
Figure P-445 is supported by
a hinge at E and a roller at D.
Compute the horizontal and
vertical components of the
hinge force at C as it acts
upon BD.
 Example: The billboard BC
weighing 1000 lb is subjected to
a wind pressure of 300 lb/ft as
shown in Figure P-450.
Neglecting the weights of the
support-members, determine
the component of the hinge
forces at A and F.
Example: For the frame shown
in Figure P-453, determine the
resultant hinge forces at B, C,
and E.
 Example: The truss are joined as shown in Figure P-447 to form
a three-hinged arch. Determine the horizontal and vertical
components of the hinge force at B and then determine the type
and magnitude of force in bars BD and BE.
Example: A beam carrying the loads shown in Figure P-448 is
composed of three segments. It is supported by four vertical
reactions and joined by two frictionless hinges. Determine the
values of the reactions.
Example: The bridge shown in Figure P-449 consists of two
end sections, each weighing 20 tons with center of gravity
at G, hinged to a uniform center span weighing 12 tons.
Compute the reactions at A, B, E, and F.