COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL & GEODETIC ENGINEERING

ES 202: STATICS OF RIGID BODIES

Topic: ANALYSIS OF TRUSS STRUCTURES

Instructor: ENGR. LEMUEL P. DATOY

WHAT IS TRUSS?
- By definition, a truss is a structure composed of straight members, typically arranged in
triangular units, which are connected at joints commonly known as nodes. The figure below is
best example of a truss.

- A truss is composed of interconnected slender beams called Members and it is

arranged in a triangular pattern. A triangular pattern of truss makes a structure more
rigid and stable knowing that a truss was designed to connect members at joints with
pins only.
- A four-sided structure (just like the figures below) connected by pins cannot withstand
a lateral force nor even a vertical force in that situation. Thus, the structure might fail
unless a diagonal member added to the system to make it more rigid and stable.
- In this case, a triangular pattern formed and the structure itself functions a truss.
CRITERIA OF A TRUSS
1.) Members must be interconnected in a Triangular manner.
2.) All joints/nodes must be Pins.
3.) Ideally, a truss must withstand axial loads only, especially the members.
4.) In order to achieve the criteria 3, external force or the loads of the truss must be applied
only at every joint of the truss. No load must be applied at the middle of a member.
Note:
Though criteria 3 & 4 determines a truss identity but it doesn’t apply at all times. In the ideal analysis
of a truss, it is assumed that loads are applied only at the joints and that the members are connected
by a pin to ensure they only experiencing axial loads. However, in practical situations, loads may
sometimes be applied to the members between the joints as to the case of a load applied to the center
of a rafter in a roof truss. While a presence of such load changes the internal force distribution within
the affected members, the overall structure can still be considered as truss. However, it is no longer
an IDEAL TRUSS. Instead, it becomes a truss with non-ideal loading condition.

IDEAL TRUSS LOADINGS NON-IDEAL TRUSS LOADINGS

PURPOSE OF A TRUSS ANALYSIS

1.) To determine the internal axial loads in each member of the truss structures
2.) To determine whether a member is in TENSION or COMPRESSION.
3.) To ensure that the whole truss structures are in EQUILIBRIUM.
4.) To understand how loads are being distributed throughout the truss which helps in
identifying the critical members and the minimal load bearing members (as to the zero
loading members).
METHODS IN ANALYZING TRUSS
There are several methods to analyze trusses, each with its own advantages and applications,
depending on the complexity of the truss and the specific forces involved. The two primary methods
used in truss analysis are the Method of Joints and the Method of Sections. Both methods are
based on the principles of static equilibrium, which state that for a body (or structure) to be in
equilibrium, the sum of all forces and moments acting on it must be zero.
1.) Method of Joints:
The Method of Joints involves analyzing the equilibrium of each joint in the truss. Since
each joint is a point where several members meet, this method requires setting up equilibrium
equations for each joint. This approach is particularly effective for simple trusses or when the
goal is to determine the forces in all the members of the truss. The steps involved are as follows:
a.) Identify the Joints:
- List all the joints in the truss.
- Make sure you designate each joint by either a number or a letter.
b.) Determine External Reactions:
- Calculate the support reactions using the overall equilibrium of the truss (∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0,
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, & ∑ 𝑀 = 0).
c.) Isolate a Joint:
- Begin with a joint where only two unknowns are present and at least one known force
value.
- As common practice, it is efficient if you start with any of the support’s joint.
- Draw the FBD of the joint by removing the members and replace by an arrow head
line representing its own internal force. In this case you are creating an FBD of a
concurrent force system.
- The direction of the arrow head line signifies whether it is in tension or compression:
o Arrow pointing towards joint – Compression Force
o Arrow pointing away from joint – Tension Force
- Designate a name of each axial force involve in the equilibrium of the joint. It is
suggested that you name each force by combining the designation of each joint where
a certain member situate. For example, a member is connecting the joint A & B, then
the axial force of that member must designate as FAB or just AB.
d.) Apply Equilibrium Equations:
- For each joint, apply ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0 to find the forces in the members connected
to that joint.
- Before applying equilibrium process, as an analyzer, it must be noted that you have
to assume first the direction of the axial force since it is unknown as the moment you
start to analyze the truss.
- Assuming will not lead you to a wrong value of the force. Instead, you will come up a
negative value indicating the opposite. Assumptions doesn’t automatically equate to a
failed solution if things got worse. Sometimes, when we assume something incorrectly,
it doesn't mean that our decisions in life are failures. Assuming means you're taking
action in life to move forward from where you are. Even if your assumptions are
wrong, taking risks is important because it allows you to learn and discover solutions
to your problems. If you never assumed anything, you might not take any action,
remain stuck where you are, not learn, and miss out on opportunities that could
improve your situation.
- If you assume an upward direction of the force and you come up with negative value,
it means the direction of the force is downward.
 e.) Repeat for All Joints:
- Move to adjacent joints and repeat the process until all member forces are determined.
- When moving to another joint, if the same member is encountered that was analyzed
in a previous joint, the axial force value determined for that member must be applied
consistently in the new joint during the equilibrium analysis.
SAMPLE PROBLEMS:

1.) Using the methods of Joints, determine

the axial force in each member of the
truss shown in the Figure below and
indicate whether the member is in
tension or in compression.

SOLUTION:
Solve for the Reactions:
∑ +↺ 𝑀𝐶 = 0, −𝐴𝑦 (6𝑚) + 60𝑘𝑁(3𝑚)
FBD:
−10𝑘𝑁(6𝑚) = 0

𝐴𝑦 = 20𝑘𝑁

∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, +𝐴𝑦 − 60𝑘𝑁 + 𝐶𝑦 = 0

+(20𝑘𝑁) − 60𝑘𝑁 + 𝐶𝑦 = 0

𝐶𝑦 = 40𝑘𝑁

∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, 10𝑘𝑁 − 𝐶𝑥 = 0

𝐶𝑥 = 10𝑘𝑁
Complete FBD:
❖ Start @ Joint A
6
FBD: ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) + 𝐴𝑦 = 0
6√2
6
(𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) + 20𝑘𝑁 = 0
𝟔√𝟐, 6√2
𝐹𝐴𝐵 = −28.3𝑘𝑁
𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 28.3𝑘𝑁 (C)

6
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, − (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) − 𝐹𝐷𝐴 = 0
6√2
6
Final FBD: − (28.3𝑘𝑁) − 𝐹𝐷𝐴 = 0
6√2

𝟔√𝟐 𝐹𝐷𝐴 = −20.01𝑘𝑁

𝐹𝐷𝐴 = 20.01𝑘𝑁 (T)

6
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) − 60𝑘𝑁 = 0
3√5
𝐹𝐵𝐷 = 67.1𝑘𝑁 (T)
❖ @ Joint D
3
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) − 𝐹𝐷𝐴 − 𝐹𝐶𝐷 = 0
3√5
3
(67.1𝑘𝑁) − 20𝑘𝑁 − 𝐹𝐶𝐷 = 0
3√5
𝐹𝐶𝐷 = 10.0𝑘𝑁 (C)
𝟑√𝟓

Final FBD:

𝟔√𝟓
 ❖ @ Joint C −𝐹𝐵𝐶 + 40𝑘𝑁 = 0
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0,
𝐹𝐵𝐶 = 40𝑘𝑁 (C)

Note:
We already determine each axial force of the
members. So, it is not necessary anymore to solve the
equilibrium on Point B. But for demonstration purpose,
we will still solve it to prove our solution on the previous
Joint.

❖ @ Joint B
Reorient the position to
lessen the unknowns

∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, (10𝑘𝑁)(cos 26.56) − (𝐹𝐴𝐵 )(sin 18.44)

- (𝐹𝐵𝐶 )(sin 26.56) = 0
(10𝑘𝑁)(cos 26.56) − (𝐹𝐴𝐵 )(sin 18.44)
- (40𝑘𝑁)(sin 26.56) = 0
𝐹𝐴𝐵 = −28.26𝑘𝑁

𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 28.26𝑘𝑁 (C)

∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, (10𝑘𝑁)(sin 26.56) − (𝐹𝐵𝐷 )

+(𝐹𝐴𝐵 )(cos 18.44) + (𝐹𝐵𝐶 )(cos 26.56) = 0

(10𝑘𝑁)(sin 26.59) − (𝐹𝐵𝐷 )

+(28.26)(cos 18.44) + (40)(cos 26.56) = 0

𝐹𝐵𝐷 = 67.06𝑘𝑁 (T)

 2.) Using the methods of Joints, determine
the axial force in each member of the
truss shown in the Figure shown and
indicate whether the member is in
tension or in compression.

SOLUTION:
Solve for the Reactions:
FBD:

∑ +↺ 𝑀𝐹 = 0, −𝐴𝑣 (40𝑓𝑡) + 400𝑙𝑏(25𝑓𝑡) ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, +𝐴𝑣 − 400𝑙𝑏 − 1400 + 𝐹𝑦 = 0

+1400𝑙𝑏(10𝑓𝑡) = 0 +(600𝑙𝑏) − 400𝑙𝑏 − 1400 + 𝐹𝑦 = 0

𝐴𝑣 = 600𝑙𝑏 𝐹𝑦 = 1200𝑙𝑏
❖ Start @ Joint A 4
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, − (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) + 𝐴𝑣 = 0
FBD: 5
4
− (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) + (600𝑙𝑏) = 0
5
𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 750𝑙𝑏 (C)
3
Final FBD: ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, − (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) + 𝐹𝐴𝐶 = 0
Assumed as 5
Tension
3
Compression − (750𝑙𝑏) + 𝐹𝐴𝐶 = 0
5
𝐹𝐴𝐶 = 450𝑙𝑏 (T)

Tension

❖ @ Joint B 3 3
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, + (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) − (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) = 0
FBD: 5 √10
3 3
Assumed as + (750𝑙𝑏) − (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) = 0
Compression 5 √10

𝐹𝐵𝐷 = 474.34𝑙𝑏 (C)

4 1
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, + (𝐹𝐴𝐵 ) + (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) − 𝐹𝐵𝐶 = 0
Assumed as
Tension
5 √10
4 1
+ (750𝑙𝑏) + (474.34𝑙𝑏) − 𝐹𝐵𝐶 = 0
5 √10

𝐹𝐵𝐶 = 750𝑙𝑏 (T)

Final FBD:

Compression

Compression Tension
 ❖ @ Joint C
1
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, − (𝐹𝐶𝐷 ) − 400𝑙𝑏 + 𝐹𝐵𝐶 = 0
√2
FBD: Tension
1
− (𝐹𝐶𝐷 ) − 400𝑙𝑏 + 750𝑙𝑏 = 0
Assumed as √2
Compression
𝐹𝐶𝐷 = 494.97𝑙𝑏 (C)

1
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, − (𝐹𝐶𝐷 ) − 𝐹𝐴𝐶 + 𝐹𝐶𝐸 = 0
Tension
√2
Assumed as
Tension 1
− (494.97𝑙𝑏) − 450𝑙𝑏 + 𝐹𝐶𝐸 = 0
√2
Final FBD: 𝐹𝐶𝐸 = 800𝑙𝑏 (T)
Tension

Compression

Tension
Tension

❖ @ Joint D 1 1 3
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, (𝐹𝐶𝐷 ) − (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) + (𝐹𝐷𝐹 ) − 𝐹𝐷𝐸 = 0
FBD: √2 √10 √13
1 1
(494.97𝑙𝑏) − (474.34𝑙𝑏)
Compression √2 √10
3
+ (1442.21𝑙𝑏) − 𝐹𝐷𝐸 = 0
√13
𝐹𝐷𝐸 = 1400𝑙𝑏 (T)
Final FBD:
Assumed as
Compression
Compression
Assumed as
Tension
1 3 2
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, (𝐹𝐶𝐷 ) + (𝐹𝐵𝐷 ) − (𝐹𝐷𝐹 ) = 0
√2 √10 √13
1 3 2
(494.97𝑙𝑏) + (474.34𝑙𝑏) − (𝐹𝐷𝐹 ) = 0
Tension

√2 √10 √13

𝐹𝐷𝐹 = 1442.21𝑙𝑏 (C)

 ❖ @ Joint D Note:
Since forces are collinear with each other, we
can say that force FDE has magnitude
equivalent to downward applied load of 1400lb.
However, FDE is pointing upward opposing the
said applied load. Same goes to force FEF
who’s assume to be tension force (to the right)
opposing the tension force (to the left) of force
FCE with magnitude of 800lb. In this case, FEF is
a tension force (to the right) with magnitude of
800lb.
Note:
We already determined the axial forces of each the members. So, it is not necessary anymore to
solve the equilibrium on Point F. But, Point F is in the support and we had already the values of Fy
& Fx which are 1200lb and 0lb, respectively. This time, let us check if our equilibrium computations
from Joint A to Joint E are in the right track. Let’s assume that Fy & Fx are unknowns.

2
❖ @ Joint F ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, (𝐹𝐷𝐹 ) + (𝐹𝐸𝐹 ) − (𝐹𝑥 ) = 0
√13
FBD:
2
(1442.21𝑙𝑏) − (800𝑙𝑏) − (𝐹𝑥 ) = 0
√13
𝐹𝑥 = 0.0058𝑙𝑏
3
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, − (𝐹𝐷𝐹 ) + (𝐹𝑦 ) = 0
√13
3
− (1442.21𝑙𝑏) + (𝐹𝑦 ) = 0
√13
𝐹𝑦 = 1199.99𝑙𝑏
As you may have noticed, we did not achieve the exact expected value but obtained a value very close to our
target. In this case, the discrepancy is tolerable and can be considered negligible. This deviation is due to the
significant figures used during the computation, which is why we cannot achieve perfect accuracy. Please note
that a difference greater than ±1 from the expected value is not acceptable. As your instructor, I accept a
tolerance of ±0.5.
Tension

Tension

Tension Tension Tension

2.) Method of Section:

The Method of Sections involves cutting the truss into sections and analyzing the equilibrium of
each section. This method is particularly useful when you need to find the force in specific
members without analyzing the entire structure. It is especially efficient for large trusses where
only a few member forces are required. The steps involved are:

a.) Identify the Section to cut:

- If the problem specifies certain members that you need to compute, look for it and
determine strategies you might work in order to solve it.
- Choose a section to cut of the truss that passes through no more than three members
whose forces are unknown.
- Of course, that cut section must have the members that you are aiming to get internal
forces.
b.) Determine External Reactions:
- Calculate the support reactions using the overall equilibrium of the truss (∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0,
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, & ∑ 𝑀 = 0).
c.) Cut the Truss:
- Make an imaginary cut through the truss to isolate a section.
- As you cut the truss, two section of FBD’s of the truss might be formed. Choose the
section that is not complicated to solve.
- Draw the FBD of the chosen section by removing the cut members and replace by an
arrow head line representing its own internal force. In this case you are creating an
FBD of a Coplanar, Non-concurrent force system.
- The direction of the arrow head line signifies whether it is in tension or compression:
o Arrow pointing towards joint – Compression Force
o Arrow pointing away from joint – Tension Force
- Designate a name of each axial force involve in the equilibrium of the section. It is
suggested that you name each force by combining the designation of each joint where
a certain member situate the same manner we did in method of joints.
d.) Apply Equilibrium Equations:
- Apply (∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, & ∑ 𝑀 = 0) to find the forces in the members that are part
of the cut of that section.
- Before applying equilibrium process, as an analyzer, it must be noted that you have
to assume first the direction of the axial force since it is unknown as the moment you
start to analyze the truss.
e.) Repeat, if necessary:
- If additional member forces are needed, repeat the process by selecting other
sections or using the Method of Joints for the remaining analysis.
 Problem No. 1:
Using the methods of section, determine the axial force in the members BD, BE & CE
of the truss shown in the Figure below and indicate whether the members are in
tension or in compression.

SOLUTION:
Solve for the Reactions:
FBD

∑ +↺ 𝑀𝐴 = 0, +𝐹𝑣 (12𝑚) − 1200𝑁(8𝑚) − 400𝑁(3𝑚) = 0

𝐹𝑣 = 900𝑁
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, +𝐴𝑦 − 1200𝑁 + 𝐹𝑣 = 0

+𝐴𝑦 − 1200𝑁 + 900𝑁 = 0

𝐴𝑦 = 300𝑁
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, 400𝑁 + 𝐴𝑥 = 0
𝐴𝑥 = −400𝑁

𝐴𝑥 = 400𝑁
Corrected FBD:

You may choose which section or free-body diagram (FBD) to use for your equilibrium computation.
I suggest selecting the one with a less complicated system of forces. However, for this problem, we
will solve using both sections to allow for comparison."
FBD: (Left Side)
Assumed as
Tension

Assumed as
Tension

Assumed as
Tension

3
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, − (𝐹𝐵𝐸 ) + 300𝑁 = 0 ∑ +↺ 𝑀𝐵 = 0,+𝐹𝐶𝐸 (3𝑚) − 300𝑁(4𝑚)
5
−400𝑁(3𝑚) = 0
𝐹𝐵𝐸 = 500𝑁 (T)
𝐹𝐶𝐸 = 800𝑁 (T)
4
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, (𝐹 ) + 𝐹𝐵𝐷 + 𝐹𝐶𝐸 − 𝐴𝑥 = 0
5 𝐵𝐸
4
(500𝑁) + 𝐹𝐵𝐷 + (800𝑁) − (400𝑁) = 0
5

𝐹𝐵𝐷 = −800𝑁
Final FBD:
𝐹𝐵𝐷 = 800𝑁 (C)
FBD: (Left Side)

∑ +↺ 𝑀𝐸 = 0, 𝐹𝐵𝐷 (3𝑚) − 400𝑁(3𝑚) + 900𝑁(4𝑚) = 0

𝐹𝐵𝐷 = −800𝑁

𝐹𝐵𝐷 = 800𝑁 (C)

3
∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, + 5 (𝐹𝐵𝐸 ) − 1200𝑁 + 900𝑁 = 0

𝐹𝐵𝐸 = 500𝑁 (T)

4
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, − (𝐹𝐵𝐸 ) + 𝐹𝐵𝐷 − 𝐹𝐶𝐸 + 400 = 0
5
4 Final FBD:
− (500𝑁) + (800𝑁) − 𝐹𝐶𝐸 + (400𝑁) = 0
5

𝐹𝐷𝐴 = 800𝑁 (T)

ZERO FORCE MEMBER
A zero-force member of a truss is a structural member that, under a given load condition, carries no
tension or compression force. Identifying zero-force members is crucial because it simplifies the
analysis of trusses by reducing the number of members that need to be analyzed for internal forces.

Here are the rules to identify zero-force members in a truss:

Rule 1: Two Non-Collinear Members

• If two non-collinear members meet at a joint and there is no external load or support reaction
at that joint, then both members are zero-force members.
• Example: Refer to the figure of cantilever truss, member DF & EF are the only members of
joint F. This makes their internal force non-collinear and no external load or support on this
joint. Therefore, member DF & EF are Zero-Loading Members

Rule 2: Three Members with Two Collinear

• If three members form a joint and two of them are collinear (lie along the same straight line),
then the third member (the non-collinear one) is a zero-force member, provided there is no
external load or support reaction at the joint.
• Example: Joint C is the intersection of members BC, AC & CE and it has no external loading
act on it. It is a three-member joint and the internal forces of AC & CE are collinear to each
other thus making BC a Zero-Loading Member.

BC, DF & EF are zero loading members