Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

A truss or a frame is an assemblage of slender bars fastened together at their ends to form a
rigid structure. Such a structure is designed to resist geometrical distortion under any applied

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system of loading.

The bars used in a truss or framed structure, also called the members of the structure, have
uniform cross-sections along their lengths, and their ends are usually joined by riveting, welding
or by nuts and bolts. However, different members in a framed structure can have different types
of cross-sections, usually resembling the letters H, I, L, or T, because they must transmit
different forces.

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(a) Commonly used Bridge Trusses

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(b) Commonly used Roof Trusses

Fig. 2.1: Some commonly used examples of trusses

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Difference between Trusses and Frames:

Before carrying out further discussion, it is necessary at this point to show the differences

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between a Truss Structure and a Framed Structure. The differences exist mainly due the way the
members are interconnected in a truss or a framed structure.

Truss Structure Framed Structure

Frame members could be columns, beams and

Truss members are rods inter-connected by pin
slabs, inter-connected by fully rigid joints like
joints.
welded or bolted connections.

A truss member can support only axial loads

and no transverse loading. i.e. truss members
can be under tension or compression only.
Frame members are designed to carry both
Also, in a truss structure, loading should be
axial and transverse loads along their lengths.
done at the joints only. A truss member cannot

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be loaded with a point load or a Uniformly
Distributed Load (UDL) along its length.

Since the truss members are free to rotate about Since the frame members are rigidly joined at
their ends and thus they do not experience their ends, the external loads cause internal
shear force and bending moments. forces like shear force and bending moments.

Since the truss members are free to rotate at

Since the frame members are connected via
their ends, therefore, a basic truss structure
fully rigid joints; therefore, a framed structure
must be of a triangular shape. Otherwise, it
could have any shape.
would be unstable and collapse under loading.

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(a) (b)

Fig. 2.2: (a) Truss Structure (b) Framed Structure

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In the remaining part of this module, we will discuss about Truss Structures only.

Since the bars used in a truss structure are slender, i.e. their cross-sectional dimensions are

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quite small compared to their lengths, therefore, to maximize the load carrying capacity of the
structure, the external loads must he applied at the joints only. This is because the slender bars in
a truss structure are less able to carry the loads acting transverse to their centerlines away from
the ends.

Plane Trusses and Space Trusses:

When the members of a truss lie essentially in a single plane and are loaded in the same
plane, the truss is called a Plane Truss. Examples of plane trusses are the sides of a bridge, a
roof truss etc.

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If a truss is made of non-coplanar members, i.e. a three-dimensional system of members, it
is called a Space Truss. One common example of a space truss is the tower from an electric
power transmission tower.

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(a) Roof trusses (b) electric power transmission tower

Fig. 2.3: Examples of plane trusses and roof trusses

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Since the members of a truss are exposed to axial loads only, therefore they remain either
in tension or in compression. And, if the weights of the members are neglected, then each

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member can be called as a Two-force member. i.e. a truss member can be either a tensile
member or a compression member.

When a truss member is in tension, it experiences a pulling effect towards its ends on either
side by external forces. Consequently, the internal forces developed by the material of the
member tend to resist this pulling effect and hence act in a sense away from the ends. Likewise,
if a member is in compression, the external forces tend to compress it at the ends and internal
forces tend to resist it. This process happens in accordance with Newton’s third law, which states
that each action is accompanied by an equal and opposite reaction, as shown in Fig. 2.4.

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(a) Member in Tension (b) Member in Compression

Fig. 2.4

Classification of Trusses:

Trusses are classified as just-rigid, over-rigid and non-rigid. If the members are allowed
to have any relative movement about the joints, then the truss is called a non-rigid truss and if
the members are not allowed any relative movement, then it is called a rigid truss. The term
rigid is used to mean that the truss is non-collapsible and that the deformation of the members
due to induced internal strains is negligible.
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A just-rigid truss is the one, which on removal of a single member becomes non-rigid. An
over-rigid truss is the one that has redundant members which may be removed to make the
truss just-rigid.

A just-rigid truss is Statically Determinate; i.e. such a truss can be analyzed by the
equations of static equilibrium alone. When more members are present than are needed to
prevent the collapse, the truss becomes Statically Indeterminate. Such an over-rigid truss
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cannot be analyzed by the equations of static equilibrium alone and deformation must be taken
into consideration when computing forces in the members. Additional members or supports

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which are not necessary for maintaining the equilibrium configuration are called redundant
members.

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Fig. 2.5

As can be in Fig. 2.5(a), when an external force is applied at joint D, the members AD, DC
and CB makes relative movement about the D and C joints; and hence the truss will collapse.
Therefore, it is a non-rigid truss. This non-rigid truss can be made just-rigid by introducing a new
member between the joints B and D as shown in Fig. 2.5(b). Again, if another member
connecting the joint A and C is introduced in the just-rigid truss as shown in Fig. 2.5(c), the truss
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becomes over-rigid. This is because, the new member AC is not a required member to prevent
any collapse and hence can be considered as a redundant member.

The most elementary just-rigid truss is the one with three members connected to form a
triangular shape. Structures which are built by pin-joining the basic triangles are known as
Simple Trusses.

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A simple plane truss may be built up from an elementary triangle by adding two new
members for each new pin joint. Similarly, a simple space truss may be built up from an

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elementary triangle by adding three new members for each new pin joint.

A simple relationship exists between the number of joints (j) and the number of members
(m) in a simple truss:

For a simple plane truss: m = 2j – 3

For a simple space truss: m = 3j – 6

The above two equations hold good for a just-rigid plane truss and a just-rigid space truss
only.

Therefore, a basic plane truss is a triangle having 3 members and 3 joints, i.e. m = 3 and j =

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3; and a basic space truss is a tetrahedron consisting of 6 members and 4 joints, i.e. m = 6 and j =
4.

Fig. 2.6: (a) Basic Plane Truss (b) Basic Space Truss

In some books, the just-rigid, over-rigid and non-rigid trusses are also termed as Prefect,
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Redundant and Deficient trusses. The Redundant and Deficient trusses can be together termed
as Imperfect Trusses. Therefore, for simple plane trusses,

 When m = 2j – 3, it is a just-rigid or Perfect Truss.

 When m ≠ 2j – 3, it is an Imperfect Truss; and in case of an imperfect truss,
 When m > 2j – 3, it is a over-rigid or Redundant Truss, and
 When m < 2j – 3, it is a non-rigid or Deficient Truss.

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Example 2.1: Consider the trusses shown in Fig. 2.7, and comment whether the trusses are just-
rigid, over-rigid or non-rigid. Also comment, if a truss is over-rigid or non-rigid, how can it be

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converted into a just-rigid truss?

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Fig. 2.7

Solution:

 In Fig. 2.7(a), j = 3, and m = 3. From equation m = 2j – 3 we get (2×3) – 3 => m = 3.

Therefore, it is a Just-rigid truss.

 In Fig. 2.7(b), j = 5, and m = 7. From equation m = 2j – 3 we get (2×5) – 3 => m = 7.

Therefore, it is a Just-rigid truss.

 In Fig. 2.7(c), j = 6, and m = 8. From equation m = 2j – 3 we get (2×6) – 3 => m = 9 > 8.

Therefore, it is a non-rigid truss since the truss has less than the required number of
members. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

 In Fig. 2.7(d), j = 7, and m = 12. From equation m = 2j – 3 we get (2×7) – 3 => m = 11 <
12. Therefore, it is a over-rigid truss since the truss has more than the required number of
members.

The non-rigid truss shown in Fig. 2.7(c) can be made just-rigid by adding one more
member connecting the joints (B, E) or (C, F) as shown in Fig. 2.8(a).

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The over-rigid truss shown in Fig. 2.7(d) can be made just-rigid by removing any one
member connecting the joints (C, E) or (D, F) as shown in Fig. 2.8(b). Also, the member CG

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cannot be removed, because in that case, BCFG element will be rectangle and not a triangle and
hence will lose its rigidity.

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Fig. 2.8

Analysis of a Truss Structure:

The analysis of a truss involves the determination of:

 The reaction at the supports.

 The internal stresses induced in the members due to external loads. This helps to work
out the size and shape of the structural members forming the truss.
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The support reactions that must exist to keep a truss in equilibrium is independent of
whether the truss is statically determinate or indeterminate. Simply regard the truss as a rigid
body to which forces are applied and solve for the reactions. Once the free-body diagram of the
whole truss has been carefully drawn, use three equations of equilibrium to determine the
reactions at the supports (six equations for a space truss).

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To design a truss, we must first determine the forces in the various members and then
select appropriate sizes and structural shapes to withstand the external loads. The stresses in the

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members of a truss are generally worked out by adopting the following methods:

 Analytical methods: Method of Joints and Method of Sections.

 Graphical Method.

While analyzing a truss, the following Assumptions are made:

 The truss is a perfect one and statically determinate.

 All the members comprising the truss are rigid, lie in the same plane, and are two-force
members; i.e. each member remains in equilibrium under the action of two forces only.
 The members are slender and of uniform cross-section.
 The external loads and reactions act at the pin joints only.

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 The self-weight of the members is neglected because the self-weight is small compared to
the loads they carry.
 The forces are transmitted from one member to another through smooth pins (no friction)
fitting perfectly in the members.

References:

 Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and
Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 166-213, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
 J. L. Mariam & L. G. Kraige (5th edition), Engineering Mechanics (Vol. 1 – Statics),
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., pp. 165-187, ISBN 0-471-40646-5. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

 Irving H. Shames (4th edition), Engineering Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics, Prentice
Hall, pp. 221-241, ISBN 0-13-356924-1.
 K. L. Kumar (3rd revised edition 2006), Engineering Mechanics, Tata McGraw-Hill, pp.
163-173, ISBN 0-07-049473-8.

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Method of Joints:

The method of joints consists of taking up one joint at a time and analyzing it for

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equilibrium. At every joint in a truss, the forces must be acting along the members connected to
that joint; and these forces must satisfy the necessary conditions of static equilibrium.

For a statically determinate plane truss structure, the solution steps using the method of
joints are as follows:

 Draw the free body diagram (FBD) of the whole truss and name the Joints using Capital
Letters. Also name the force acting in each member by writing the letters of the two ends
as subscripts of F; e.g. FAB, FBC etc.
 Determine the support reactions by using the three conditions of static equilibrium and
considering the whole FBD of the truss.

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 Then, begin the analysis with any joint that has at least one known force and not more
than two members in which the forces are unknown.
 Draw the FBD of the considered joint and assume any direction of force in the members.
Use the conditions of static equilibrium and find the magnitude of these forces. If the
final answer is positive, the assumption is correct. Otherwise, a negative answer implies
that the assumed direction of the force is wrong and the direction should be opposite.
 Finally, if the direction of force acting in a member is away from the joint to which it is
connected, the member is said to be in tension (tensile member). And, if the direction of
force is towards the joint, the member is said to be in compression (compressive
member).
 Repeat this process by moving from one joint to another until all the unknown forces in
the members have been determined.
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It is to be noted that, while determining the support reactions, three conditions of

equilibrium, i.e. ΣFx = 0, ΣFy = 0 and ΣM = 0 will be used. But, to determine the forces in the
members, we require only two conditions, i.e. ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0 since we are dealing with a
coplanar concurrent force system.

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Also, while naming the joints of the truss initially, move either clockwise direction of
movement or anti-clockwise direction around the truss, but try to avoid to-and-fro direction of

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movement.

Example 2.2: Determine the forces in all the members of a truss with the loading and support
system as shown in Fig.2.9.

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Fig. 2.9

Solution: The FBD of the whole truss to determine the support reactions is shown in Fig. 2.10.

CCʹ perpendicular to AB is drawn.

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> RAH = 0 ……… (a)

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> RAV + RB = 30 ……… (b)

ΣMA = 0 [CW +ve] Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.10
=> RB × AB = 30 × ACʹ ……… (c)

From ΔABC: sin 30o = AC/AB => AC = AB sin 30o = 5 sin 30o => AC = 2.5 m

Cos 30o = BC/AB => BC = AB cos 30o = 5 cos 30o => BC = 4.33 m

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From ΔACCʹ: cos 60o = ACʹ/AC => ACʹ = AC cos 60o = 2.5 cos 60o => ACʹ = 1.25 m

Therefore, from (c), RB × 5 = 30 × 1.25 => RB = 7.5 kN ……… (d)

From (b) and (d), RAV + 7.5 = 30 => RAV = 22.5 kN ……… (e)

From (a) and (e), RA = 22.5 kN and from (d), RB = 7.5 kN

The following FBD in Fig. 2.11 shows the name of the forces in the members and the support
reactions.

Fig. 2.11

To make the initial start, for this particular problem, we can start with any of the three joints A, B
or C, since none of them has more than two members with unknown forces. Therefore, let’s start
with Joint-A.

Joint-A: FAB and FBC are initially assumed to be tensile as

shown in this FBD of Joint-A. Clearly, it is coplanar concurrent
force system and as such we have two equations for static
equilibrium. That is,

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve] => RA + FAC sin 60o = 0

=> FAC = – RA / sin 60o = – 22.5 / sin 60o

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=> FAC = – 25.98 kN

Since the final calculated value of FAC is negative; this means the initial assumed direction of
FAC to be acting away from the joint (tensile member) is wrong and it should actually act towards
the joint (compressive member). Therefore,

FAC = 25.98 kN (compressive)

ΣFx = 0 => FAB + FAC cos 60o = 0 => FAB = – FAC cos 60o

Now, since the above expression has been derived based on the FBD of Joint-A, therefore, we
have to use the FAC = – 25.98 kN value which has also been derived directly from the FBD of
Joint-A. Thus,

FAB = – (– 25.98) cos 60o => FAB = 12.99 kN

Since, FAC is positive, this means the initial assumed direction of FAC to be acting away from the
joint (tensile member) is correct. Thus,

FAB = 12.99 kN (tensile)

Next, move on to Joint-C.

Joint-C: We already know that member AC is a

compressive member and that FAC = 25.98 kN acts
towards the joint.

For member BC, FBC is initially assumed to be acting

away from the joint C.

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> FAC sin 60o – FBC sin 30o – 30 = 0

=> 25.98 sin 60o – FBC sin 30o – 30 = 0

=> FBC = – 15 kN

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Negative sign of FBC implies that the initial assumption about its direction is wrong and it should
actually act towards the Joint-C (compressive member).Therefore,

FBC = 15 kN (compressive).

The final FBD of the truss showing the support reactions and forces in all the members with their
proper direction is shown in Fig. 2.12:

Fig. 2.12

FAC = 25.98 kN (C)

FAB = 12.99 kN (T)
FBC = 15 kN (C)

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Example 2.3: Determine the support reactions and the forces in each member of a simple
triangle truss supporting two loads as shown in Fig. 2.13.

Fig. 2.13

Solution:

The FBD of the whole truss to determine the support reactions is shown below:

EEʹ perpendicular to AB and DDʹ

perpendicular to BC are drawn.
ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> RAH = 0 ……… (a)

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> RAV + RC = 4 + 2

=> RAV + RC = 6 ……… (b) Fig. 2.14

ΣMA = 0 [CW +ve]

=> RC × AC = (4 × AEʹ) + (2 × ADʹ) ……… (c)

Since the ΔABE and ΔBCD are equilateral, therefore all sides will be of 2 m length.

From ΔAEEʹ: cos 60o = AEʹ/AE => AEʹ = AE cos 60 o = 2 cos 60o => AEʹ = 1 m

As such, AEʹ = EʹB = BDʹ = DʹC = 1 m

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Therefore, from (c), RC × 4 = (4 × 1) + (2 × 3) => RC = 2.5 kN ……… (d)

From (b) and (d), RAV = 6 – RC = 6 – 2.5 => RAV = 3.5 kN ……… (e)

From (a) and (e), RA = 3.5 kN and from (d), RC = 2.5 kN

The following FBD in Fig. 2.15 shows the name of the forces in the members and the support
reactions.

Fig. 2.15

Joint-A:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> RA + FAE sin 60o = 0

=> FAE = – RA / sin 60o = – 3.5 / sin 60o

=> FAE = – 4.04 kN

This means, FAE = 4.04 kN (compressive)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> FAE cos 60o + FAB = 0

=> FAB = – FAE cos 60o = – (– 4.04) cos 60o => FAB = 2.02 kN (tensile)

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Joint-E:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> FAE sin 60o – FBE sin 60o – 4 = 0

=> 4.04 sin 60o – FBE sin 60o – 4 = 0

=> FBE = – 0.58 kN

This means, FBE = 0.58 kN (compressive)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> FAE cos 60o + FBE cos 60o + FDE = 0

=> 4.04 cos 60o + (– 0.58) cos 60o + FDE = 0

=> FDE = – 1.73 kN

This means, FDE = 1.73 kN (compressive)

Joint-D:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> FBD sin 60o + FCD sin 60o + 2 = 0

=> FBD + FCD + (4/√3) = 0 ……… (1)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> FCD cos 60o – FBD cos 60o + FDE = 0

=> FCD – FBD + 3.46 = 0 ……… (2)

Now, (1) + (2) => 2 FCD + 5.769 = 0

=> FCD = – 2.88 kN ……… (3)

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Therefore, FCD = 2.88 kN (cpmpressive)

From (2) and (3), (– 2.88) – FBD + 3.46 = 0 => FBD = 0.58 kN (tensile)

Joint-C:

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> FCD cos 60o – FBC = 0

=> 2.88 cos 60o – FBC = 0

=> FBC = 1.44 kN (tensile)

The final FBD of the truss showing the support reactions and forces in all the members with their
proper direction is shown in Fig. 2.16 below:

Fig. 2.16

FAE FAB FBE FDE FCD FBD FBC

4.04 kN (C) 2.02 kN (T) 0.58 kN (C) 1.73 kN (C) 2.88 kN (C) 0.58 kN (T) 1.44 kN (T)

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References:

 Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 166-213, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
 J. L. Mariam & L. G. Kraige (5th edition), Engineering Mechanics (Vol. 1 – Statics),
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., pp. 165-187, ISBN 0-471-40646-5.
 Irving H. Shames (4th edition), Engineering Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics, Prentice
Hall, pp. 221-241, ISBN 0-13-356924-1.
 K. L. Kumar (3rd revised edition 2006), Engineering Mechanics, Tata McGraw-Hill, pp.
163-173, ISBN 0-07-049473-8.

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Method of Sections (Method of Moments):

The method of sections consists of hypothetically cutting the given truss into two parts by

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passing a section through the members of the truss in which the forces are to be determined.
Equilibrium of the entire truss guarantees the equilibrium of every part of the truss; and as such,
each part can be analyzed as a single FBD for equilibrium. The Section (section line) should be
selected in such a way that it “cuts” the desired members only once. Also, the section should not
cut more than three members whose forces are unknown since there are only three available
equations of equilibrium. The section can be straight or a curved one.

The method of section is particularly convenient when the forces in a few members of the
truss are required to be worked out. In this method, it is not necessary to proceed with the
calculations from joint to joint until the member in question has been reached.

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In the method of joints, we draw the FBD of each joint and find out the forces in the
members emerging out of that joint. But in the method of sections, one entire section is
considered for the FBD. Also, in the method of joints, we basically deal with a coplanar
concurrent force system. As such, we can make use of only the two conditions of static
equilibrium, i.e. ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0. But in the method of sections, since we consider a whole
section for the FBD, therefore we basically deal with a coplanar non-concurrent force system and
thus we can also make use of the condition of static equilibrium, i.e. ΣM = 0.

The solution steps under the method of sections are:

 Split the given truss into two parts by passing an imaginary section.
 Take any one part and draw its FBD assuming any direction for the unknown forces.
Name the forces after the names of the members for convenience in recognition.
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 Apply the three conditions of static equilibrium on the considered part and find out the
unknown forces in the required members.
 If the magnitude of a particular force comes out to be positive, the assumption in respect
of its direction is correct. Otherwise, a negative result implies that the assumed direction
of the force is wrong and it should actually act in the opposite direction to what has been
assumed earlier.

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It may be appreciated that the method of joints is a special case of method of sections.
When a section is chosen in the vicinity of a joint so as to enclose the joint, the section in

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question reduces to the joints only. Equilibrium of the section implies equilibrium of the joint.
The method of joint is thus the method of sections applied to enclose one joint at a time.

Example 2.4: Determine the forces in the members AC and AB of a truss with the loading and
support system as shown in Fig. 2.17.

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Fig. 2.17

Solution: First, we need to draw the FBD of the whole truss to find out the support reactions.
Since, this Example 2.4 is the same as Example 2.2, therefore, the process of finding out the
support reactions is not shown here and the values are adopted from Example 2.2 directly.

RA = 22.5 kN and RB = 7.5 kN

Now, in the method of sections, we know that the imaginary section can cut a maximum of three
members at a time of which the forces are known. But for the current example, we need to find Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

the forces in only to members, i.e. AC and AB, therefore, the section line (1) – (1) can be passed
through members AC and AB to divide the truss into two parts as shown below:

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Fig. 2.18

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Now, considering the portion of the truss to the Left Hand Side (LHS) of section (1) – (1), forces
FAC and FAB are initially assumed to be tensile, that mean, acting away from Joint-A. It is to be
noted that:

 The portion of the truss which is not considered has been shown using the dotted lines as
shown in the figure above.
 We need to name the forces only in the members which fall under the considered portion
of the truss. In this example, we need not to name the force for the member BC.
 Also, while using the three equations of static equilibrium, we need to consider the
forces, i.e. loads, reactions and member forces, which fall under the considered portion of
the truss only.
 But, we are free to calculate moment of the considered forces about any joint of the truss, Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

even if that joint does not fall under the considered portion. For the current example, we
can calculate moment of forces RA , FAB and FAC about joints B and C also, even though
these two joints do not fall under the considered LHS portion of the truss.

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Now, taking moment about Joint-B,

ΣMB = 0 [CW +ve]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> (RA × AB) + (FAC × BC) = 0

=> (22.5 × AB) + (FAC × AB cos 30o) = 0 [since BC = AB cos 30o from ΔABC]

=> (22.5 × 5) + (FAC × 5 cos 30o) = 0

=> FAC = – 25.98 kN Therefore, FAC = 25.98 kN (compressive)

Now, taking moment about Joint-C,

ΣMC = 0 [CW +ve]

=> (RA × AʹC) – (FAB × CCʹ) = 0

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> (RA × AC cos 60o) – (FAB × AC sin 60o) = 0

=> (22.5 × 5 cos 60o) – (FAB × 5 sin 60o) = 0

=> FAB = 12.99 kN (tensile)

Thus,

FAC = 25.98 kN (compressive)

Fig. 2.19
FAB = 12.99 kN (tensile)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Example 2.5: Determine the forces in the members DE, BD and BC of a truss loaded and
supported as shown in Fig. 2.20.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.20

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: First, we need to draw the FBD of the whole truss to find out the support reactions.

Fig. 2.21
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve] => RAH = 0 ……… (a)

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve] => RAV + RC = 10 + 12 => RAV + RC = 22 ……… (b)

ΣMA = 0 [CW +ve] => RC × AC = (10 × AEʹ) + (12 × ADʹ) ……… (c)

From ΔACE: sin 60o = CE/AC => CE = AC sin 60o = 5 sin 60o => CE = 4.33 m

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

sin 30o = AE/AC => AE = AC sin 30o = 5 sin 30o => AE = 2.5 m

From ΔAEEʹ: cos 60o = AEʹ/AE => AEʹ = AE cos 60 o = 2.5 cos 60o => AEʹ = 1.25 = BEʹ

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Therefore, BC = AC – AB = AC – (AEʹ+BEʹ) = 5 – (1.25 + 1.25) => BC = 2.5 m

From ΔBCD: sin 30o = BD/BC => BD = BC sin 30o = 2.5 sin 30o => BD = 1.25 m

sin 60o = CD/BC => CD = BC sin 60o = 2.5 sin 60o => CD = 2.165 m

From Δ BDDʹ: cos 60o = BDʹ/BD => BDʹ = BD cos 60o = 1.25 cos 60o => BDʹ = 0.625 m

sin 60o = DDʹ/BD => DDʹ = BD sin 60o = 1.25 sin 60o => DDʹ = 1.08 m

Therefore, from (c) => RC × 5 = (10 × 1.25) + (12 × 3.125) => RC = 10 kN ……… (d)

From (b) and (d) => RAV + 10 = 22 => RAV = 12 kN ……… (e)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Therefore, from (a) and (e), RA = 12 kN, and from (d) RC = 10 kN.

The following FBD in Fig. 2.22 shows the reaction forces at the support points.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.22

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Section (1) – (1) has been passed through members DE, BD and BC as shown in the above
figure. Considering the Right Hand Side (RHS) portion of the truss, the forces F DE, FBD and FBC

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

are initially assumed to be tensile.

Taking moment about Joint-B,

ΣMB = 0 [CW +ve]

=> (12 ×BDʹ) – (FDE × BD) – (10 × BC) = 0

=> (12 ×0.625) – (FDE × 1.25) – (10 × 2.5) = 0

=> FDE = – 14 kN

This means, FDE = 14 kN (compressive)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Taking moment about Joint-D,

ΣMD = 0 [CW +ve] => (FBC × DDʹ) – (RC × CDʹ) = 0

=> (FBC × DDʹ) – [RC × (BC – BDʹ)] = 0 => (FBC × 1.08) – [FC × (2.5 – 0.625)] = 0

=> (FBC ×1.08) – (FC × 1.875) = 0 => FBC = 17.31 kN (tensile)

Taking moment about Joint-C,

ΣMC = 0 [CW +ve] => – (FBD × CD) – (12 × CDʹ) = 0

=> – (FBD × CD) – [12 × (BC – BDʹ)] = 0

=> – (FBD × 2.165) – [12 × (2.5 – 0.625)] = 0 => FBD = – 10.36 kN

This means, FBD = 10.36 kN (tensile) Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

References:

 Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 166-213, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
 J. L. Mariam & L. G. Kraige (5th edition), Engineering Mechanics (Vol. 1 – Statics),
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., pp. 165-187, ISBN 0-471-40646-5.
 Irving H. Shames (4th edition), Engineering Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics, Prentice
Hall, pp. 221-241, ISBN 0-13-356924-1.
 K. L. Kumar (3rd revised edition 2006), Engineering Mechanics, Tata McGraw-Hill, pp.
163-173, ISBN 0-07-049473-8.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Example 2.6: A cantilever truss is loaded as shown in the Fig. 2.23. Use the method of joints to
find the forces in all the members of the truss.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.23

Solution: The FBD of the whole truss to find out the support reactions is shown in Fig. 2.24
below:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.24

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> RAH + RF = 0 ……… (a) Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> RAV = 20 + 20 => RAV = 40 ……… (b)

ΣMA = 0 [CW +ve]

=> RF × AF = (20 × AB) + (20 × AC) ……… (c)

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

From ΔAEF: sin 60o = AF/AE => AF = AE sin 60o = 6 sin 60o [since ΔAEB is isosceles]

=> AF = 3√3 m = 5.196 m

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Therefore, (c) => RF × 5.196 = (20 × 6) + (20 × 12) => RF = 69.28 kN ……… (d)

From (a) and (d) => RAH + 69.28 = 0 => RAH = – 69.28 kN

This means, RAH = 69.28 kN should act towards right.

The FBD shown in Fig. 2.25 of the truss shows the calculated values of the support reactions and
name of forces in the members:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.25

Joint-C:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> – 20 – FCD sin 60o = 0

=> FCD = – 23.09 kN

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

This means, FCD = 23.09 kN (compressive)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> – FBC – FCD cos 60o = 0

=> – FBC – (– 23.09) cos 60o = 0 => FBC = 11.54 kN (tensile)

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Joint-D:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> – FCD sin 60o + FBD sin 60o = 0

=> FBD = FCD => FBD = 23.09 (tensile)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> – FBD cos 60o – FDE – FCD cos 60o = 0

=> – 23.09 cos 60o – FDE – 23.09 cos 60o = 0

=> FDE = – 23.09 kN This means, FDE = 23.09 kN (compressive)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Joint-B:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> – 20 – FBE sin 60o – FBD sin 60o = 0

=> – 20 – FBE sin 60o – 23.09 sin 60o = 0

=> FBE = – 46.18 kN

This means, FBE = 46.18 kN (compressive)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> FBC + FBD cos 60o – FAB – FBE cos 60o = 0

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> 11.54 + 23.09 cos 60o – FAB – (–46.18) cos 60o = 0

=> FAB = 46.18 kN (tensile)

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Joint-E:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> – FBE sin 60o + FAE sin 60o = 0

=> FAE = FBE => FAE = 46.18 kN (tensile)

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> – FAE cos 60o – FBE cos 60o – FEF – FDE = 0

=> – 46.18 cos 60o – 46.18 cos 60o – FEF – 23.09 = 0

=> FEF = – 69.27 kN This means, FEF = 69.27 kN (compressive)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Joint-A:

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> – FAF – FAE sin 60o = 0

=> – FAF – 46.18 sin 60o = 0

=> FAF = – 39.99 kN

This means, FAF = 39.99 kN (compressive)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

The following FBD in Fig. 2.26 shows the forces in all the members with magnitude and
direction and also the reaction forces at the supports.

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.26

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

FCD FBC FBD FDE FBE FAB FAE FEF FAF
23.09 kN 11.54 kN 23.09 kN 23.09 kN 46.18 kN 46.18 kN 46.18 kN 69.27 kN 39.99 kN
(C) (T) (T) (C) (C) (T) (T) (C) (C)

Example 2.7: A cantilever truss is loaded as shown in Fig. 2.27. Use the method of sections to
find the forces in the members AB, AE and EF of the truss.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.27

Solution: Section (1) – (1) has been passed through the truss cutting the members AB, AE and
EF and this section divides the truss into two parts as shown in Fig. 2.28.

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.28

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Considering equilibrium of the right hand side portion and taking moment about Joint-E, we
get,

(20 × EBʹ) – (FAB × EEʹ) + (20 × ECʹ) = 0 ……… (1) [Ref. Fig. 2.29]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.29

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

In reference to Fig. 2.29,

From ΔAEF: sin 60o = AF/AE => AF = AE sin 60o = 6 sin 60o [since ΔAEB is isosceles]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> AF = 3√3 m = 5.196 m = EEʹ = BBʹ = CCʹ = BBʹʹ

From ΔEBBʹ: cos 60o = EBʹ/EB => EBʹ = EB cos 60o = 6 cos 60o

=> EBʹ = 3 m = BʹD = DCʹ

Therefore, ECʹ = ED + DCʹ = 6 + 3 => ECʹ = 9 m

Thus, from (1) => (20 × 3) – (FAB × 3√3) + (20 × 9) = 0 => FAB = 46.18 kN (tensile)

Taking moment about Joint-A,

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

(FEF × AF) + (20 × AB) + (20 × AC) = 0

=> (FEF × 3√3) + (20 × 6) + (20 × 12) = 0

=> FEF = – 69.28 kN This means, FEF = 69.28 kN (compressive)

Taking moment about Joint-B,

(FEF × BBʹ) + (FAE × BBʹʹ) + (20 × BC) = 0

=> (– 69.28 × 3√3) + (FAE × 3√3) + (20 × 6) = 0

=> FAE = 46.18 kN (tensile)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

References:

 Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 166-213, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
 J. L. Mariam & L. G. Kraige (5th edition), Engineering Mechanics (Vol. 1 – Statics),
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., pp. 165-187, ISBN 0-471-40646-5.
 Irving H. Shames (4th edition), Engineering Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics, Prentice
Hall, pp. 221-241, ISBN 0-13-356924-1.
 K. L. Kumar (3rd revised edition 2006), Engineering Mechanics, Tata McGraw-Hill, pp.
163-173, ISBN 0-07-049473-8.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Graphical Method:

After finding out the support reaction, either analytically or graphically, as already described, the

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

forces in the members of a truss can be determined graphically by adopting the following
procedure:

 Construct the Space diagram by drawing the given truss according to some convenient
scale (e.g. 1 cm = 1 m). The loads and support reaction are also shown in the space
diagram, but not to the scale, i.e. only the direction of these forces is of importance and
not their magnitudes. Name all these forces and all the members of the truss using Bow’s
Notation.
 To construct the Vector Diagram, first draw all the known forces, i.e. external loads and
support reactions according to some convenient scale. To make the start, choose any joint
in which does not have more two members with unknown forces. Draw lines parallel to

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

the members connected to that joint. Then move on to another joint following the same
criteria that the joint must not have more two members with unknown forces. Repeat this
process till all the members of the truss are drawn on the vector diagram.
 The magnitude of force in a member is determined by measuring the length of the line
drawn parallel to that member on the Vector Diagram and multiplying it with the set
scale.
 For determining the nature of the forces in the members, take any joint on the Space
Diagram, move around that joint in Clockwise Direction and accordingly obtain the
direction of the forces from the Vector Diagram.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Example 2.8: Determine the forces in all the members of a truss with the loading and support
system as shown in Fig.2.30 using the Graphical Method.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.30

Solution: In reference to Example 2.2, the reaction forces offered by the supports at joints A and
B determined analytically are written directly below:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

RA = 22.5 kN and RB = 7.5 kN

For the Graphical Solution, follow the class worksheet.

Example 2.9: Determine the support reactions and the forces in each member of a simple
triangle truss supporting two loads as shown in Fig. 2.31 using the Graphical Method.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.31

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

Solution: In reference to Example 2.3, the reaction forces offered by the supports at joints A and
B determined analytically are written directly below:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

RA = 3.5 kN and RC = 2.5 kN

For the Graphical Solution, follow the class worksheet.

Example 2.10: Determine the forces in the members DE, BD and BC of a truss loaded and
supported as shown in Fig. 2.32.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 2.32

Solution: In reference to Example 2.5, the reaction forces offered by the supports at joints A and
B determined analytically are written directly below:

RA = 12 kN and RC = 10 kN.

The above values of the support reactions can also be calculated using the graphical method. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Follow the Class Worksheet for the same.

Also, for the Graphical Solution of forces in the members, follow the class worksheet.

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-2

References:

 Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 166-213, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
 J. L. Mariam & L. G. Kraige (5th edition), Engineering Mechanics (Vol. 1 – Statics),
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., pp. 165-187, ISBN 0-471-40646-5.
 Irving H. Shames (4th edition), Engineering Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics, Prentice
Hall, pp. 221-241, ISBN 0-13-356924-1.
 K. L. Kumar (3rd revised edition 2006), Engineering Mechanics, Tata McGraw-Hill, pp.
163-173, ISBN 0-07-049473-8.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College