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Method of Sections in Truss Analysis

The document discusses the Method of Section for analyzing trusses, which allows for the calculation of forces in specific members without needing to consider all members. It outlines a general procedure for selecting a cutting section, drawing the free body diagram, and applying equilibrium equations to solve for unknown forces. Examples illustrate the application of this method in determining forces in specific truss members.

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Merylle Rose Abejero
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7 views3 pages

Method of Sections in Truss Analysis

The document discusses the Method of Section for analyzing trusses, which allows for the calculation of forces in specific members without needing to consider all members. It outlines a general procedure for selecting a cutting section, drawing the free body diagram, and applying equilibrium equations to solve for unknown forces. Examples illustrate the application of this method in determining forces in specific truss members.

Uploaded by

Merylle Rose Abejero
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

UNIVERSITY OF NUEVA CACERES COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

VI. Method of Section


Another way of solving the forces exerted by the members of the truss is by method of section. If not all
members are to be computed this method is more effective. Through this method the desired force can
directly be calculated without considering the other members. Assuming members of the truss BC, BE and
BF shown in Fig. 5.3 are to be computed, a cutting plane is used passing through these members dividing
the truss into two sections. Once the truss is divided, the FBD of the cut section is drawn treating the cut
members as external forces. A maximum of three members should be cut when this method is used. After
drawing the FBD where cut members are assumed as either in tension or compression, equilibrium
equations ∑X=0, ∑Y=0 and ∑M=0 are applied to solve for the unknown members.

Figure 5. 3 Analysis by Method of Section

ANALYSIS OF PLANE TRUSSES BY METHOD OF SECTIONS


General Procedure
1. Select a section that passes through as many members as possible whose forces are desired,
but not more than three members with unknown forces. The section should cut the truss into
two parts.
2. Examine the free body diagram of the portion of the truss selected, showing all external loads
and reactions applied to it.
3. Determine the unknown forces by applying the three equations of equilibrium. To avoid solving
simultaneous equations, try to apply the equilibrium equation that involves only one unknown.

STATICS OF RIGID BODIES v.1.0 BY CHARMAINE P. NARVADEZ 60


UNIVERSITY OF NUEVA CACERES COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

Example 5.3 Solving by Method of Section


Determine the force in members CD, CF and GF of the Howe truss shown.

Solution:

Select which section to cut considering


the members needed to be computed then
compute the reaction at the support.

Consider the right section, since, there


are lesser forces on it. Once the cutting plane
has pass through the desired members, draw the
FBD of the right section treating the cut
members as external forces.
Assume directions of CD, CF and GF as
either tension or compression;

61 STATICS OF RIGID BODIES v.1.0 BY CHARMAINE P. NARVADEZ


UNIVERSITY OF NUEVA CACERES COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

Example 5.4 Solving by Method of Section


Determine the forces in members CD,AD and DE of the nacelle truss shown in the figure.

Solution:

Since, it is not possible to cut the truss passing through all the desired members, it is ideal to cut it
twice. Solve the unknown members on the first cut, then, cut again the truss considering the other
unknown member.

STATICS OF RIGID BODIES v.1.0 BY CHARMAINE P. NARVADEZ 62

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