Elastic Analysis of Gusseted Truss Joints

Abstract

A series of experimental investigations was performed to determine the stress distribution in basic two types of gusset plates, the maximum stress intensity and its location, and to propose a simple and acceptable method for rational gusset plates designs. Experiments were performed on eight specimens of Warren‐ and Pratt‐type truss joints with both spliced and monolithic gusset plates. Based on these test results, design formulas for determining the required gusset plates thickness are given. These design formulas are incorporated in. Tentative Design Guidelines of Gusseted Truss Joints by Honshu‐Shikoku Bridge Authority, which give the required gusset plate thickness from the following viewpoints: (1) Transmitting axial and bending forces from web members to gusset plate; (2) transmitting the shear stress resultant along the critical section; and (3) the maximum equivalent stress in the critical section.