Influence the overall strength of a truss bridge?

In summary, the main factors that influence the overall strength of a truss bridge include the number of members taking loads, the angle at which the members are placed, and the distribution of loads through all members. Classic truss designs such as Pratt, Burr, king-post, and queen-post have been successful in real-life applications and can be studied for inspiration. Additionally, using free or low-cost software programs can allow for experimentation and exploration of different truss designs.
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Hi all, I've been looking at a few trusses lately and was wondering what the main factors are that influence the overall strength of a truss bridge? I have an idea that the more members taking loads, the stronger the truss, hence members should be at sharper angles. Of course i could be dead wrong, perhaps certain angles allow a better distribution of loads through all members thus allowing a greater overall load to be placed on a truss bridge? I Am looking at point-loads specifically but would be interested in moving loads as well.
 
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There are ways I might suggest.

One is to take the classic truss designs (Pratt, Burr, king-post, queen-post, etc.) and ask why they worked well enough to have been used. Try something like, for example, a bridge across a 5 meter wide creek, using different trusses. Take a walk around and find truss designs in real life, particularly railroads (they were usually cheap and strong). Study those.

The other is to download one of the free, or low-cost shareware, programs and simply "play around" with different ideas.
 

What factors can affect the overall strength of a truss bridge?

The overall strength of a truss bridge can be influenced by several factors. These include the material used for construction, the design and layout of the truss, the number and placement of diagonal members, and the type and quality of connections between the truss elements.

How does the material used for construction affect the strength of a truss bridge?

The material used for construction is a critical factor in determining the strength of a truss bridge. Different materials have varying properties, such as tensile strength and stiffness, which can greatly impact the overall strength of the bridge. For example, steel is commonly used for truss bridges due to its high strength and durability.

What role does the design and layout of the truss play in its strength?

The design and layout of the truss are crucial in determining its overall strength. The type of truss, such as Pratt or Warren, can affect its load-carrying capacity. Additionally, the spacing and angle of the truss members can also impact its strength, as well as the distribution of the load across the bridge.

How do diagonal members contribute to the strength of a truss bridge?

Diagonal members are essential components of a truss bridge as they help distribute the load and prevent buckling. The number and placement of diagonal members can greatly affect the overall strength of the bridge, and they must be carefully designed and placed to ensure maximum support and stability.

What role do connections play in the strength of a truss bridge?

The connections between the truss elements are critical for the overall strength of the bridge. These connections must be strong and durable to withstand the forces acting on the bridge. The type of connection, such as bolted or welded, can also impact the bridge's strength and must be carefully considered during the design process.

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