Damaged Truss Analysis
Damaged Truss Analysis
(OP)
A client asked us to analyze a damage / twisted steel truss. The truss consist of pipes and walkway over a river to a dock. Not sure what caused the damage, high winds or high pipe loads, but engineering was wrong. How do you analyze a damaged with normal software. They are also asking us at what point is the truss not safe for using the walkway. Any help would be appreciated...






RE: Damaged Truss Analysis
RE: Damaged Truss Analysis
Reduced cross-sections due to damage or deterioration
Deformed geometry (especially for trusses, in compression members) -- with a lot of precise measurement and careful input
But when you're talking about significant damage, a lot of the checks you'll need to perform don't compute nicely and rely on engineering judgement to find equivalent ways to consider the demands and capacities of the existing structure.
Also remember that if you're talking about walkway safety (in what sounds like an industrial environment), you may need to consider OSHA regs (or whatever safety regulations apply) in addition to your governing structural code.
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RE: Damaged Truss Analysis