Shaping and Ultimate Loading of Space Trusses, Shaped by Post-Tensioning Technique

Abstract

By means of post-tensioning technique, planar space trusses, particularly the single chord space trusses can be formed into curved forms. This novel process of the shape formation results in the architecturally interesting forms with the sufficient structural stability and stiffness, and with the additional advantage of being economical due to eliminating the need to use scaffolding or heavy cranes for their construction. This paper deals with the shape formation and loading tests as well as analyses of the single chord space trusses shaped by post-tensioning technique. To validate analyses and investigate effect of curvature of the shaped models on the results, two models are included; a gently curved dome-shape and a sharply curved barrel-vault. First, shape formation analysis is carried out and next, buckling load of shaped models in loading analyses are determined and findings are compared with the experimental results. Also, effect of the residual stresses of shape formation step on the results of loading analysis is investigated.