Double Chords as an Alternative in Tubular Trusses

Abstract

In many applications for which planar tubular steel trusses are considered appropriate, chords consisting of double rectangular hollow sections (RHS) have several advantages over their single‐chord counterparts. For unequal‐width K‐ and T‐type connections gapped between branch members, it is shown that the double‐chord. configuration has frequently twice the strength, or more, of equivalent single‐chord joints. From the standpoint of localized deformation, much stiffer joints are possible with double‐chord RHS truss systems. Typical design examples of Vierendeel and Warren trusses demonstrate the structural superiority of double chords compared with their single‐chord analogues for the spans examined. Economic benefits are also likely to be realized with the design concept proposed.