Equivalent stabilizing force of members parabolically compressed by longitudinally variable axial force

Abstract

The EN 1993-1-1 model of equivalent stabilizing force qd and Rd of bracings conservatively assumes that the braced member is compressed with a force constant along its length. This assumption is incorrect since the axial force distribution varies along the length of the braced member. As a result, the braced member generates equivalent stabilizing forces different from equivalent force qd and Rd acc. to EN 1993-1-1. This paper presents parametric studies of the equivalent stabilizing forces of the braced, compression top chord of roof trusses. The girder’s top chord is compressed parabolically by a variable axial force. The values of the axial compressive forces is: Nsupp in the support zone of truss and Nspan in the central zone of truss. Parametric analyses of the equivalent stabilizing force and the stress of the purlins and the bracings depending on axial forces Nsupp and Nspan in the braced member were carried out. The investigated problem is illustrated with exemplary calculations of the equivalent force in trusses.