Experimental and Numerical Study of the Steel Space-Truss with Reinforce of the Stamped Connection

Abstract

Space trusses are very frequently used at the construction of roofs. These structures consist of steel bars, generally, connected by bolts at nodes. There are several types of connection for these 3D trusses, many are patented but others are not. In Brazil, the connection usually employed in these 3D trusses is the so called typical node, which is produced by stamping the ends of the bars, thus generating a low cost connection. This typical node is also known as a stamped connection. However, several accidents in space structures using this type of connection have also been reported in Brazil. This research presents suggestions to ensure greater safety for truss structures that use the typical node. It is proposed, initially, the use of reinforcement and constructive correction in the connection in order to increase its capacity. The bases for this are the reduction in the eccentricity and the increase in the rigidity of the typical node connection. This research, verifies, experimentally and numerically, the strength increase achieved with the proposed construction corrections with regard to static loads. At the end of work, it is concluded that the suggestions presented improve the strength and safety of steel space trusses with stamped connections.