The truss is one of the major types of engineering structures. Frames and trusses provides both a practical and economical solution to many engineering problems, especially in the design of bridges and buildings. A truss consists of thin, slender members which are pin connected at the ends, thus forming a joint. The loads act only on the join and not on the members. The following are the basic types of trusses:
The planar truss - is simply a two-dimensional truss which lies in a single plane
A space Frame truss is simply a three-dimensional truss. Actual structures are made of several two-dimensional trusses join together to form a space frame
The following are the main application of trusses:
Roof trusses are the most common and widely used applications of the truss. Such a truss is designed to carry a load of a roof at its top. Timber roof trusses are the most popular type of framework used to support the roof. They are made from the highest quality of H2 timber dressed for termite and weather protection. Timber frames are lightweight, perfectly cut and have to meet certain construction standards.
A bridge truss is used to support the floor of the bridge. There are different type of bridges where bridge trusses are used. Railway and Road bridges are usually bridge trusses.
The electrical transmission towers are also a widespread application of trusses - they are simply a vertical steel truss. Such a truss carries the load and tension of the heavy electrical cable suspended on them.
The microwave transmission towers are also an important application of vertical trusses. Such a truss carries the load of the heavy parabolic antennas