Supports (5.2) - Roofing System - Structural Design-II
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Interactive Audio Lesson

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Types of Trusses

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Today we're going to discuss the different types of trusses that are typically used in roofing structures. Can anyone tell me why we use trusses?

Student 1
Student 1

I believe trusses help distribute loads over a larger area?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Exactly! One common type is the Pratt truss, which efficiently handles loads. Another is the Howe truss, which is better for compression. Can anyone remember what other types we have?

Student 2
Student 2

What about the Fink and Warren trusses? Aren't they used in residential roofs?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Yes, they are popular for their light weight and efficiency! Let's remember 'P-H-F-W' as a mnemonic for Pratt, Howe, Fink, and Warren.

Student 3
Student 3

Got it! How do we choose which truss to use?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Great question! Choices depend on the span, loading, and aesthetics required. This is crucial for structural integrity.

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

In summary, trusses play a vital role in roofing systems, and different types serve specific needs.

Loading Considerations

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Next, let’s address the loads that roofs must support. Who can name the types of loads we need to consider?

Student 4
Student 4

There are dead loads and live loads, right?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Correct! Dead loads are static and include the weight of the roof and trusses. Live loads vary, including maintenance or snow. What about wind loads?

Student 1
Student 1

Are wind loads only a concern for sloped roofs?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Good point! Sloping roofs do face unique uplift forces. Remember, we can summarize this as 'D-L-W' for Dead, Live, and Wind loads. Why is understanding these loads critical?

Student 2
Student 2

It helps in designing safe structures!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Exactly! Designing for these loads ensures we maintain safety and integrity in our roofing systems. Always check local codes for imposed loads as well!

Connections and Supports

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Let’s discuss how connections are critical in truss systems. What are the types of connections we talked about?

Student 3
Student 3

Bolted and welded connections!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Right! Bolted connections are easier for maintenance and assembly, while welded connections are more rigid. Can anyone tell me why we use gusset plates?

Student 4
Student 4

They connect multiple members and help to distribute forces!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Exactly! Remember, 'G-P-L' for Gusset, Plate, and Load distribution. Why is it important to specify connection types in drawings?

Student 1
Student 1

It’s to ensure everything is built correctly and safely!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Great summary! Connections must be detailed thoroughly to maintain structural integrity.

Safety and Detailing Practices

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Now, let’s touch on safety and detailing practices. Why do we need to follow codes in our designs?

Student 2
Student 2

To ensure the safety of the structure and comply with standards?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Correct! Proper detailing helps prevent failures such as corrosion. Can anyone share an example of what a detail might include?

Student 3
Student 3

Maybe showing how drainage holes are placed?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Exactly! Good detailing can prolong the life of structures, and this is why it’s essential to think ahead during design.

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

In summary, always prioritize safety and structural integrity through proper detailing in roofing system design.

Introduction & Overview

Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.

Quick Overview

This section focuses on the structural supports involved in roofing systems, discussing various types, loads, connection details, and their importance in design.

Standard

The section elaborates on the role of supports in roofing systems, detailing different types of trusses, loading considerations, connection methods, and design practices required to ensure structural integrity and safety.

Detailed

Supports in Roofing Systems

This section focuses on the supports used within roofing systems, essential to ensure strength and safety. We begin by discussing the types of trusses commonly used, including the Pratt, Howe, Fink, Warren, Fan, and North-light trusses. Each type is selected based on specific requirements such as the span, loading, and aesthetics.

1. Types of Trusses

  • Pratt Truss: Known for its efficient load distribution, ideal for longer spans.
  • Howe Truss: Efficient in resisting compression forces and widely used in floor systems.
  • Fink and Warren Trusses: Common in residential roofs due to their light weight and ease of manufacture.

2. Consideration of Loads

Supports must account for various loads:
- Dead Loads (DL): The weight of structural elements like truss members, roofing material, purlins, etc.
- Imposed Loads (LL): These include live loads from human access, maintenance activities, and environmental factors like snow and water accumulation.
- Wind Loads (WL): Change according to the roof's design, particularly on sloping roofs where uplift and suction forces apply.

3. Connections and Supports

Connections, whether bolted or welded, are crucial in ensuring load transfer from the roof to the supports:
- Bolted Connections: Provide ease of assembly and future dismantling, designed for shear and tension.
- Welded Connections: Offer continuity and rigidity but require precision in fabrication.
- Gusset Plates: Essential components that connect multiple members at joints, redistributing forces efficiently.

4. Safety and Detailing Practices

Good detailing is vital for longevity and safety:
- Clear drawings showing connection types, sizes, and load distribution improve constructibility.
- Practices like plumbing drainage holes prevent water accumulation which can lead to corrosion and structural failures.

In conclusion, the design and detailing of supports in roofing systems must adhere to codes and best practices to ensure safety, durability, and structural integrity.

Audio Book

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Pinned Supports

Chapter 1 of 5

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Chapter Content

Pinned Supports: Allow rotation but resist translation; commonly used at truss ends.

Detailed Explanation

Pinned supports are structural supports that can rotate but cannot move sideways. This means that while they can allow a structure like a roof truss to flex and adjust under load, they keep it securely in place against horizontal movements. They are typically found at the ends of trusses and serve as a key element to stabilize the entire roof structure.

Examples & Analogies

Think of a pinned support like a door hinge. The hinge allows the door to swing open and closed (rotation), but it keeps the door from sliding sideways out of its frame (translation).

Roller Supports

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Chapter Content

Roller Supports: Allow horizontal movement due to thermal expansion/contraction, reducing structural stresses.

Detailed Explanation

Roller supports are designed to permit horizontal movement caused by temperature changes. As materials expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, roller supports allow the structure to adjust without creating stress or damage. This is essential for ensuring the longevity and durability of the structure, especially in regions with varying temperatures.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a roller coaster track that needs to flex as the temperature changes. The roller coaster's wheels can move sideways on the tracks, allowing it to smoothly adapt to temperature variations without causing discomfort or danger to the passengers.

Bearing Pads

Chapter 3 of 5

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Chapter Content

Bearing Pads: May be provided under supports to cushion loads and allow minor movements.

Detailed Explanation

Bearing pads are materials placed under structural supports to absorb and cushion loads. They help distribute the weight of the structure evenly and can also allow for small movements that might occur due to shifts in the foundation or thermal expansion. This helps in minimizing wear and tear on both the supports and the structures they hold up.

Examples & Analogies

Think of a bearing pad like a comfortable cushion under a heavy chair. Just as the cushion spreads the weight of the chair and allows for slight shifts when someone sits down, bearing pads help manage the weight of the structural elements and accommodate minor movements.

Detailing Practices

Chapter 4 of 5

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Chapter Content

Detailing Practices: Drawings: Clearly show connection types (bolted/welded), member sizes, gusset plate details, and bolt/weld locations.

Detailed Explanation

Detailing practices involve precise design and documentation of structural connections and support systems. This includes creating detailed drawings that specify the type of connections used, the dimensions of the members, and the arrangement of gusset plates and bolts. These drawings are critical for ensuring the safety and performance of the structure, guiding construction, and helping to avoid potential issues.

Examples & Analogies

Consider a recipe for baking a cake. Just as a good recipe outlines every ingredient and step clearly to ensure that the cake turns out perfectly, detailed drawings in construction lay out all necessary specifications to ensure that a building is built safely and efficiently.

Practices for Safety and Durability

Chapter 5 of 5

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Chapter Content

Edge Distances and Spacing: Adhere to code minimums for durability and safety.
Drainage Holes: Prevent water accumulation in hollow members.
Protective Coatings: Prevent corrosion, especially at connections.

Detailed Explanation

For a roofing system to be safe and durable, specific practices must be adhered to. Adhering to minimum edge distances ensures that components are securely connected without risk of tearing or failure. Drainage holes are essential in preventing water from collecting inside thin-walled members, which can lead to rust and structural weaknesses. Protective coatings are vital for preventing corrosion, particularly at connection points where moisture can accumulate and cause degradation over time.

Examples & Analogies

Think of a bicycle. Just as it’s important to keep your bike well-maintained with proper lubrication and protection against rust, a roofing system needs careful attention to these details to ensure it lasts over time and performs reliably, even in harsh conditions.

Key Concepts

  • Trusses: Structural frameworks that distribute loads.

  • Loads: Include dead loads, live loads, and wind loads affecting roofing structures.

  • Connections: Bolted and welded connections ensure stability and safety.

  • Detailing: Proper detailing is essential for the longevity and integrity of roof systems.

Examples & Applications

The use of Pratt trusses in a large public building to support the roof over a gymnasium.

In residential construction, Fink trusses may be used for their space efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

Memory Aids

Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts

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Rhymes

Trusses hold the roof up high, dead loads keep it steady on the fly.

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Stories

Imagine a town that builds roofs with trusses. Each truss has a role - some are strong like the Pratt, others light like the Fink, all working together to stand tall against wind and snow.

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Memory Tools

P-H-F-W - Remember these trusses: Pratt, Howe, Fink, Warren!

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Acronyms

DL stands for Dead Load; it's what holds you down always, while LL is for Live Load that can fluctuate and sway!

Flash Cards

Glossary

Dead Load (DL)

The weight of all the structural elements in a building that remain constant.

Live Load (LL)

Variable weights acting on the structure, such as people and maintenance equipment.

Wind Load (WL)

Forces exerted on a structure by wind pressure.

Gusset Plate

A flat piece of material that connects truss members at joints.

Truss

A structural framework designed to support loads, often used in roofing.

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