ABSTRACT
Trusses fabricated from circular hollow sections are well recognized as being the most efficient solution for long-span structures. Often this efficiency does not translate to economy because the field joints are too expensive or take too long to connect. The author has over 30 years’ experience in the design, fabrication, and erection of long-span structures, giving him an insight into the merits or otherwise of different forms of connections. The paper shows examples of different types of welded and bolted field joints, and comments upon the critical aspects of each joint type. A summary of the relative total cost of each different type considered is included.
