ABSTRACT
Trusses, in principle, behave as large beams to carry loads but are comprised of discrete members that are subjected primarily to axial loads. Joints, or nodal points, are the locations where truss members intersect and are referred to as panel points. A truss bridge is a bridge constructed using triangular units connected at joints, suspending loads through tension and compression. Traffic loads are applied to the bridge deck, which is supported by longitudinal stringers, generally placed parallel to traffic, that carry deck loads to the floor beams. Floor beams are usually set normal to the direction of traffic and are designed to transfer loads from the bridge deck to the trusses, the main load-carrying members to supports. Figure 10.1 depicts a truss bridge and terminology used.
