MADHAV INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY &

SCIENCE
Gwalior (M.P.)

Truss bridge structure analysis by using Finite element

method
Presented by-
RAHUL VYAS
Enroll. No. – 0901CE15MT22
Under Guidance of -
Dr . M.K. Trivedi
Professor & Head of Civil Engineering Department
 Contents
• Abstract
• Introduction
• Objective of the work
• Literature Review
• Finite Element Analysis
• FEA Software - ANSYS
• Results & Discussion
• Conclusions
• References
 ABSTRACT
 The Purpose of this investigation is focused on alerting structural engineers to the
possible distortions, associated to the steel and composite bridge service life, when
subjected to vehicles dynamic actions.

 In this study, effort has been made to analyze two types of bridge structure i.e. Pratt truss
& Lattice truss with two different sections (“I” Section & “C” Sections) by applying
various loads at the frame of two trusses.

 This work focuses on the analysis of truss bridge structure which is most widely used in
steel bridge as railway and pedestrian crossings .
The basic emphasis has been given to check the total deformation and direct stresses
between two types of bridge structure with “I” section and “C” section.

Eight node solid element is selected and meshing is done individually for each modal. The
material property of each material is selected as per literature database in Ansys software .

The analysis in Ansys is completed to attain the total deformation and mode shapes of
bridge structure to stay away from the failure of the bridge. As per study ,we found out that,
the major variations in truss structures .

Pratt truss have less deformation and stresses as comparison to Lattice truss and Minor
variations have found in ‘C’ section with less deformation and stresses as comparison to “ I”
section in both Pratt bridge truss structure and Lattice bridge truss structure .
 INTRODUCTION
 A bridge is a structure that crosses over a gorge, street, river, railway, or other
obstructions, permitting smooth and secure passage of cars, trains and pedestrians.

A pedestrian railway bridge is a connection planned for pedestrians and in a few

instances’ cyclists, animal site visitors and horse riders, instead of vehicular passage.
Pedestrian bridges set off the scenery and may be used decoratively to visually hyperlink
wonderful areas or to indication a transaction.

Plain suspension bridge modeling had been superior to be sustainable and naturally
constructible in such rural areas the use of most efficient nearby material and hard work.

Truss systems are composed of individuals that are connected to shape an inflexible
body of metallic. This extensive application can be used in many areas, along with
pedestrian crossing bridge, Rail Street and other transportation bridges.

The person individuals of a truss bridge are the burden wearing components of the
structure, they are arranged in a triangular way ensuing in the hundreds carried to grow to
be both in tension or compression. Today bridge is used for many purposes, due to the fact
that they're easy to collect and low in cost.
 Steel Truss
 Steel is broadly used around the world for the development of bridges of various sizes. It is a
flexible and powerful material that offers green and sustainable answers. Steel has long
been known as the financial option for a variety of bridges.
 It dominates the markets for long-span bridge structure, railway bridges, footbridges, and
medium span dual carriageway bridges.
 It is now increasingly more the selection for shorter span dual carriageway systems as
properly. Society receives in many ways from the profits brought with the aid of metal bridge
answers.
 The individuals of a truss may be arranged in a nearly unlimited wide variety of ways, but the
big majority of trusses encountered in bridge belong to one of the commonplace kinds listed
under. Some of these commonplace varieties of trusses are the Baily truss, Lattice truss, with
verticals, subdivided Lattice truss, the Pratt truss, subdivided Pratt (Baltimore) truss, K truss,
and the Howe truss.
Figure 1: diagram steel truss bridge (Lattice truss)
 OBJECTIVES OF THE WORK
 To develop the geometry of the Pratt truss and Lattice truss Model using Ansys software

 To study Bridge truss structure with ‘I’ section or ‘C’ section.

 Find out the maximum deflection and stresses due to load applied on bridge structure.

 To study the static structural behavior of Bridge truss frame under action of loading.

 There is a need to investigate various methods to minimize this horizontal displacement.

 Hence the goal of the work is to understand the structural behavior of Bridge Truss
Structure Analysis subjected to applied forces.
 LITERATURE REVIEW
 K. Senthil et. al. (2017) The impact of intensity of primary girder turned into studied
by using varying the intensity as 1600, 1400, 1200 and a thousand mm. The
responses of bridges become studied through dividing the span of the bridges into
two considering as strengthening measure. In addition to that the reaction of bridges
become studied by using doing away with cross girders inside the center of the
bridges thinking about as the contributors are damaged due to corrosion or member
failure circumstance.

 Alpesh Jain et. al. (2016) studied a bridge structure with four different material
using ANSYS software and to perform a modal evaluation of bridge Design. The
modal evaluation in ANSYS is accomplished to achieve the natural frequency and
mode shapes of bridge to keep away from the resonance of the bridge. It is concluded
that the bridge isn't to be utilized at received frequencies which might be same to
natural frequency at applied hundreds. If it is used at natural frequencies, resonances
will occur and bridge may harm or fail. The future scope consists of temporary
evaluation and harmonic analysis of bridge, additionally the deflection of the bridge
with time may be obtained with FEA software approach.
 Alika Koshi et. Al. (2016) studied approximately comparison of through arch bridge
at various arch positions. An arch is a pure compression form. It can span a massive
area by way of resolving forces into compressive stresses and, in turn casting off
tensile stresses. This is on occasion known as arch motion. As the forces inside the
arch are carried to the floor, the arch will push outward at the bottom, known as thrust.
Arch peak has a wonderful significance inside the carried forces and stresses. This
study explains the behavioral components of thru arch bridge with special arch
positions and to evaluate them with the actual structure by way of the usage of three-D
bridge model in Finite Element Analysis software program – ANSYS.

 L. Prabhu et. al. (2018) In this study, the heat transfer performance of fin is analyzed
by ANSYS workbench for the design of fin with various design configuration such as
cylindrical configuration, square configuration and rectangular configuration. The heat
transfer performance of fin with same base temperature having various geometry is
compared. In this thermal analysis, Aluminum was used as the base metal for the fin
material and for various configurations. Fin of various configuration are design with
the help of CATIA V5R16 software Analysis of fin performance done through the
software ANSY 15.0. On comparison, rectangular configuration provides the greatest
heat transfer than that of other configurations having the same volume. The
effectiveness of rectangular fin is greater as compare to another configuration of fin
 Darius Bačinskasa et. al. (2017) Experimental investigation of structural behavior of glass
fiber strengthened polymer (GFRP) area truss bridge version subjected to static loading is
mentioned on this take a look at. Bridge prototype become assembled the use of GFRP
profiles produced with the aid of fiberline Composites Ltd, metallic bolts and GFRP
brackets. In order to load the shape, wooden bridge deck turned into mounted. Total load
of 13.3 KN was implemented in 4 ranges while measuring the bridge node displacement.
Flexural behavior of the truss shape changed into monitored at every loading stage.
Comparative analysis has proven right agreement between experimental and numerical
outcomes. The acquired consequences display that designed and tested bridge model
has a sufficient reserve of structural stiffness. Performed research well-known shows that
GFRP profiles are suitable for real pedestrian bridge superstructures.
 Huili Wang et. al. (2017) The fatigue performance of steel truss integral
joint is analyzed based on multi-scale FEM. Numerical results are verified
with experimental ones. The fatigue performance of steel truss integral joint
is analyzed using a sea-crossing suspension bridge as its background. The
connection elements are used to connect the beam elements and three
dimensional elements. The connection element has two joints, one of which
has six degrees of freedom, three translation degrees of freedom and three
rotational degrees of freedom, all degrees of freedom being coupled. The
multi-scale FEM and the experimental one yield very close results The
multi-scale FEM can provide an accurate simulation of the main research
part and ensure the fatigue life forecast so as to simplify the calculation. This
method is high efficient and feasible. The multi-scale FEM provides a new
and reliable method for the fatigue performance of structure analysis.

 Emdadul Hoque et. al. (2017) studied harmonic response of the model of a
simply supported steel truss bridge as a mechanical structure. The geometric
modeling and the simulations were done by using ANSYS Workbench 15.0.
The natural frequencies were determined by means of modal analysis for the
first fifteen modes whereas the harmonic response was observed by
subjecting the bridge to an excitation sinusoidal force of 100N distributed
over the deck of the bridge with an analysis range of 0-1000Hz.
 Introduction of Finite Element Method
The FEM approach is an effective tool to achieve the numerical solution of extensive
variety of engineering applications. The approach is general sufficient to handle any
complicated form or geometry, for any substance under various boundary and loading
circumstances. The generality of the finite element method suits the evaluation necessity
of today’s complicated engineering structures and designs wherein closed form answers
of governing equilibrium equations are usually not obtainable. In addition, it is an
efficient drawing tool through which designers can carry out parametric design studies
through allowing for various design cases, (different shapes, Geometries, etc.) and
investigate them to select the optimal design.

The fundamental idea concept of finite element approach is that a body or structure may
be divided into small elements of finite dimensions called “finite elements”. The original
frame or the structure is then taken into consideration, as an assemblage of those factors
linked at a finite amount of joints called nodes or nodal points.
 Steps in FEM
I. Preprocessing
a) CAD modeling/ Use of Solid work software
b) Import model in Ansys
c) Meshing
Element selection
Meshing
Defining material properties
Mesh sizing
Generation of mesh
d) Defining boundary condition
II. Solution or Analysis
Solve
III. Post processing
The results can be viewed in various formats: graph, contour
profile, 3d view, value, animation etc.
 Overview Of The Program:
The ANSYS software is flexible, robust layout evaluation and optimization package
deal

ANSYS layout information get admission to allow consumer to import computer

aided design models in to ANSYS

The software program operates on major computers and running structures,

from PCs to workstations and to top notch computer systems

Although the ANSYS software has tremendous and complex competencies,

its corporation and person-pleasant graphical presentation interface makes it
smooth to research and use.

There are four GUI methods to instruct the ANSYS software:

(1) Menus
(2) Dialog Boxes
(3)Tool bar
(4)Direct input of commands
 Procedure for ANSYS analysis
 Static evaluation is used to determine the displacements, stresses, strains and
forces in structures or components because of hundreds that don't set off vast
inertia and damping outcomes.
 A static analysis may be either linear or nonlinear. In our present work we do
not forget linear static analysis.

 The procedure for static analysis consists of these main steps:

1. Building the model.
2. Obtaining the solution.
3. Reviewing the results.
ANALYSIS OF TRUSS STRUCTURE
Modeling of Truss

Layout of ANSYS Workbench

Model Generation

Modeling of Truss Model

Analyzing the model in ANSYS

Meshing the model

Applying Boundary conditions for analysis Truss Model using ANSYS
 Modeling of Bridge structure
Modeling of the designs of bridge truss structure using ANSYS Workbench has
been explained in detail. The intention of finite element investigation is to
reconstruct the mathematical behavior of an actual engineering structure. The
model comprises all the nodes, elements, material properties, real constants,
boundary conditions and additional features that are used to characterize the
physical system. First model be generated then specific boundary conditions will
be applied on the specific nodes then final analysis will be conducted.

Two types of bridge structure Pratt bridge truss structure and lattice bridge truss
structure are analysed here, and sections used for bridge i.e. ‘I’ section and ‘C’
section used to analysed bridge. Firstly, bridge analysis by using ‘I’ section beam
and then second bridge analysis by using ‘C’ section of beam. Geometry of ‘I’
section and ‘C’ section are described below. Structural steel used as material for
designing of bridge structure.
Figure 2: Dimensions of ‘I’ Section and ‘C’ Sections in Ansys
 Dimensions of bridge truss

Table 1: Dimensions of bridge truss structure

Bridge Type Length (mm) Height (mm) Width (mm)

Type ‘A’ 10000 1250 3200

Type ‘B’ 10000 1250 3200

‘I’ Section Bridge :

Bridge truss designed using ‘I’ section of two types, Truss Type ‘Pratt’ and Truss
Type ‘Lattice’. Figure shows the design of ‘I’ Section Bridge.

‘I’ Section Bridge of Pratt Type ‘I’ Section Bridge of Lattice Type
‘C’ Section Bridge :

Bridge truss designed using ‘C’ section of two types, Truss Type ‘A’ and Truss
Type ‘B’. Figures shows the design of ‘C’ Section Bridge. .

‘C’ Section Bridge of Pratt Type ‘C’ Section Bridge of Lattice Type
Meshing of Bridge Models
 Applying boundary conditions
Applying boundary conditions on bridge, one end of bridge kept fixed support and, on
another end, applying 100 KN,200 KN, 300 KN, 400 KN, 500 KN load. In Type ‘Pratt and
Type ‘Lattice’ bridge structure.
Figures shows the applying boundary conditions on the bridge structure Type ‘A’ and Type
‘B’.

Applying Boundary conditions on Pratt Type Bridge Structure.

Displacement and Fixed support on Pratt Bridge Truss Structure
Applying Boundary conditions on Lattice Type Bridge Structure.
Displacement and Fixed support on Lattice Bridge Truss Structure
 TEST RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The deflection occurred in bridge structure model is optimized and
compared. Two types of section used in bridge element designing i.e. ‘I’
section and ‘C’ section. In ‘I’ section two type of bridge structure used for
study i.e. Type ‘Pratt’ and Type ‘Lattice’ also in ‘C’ section two section two
type of bridge structure used for investigation i.e. type ‘Pratt’ and Type
‘Lattice’.
 Total Deformation of Bridge Model

‘I’ Section Pratt Bridge Truss deformation

‘I’ Section Lattice Bridge Truss Deformation
‘C’ Section Pratt Bridge Truss Deformation
‘C’ Section Lattice Bridge Truss Deformation
 Total Deformation
‘I’ Section Bridge truss Structure deformation variations due to load

Load (N) Pratt ‘I’ Section Deformation (mm) Lattice ‘I’ Section Deformation (mm)

100000 0.306 0.37152

200000 0.612 0.74303

300000 0.917 1.1145

400000 1.223 1.4861

500000 1.529 1.8576

 Total Deformation
‘C’ Section Bridge truss Structure deformation variations due to load

Load (N) Pratt C Section Deformation (mm) Lattice C Section Deformation (mm)

100000 0.305 0.37013

200000 0.61 0.74026

300000 0.915 1.1104

400000 1.22 1.4805

500000 1.525 1.8507

Comparison Deformations of Pratt and Lattice Type Bridge truss structure
‘I’ Section Bridge truss Structure Stress variations due to load

Load (N) Pratt ‘I’ Section stress (N/mm2) Lattice ‘I’ Section stress (N/mm2)

100000 3.4635 3.9777

200000 6.927 7.9555

300000 10.39 11.933

400000 13.854 15.911

500000 17.317 19.889

‘C’ Section Bridge truss Structure stress variations due to load

Lattice C Section
Load (N) Pratt C Section stress (N/mm2)
Stress (N/mm2)

100000 3.4549 3.9671

200000 6.9099 7.9341

300000 10.365 11.901

400000 13.819 15.868

500000 17.274 19.835

Comparison Stresses of Pratt and Lattice Type Bridge truss structure
Comparison of Pratt truss Deformations in ‘I’ and ‘C’ Sections
Comparison of Lattice truss Deformations in ‘I’ and ‘C’ Sections
 As per above study it is shows that Pratt bridge truss structure having lower
deflection due to applied load.
 From this we can conclude the ANSYS analysis for this truss is very insightful. The
study has addressed the possibility of analysis and design of steel bridges with
locally available steel profiles. Based on the analysis and design made so far, the
study has proved that, construction of steel bridge with locally available steel
profiles is an option worth, even though the cost of local production is closer to
importing it is still a good option since it helps in the capacity building of local
design, fabrication and construction firms, creates job opportunities for many
people.
 In Pratt truss structure deformation results nearly similar in ‘I’ section and ‘C’
section. Same in lattice Truss structure but maximum Variations found in between
Pratt truss structure and lattice truss structure. Maximum stresses found in Lattice
truss structure in comparison of Pratt structure.
 Conclusion
The ANSYS analysis for this steel truss is done based on the standard loading
system. Results are within the limited preconditions sated by the standard value.
From this study we can conclude the ANSYS analysis for this truss is very
insightful. The study has addressed the possibility of analysis and design of Truss
bridges structure with locally available steel profiles. Even though the cost of local
production is closer to importing it is still a good option since it helps in the
capacity building of local design, fabrication and construction firms, creates job
opportunities for many people and is a saving in foreign currency.

The following conclusions can be stated based on the evaluation of the analyses.
• When we compare Pratt truss structure with I and C section at maximum applied
load of (500 KN), Deformation in Pratt truss with ‘I’ section is 1.529mm and
stresses are 17.317 N/mm2.

• As per Analysis , Deformation in Pratt truss with ‘C’ section is 1.525mm and
stresses are 17.274 N/mm2. After analyzing both section results, we found out, Pratt
truss structure with ‘C’ section having less deformation and stresses. During this
study we observed that Pratt truss with ‘C’ Section is good for designing purpose.
 When we compare the results of Lattice truss structure with ‘I’ and ‘C’ section at
maximum applied load of 500KN, Lattice truss with ‘I’ section deformation and stresses
are 1.8576 mm and 19.889 N/mm2. After that as per analysis results of both sections
describe a difference between both sections, as a civil engineer we do not neglect minor
variations. As per study ‘C’ Section have less deformation and stresses as comparison to
‘I’ section in both Pratt bridge truss structure or lattice bridge truss structure.

The comparison between Pratt truss with ‘I’ section and Lattice truss with ‘I’ section,
found results of Pratt truss with ‘I’ section deformation and stresses at 500 KN load are
1.529 mm and 17.317 N/mm2. Also, for Lattice truss with ‘I’ section deformation and
stresses at 500 KN load are 1.8576mm & 19.889 N/mm2.

Here, Pratt truss with ‘I’ section having above study Pratt truss with ‘I’ section is good
for designing Purpose. When we done comparison between Pratt with ‘C’ section to
Lattice ‘C’ the results at 500 KN are Pratt truss with ‘C’ section deformation and stresses
at 500 KN load are 1.525 mm and 17.3274 N/mm2. Also, for Lattice truss with ‘C’
section deformation and stresses at 500 KN load are 1.85707 mm & 19.835 N/mm 2.
Here, results show that Pratt with ‘C’ section having minimum deformation and stresses
as per above study Pratt truss with ‘C section is good for designing purpose.
Scope of Future work

1.The same study can be performed for RCC Bridge, prestressed bridge.
2.Comparison can be made for seismic performance combined with moving load.
3.We can use different type of trusses during analysis.
4.This study can be performed on old truss structure for monitoring
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