Buckling Strengths of Gusseted Truss Joints

A series of experimental investigations of the elastic stress distribution in gusset plates have been conducted over the years. The design codes for the gusseted joints of the stiffening girder of the Honshu‐Shikoku suspension bridge were based on these investigations. Because of the flexibility of long‐span suspension bridges, due regard must be paid to the mechanical properties beyond the elastic range. This report deals with the mechanical properties of gusseted joints up to the ultimate state by using eight test specimens. The load‐carrying mechanism is examined in relation to the stability of gusseted joints; the development of plastic zones, local buckling strength, and ultimate strength are also discussed. Safety factors for ultimate strength and the proposed thickness of gusset plates based on buckling analysis are examined both experimentally and numerically by the finite element method.