Analysis and design of the multi-Vierendeel-panels steel trusses with gusset plate connections

Abstract

Gusset plates are commonly used to connect chord and web members of a steel truss with a Vierendeel panel, which would impact the failure mode and overall stiffness of the steel truss. Gusset plates are important for seismic design of steel special truss moment frames and steel staggered truss frames but got little attention. This investigation established a high-fidelity finite element model for the multi-Vierendeel panels steel trusses, which was verified by large scale experimental results of a braced frame and truss with a Vierendeel panel. Then the influence of gusset plates on the load capacity and stiffness of the truss were analyzed in detail through parametric studies. Joint detailing was correspondingly proposed to prevent prior yielding and buckling of the chord flange. Formulas for calculating the cross section modulus ratio of the chord to the vertical web in the Vierendeel panel considering the gusset plate were put forward, which aimed to achieve a yielding mechanism that the vertical web members in the Vierendeel panel yield first to dissipate seismic energy. Lastly, a modified calculation model for trusses was proposed considering the gusset-plate connection region as a rigid link fixed-connected to members. This work provides a basis for the seismic design of trusses with Vierendeel panels.