Comparative Analysis of 3D Steel and Glulam Trusses Using ABAQUS
Abstract This study aims at developing an innovative and sustainable 3D truss system that can be applied in a variety of scenarios where intermediary propping is a hindrance. One prominent and pertinent application of such a system is in archaeological sites where long spans and no intermediary propping are desired. Previous research and studies have developed an innovative 3D steel truss for the same application. This study aims to further the innovation by providing a more sustainable alternative through Glulam and Glulam-Bamboo hybrid variations which are able to withstand similar loads as that of the steel truss but offering more sustainability and less impact on the environment as well as a light weight alternative. The results of such an alternative truss system are discussed here. One obvious problem faced with the alternative wood system was the large deflections observed and also certain regions with impermissible stresses. In addition, the proposed joint in the Glulam truss has been modelled and analyzed. It was found that the Glulam truss with lateral restraints at every quarter length of the span showed the best results in terms of deflection and stress developed. Also, the Glulam-Bamboo hybrid truss without any lateral restraints proved to be an equally effective alternative from a structural standpoint. The proposed joint system for the glulam truss also proved to be effective. The study concludes with a cost benefit analysis (CBA) between the steel, glulam and Glulam-Bamboo hybrid systems, which compares the viability of the proposed designs from an economic standpoint. The CBA shows that about 46% and 48% of costs are minimized on employing Glulam, Glulam- Bamboo respectively, instead of using Steel for the truss.