Purpose: Development of a computational model of stress-strain state bearing elements
of trailer frames for preliminary assessment and identification of areas with increased risk
of failure.
Design/methodology/approach: The object of the study is the processes of loading
the load-bearing metal structures of trailers - fertilizer spreaders. The stress-strain state
of the spreader bearing system is investigated for the established three typical cases of
external load. To refine the values obtained as a result of modelling, they were determined
in SOLIDWORKS.
Findings: Computational models of load have been compiled by improving the method of
minimum potential deformation energy for its effective correct use in analytical studies of a
similar type of metal structures. It is proved that for a flat closed frame structure made of
thin-walled profiles, loaded with forces perpendicular to the plane of the frame, the levelling
of compression and shear energies, as well as axial and transverse forces and bending
moments in the horizontal plane does not significantly affect the calculation results.
Research limitations/implications: Horizontal components of the shear forces as well
as the normal forces and as a consequence the corresponding potential deformation energy
are neglected, which has some effect on the accuracy of the calculations.
Practical implications: An effective tool for strength analysis with preliminary assessment
and diagnostics of load-bearing metal structures based on the constructed calculation
models of stress strain state load-bearing frames of typical geometry with an arbitrarily given
distribution of external load.
Originality/value: A universal algorithm for recording additive functions of bending and
torques, as well as the potential deformation energy of welded frames of trailers.
Problematics of stress-strain state research in units of metal structures
