Analysis & loading · Frame & beam analysis
Truss solver (method of joints) calculator
Pratt, Howe or Warren truss with panel loads: every member force, colour-coded tension (blue) and compression (red).
Standard: Pin-jointed plane truss · joint equilibrium
Open the live calculator → All analysis & loading calculators
Inputs in the worked example
The live calculator starts with these values; change any of them and every result, check and diagram updates instantly.
| Input | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Truss type | Pratt | |
| Panels (even) | 8 | |
| Span | 16 | m |
| Depth | 2 | m |
| Panel point load | 20 | kN |
Worked example — results
| Result | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Members | 33 | |
| Max tension | 150.0 | kN |
| Max compression | 160.0 | kN |
| Max bottom chord | 150.0 | kN |
| Max top chord | -160.0 | kN |
| Reactions | 80.0 / 80.0 | kN |
- ✓ Statically determinate (m = 2j − 3)
- ✓ Reactions sum to applied load
Method, formulas and assumptions
- Pin-jointed members solved by joint equilibrium (assembled as an axial-only stiffness system: identical to the method of joints for determinate trusses)
- Positive = tension (blue), negative = compression (red); line width ∝ force
- Check compression members for buckling with the steel column tool
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For preliminary design and education. Check every result against the current standard and your own engineering judgement before use.