Application of the Finite Element Method Using MARC and Mentat 5-1 Chapter 5: Analysis of a Truss 5.1 Problem Statement and Objectives A truss will be analyzed in order to predict whether any members will fail due to either material yield or buckling. The geometrical, material, and loading specifications for the truss are given in Figure 5.1. Each member of the truss has a solid circular cross section. Geometry: Material: Steel Area of members 1 and 2: 30 cm 2 Yield Strength: 250 MPa Area of members 3 and 4: 20 cm 2 Modulus of Elasticity: 200 GPa Area of member 5: 25 cm 2 Poisson’s Ratio: 0.3 Loading: Vertical Load: P=18kN Figure 5.1 Geometry, material, and loading specifications for the truss. 1 m 1 m 3 m 3 m P 30 o 1 5 2 3 4