Glossar
Glossar
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AXIAL FORCE - A push (compression) or pull (tension) force acting along the length of a member [usually
measured in pounds (lbs)].
AXIAL STRESS - The axial force acting along the length of a member, divided by the cross-sectional area of
the member [usually measured in pounds per square inch (psi)].
BEARING – Anything which supports a truss; usually walls, hangers, beams or posts (shown in blue below).
BENDING MOMENT - A measure of the bending effect on a member due to forces acting perpendicular to
the length of the member. The bending moment at the given point along a member equals the sum of all
perpendicular forces, either to the left or right of the point, times their corresponding distances from the point.
Usually measured in inch-pounds.
BENDING STRESS - The force per square inch acting at a point along the length of a member, resulting from
the bending moment applied at that point. Usually measured in pounds per square inch (psi).
BOTTOM CHORD - Horizontal or inclined members that establish the lower edge of a truss, usually carrying
combined tension and bending stresses.
