Comparison of the Strengths of Several Different Truss Designs
In our experiment we wanted to determine which truss style could support the most downward force; the Pratt, Howe, Warren, or a truss of our own design. To do this we constructed scaled models of each truss out of craft sticks and wooden dowels. We then placed each truss in a specially designed case and attached a bucket to the bottom of the truss with a chain. We slowly poured sand into the bucket until the truss broke. We recorded the trials and watched them in slow motion to determine what part of each truss failed. We found that the Warren truss supported the most force. The amount of force supported by the other three trusses varied, but not significantly.
Research Done By:
Jay Boza
Clintondale
Adam Grzankowski
Center Line
Kevin Russo
South Lake
Warren Consolidated Schools