Determinacy, Indeterminacy and Stability

Determinacy
a

statically determinate structure is one which can

be completely analysed using the 3 equilibrium
equations (2D)
a structure with more unknown forces than
equilibrium equations is statically indeterminate

In

other words:
1. draw an FBD
2. find total number of unknown reactions
3. compare with equilibrium equations

2D structures have 3 equilibrium equations

let n = total number of parts of the structure
let r = total number of reactions (forces and moments)

Therefore

r = 3n, statically
determinate
> Indeterminacy
3n, statically
Degreerof
indeterminate
this refers to the number of unknown reactions (or forces in
the case of trusses)

the following examples show how to calculate the degree of

indeterminacy

 Example
Classify each of the beams shown as statically
determinate or statically indeterminate. If statically
indeterminate, report the number of degrees of
indeterminacy. Assume the beams are subject to
external loads that can act anywhere on the beams.
Solution

Compound beams are composed of pin-connected

members and must be broken up into several sections
and FBDs drawn. Draw unknown reactions between the
members acting in equal and opposite pairs.

Pin-connected Structures

Frames
members are rigidly connected
some members form closed internal loops
use method of sections to cut loops apart and
draw FBD

Stability
equilibrium of a structure is not only
satisfied by equations of equilibrium
stability must also be ensured through
provision of adequate restraint at supports

Partial Constraints

sometimes a structure has less reactions than

required
structure is partially constrained

unstable

is not satisfied here- member

Improper Constraints

This usually occurs when the support reactions

are concurrent at a point or parallel

 when force P is applied sum of forces in

horizontal direction not equal to zero

 Example
Classify each of the following structures as
determinate/ indeterminate, stable/ unstable. Also
report the number of degrees of indeterminacy.
Assume the beams are subject to external loads that
can act anywhere on the beams.


Solution

NB: Application of Equilibrium Equations

For trusses and frames whose joints can be

considered to be pin-jointed, forces at joints can be

determined using equilibrium equations provided they
do not contain more members or supports than are
necessary to prevent collapse

if, as in (a), the structure remains rigid after

supports are removed then the equilibrium
equations can be used on the whole structure

But if, as in (b), the structure is non-rigid then it

must be completely dismembered and the
equilibrium equations must be applied to the
individual members

Assignment (August 2012 Supplementary Exam)

Classify each of the following structures in as, statically
determinate, statically indeterminate, stable or unstable. If
unstable, give reason for the condition