Determination of prestressing levels for cable trusses as a function of their stability

Abstract

The stability of prestressed cable trusses subjected to static and dynamic loads is analysed in the paper. The stiffness of the elastic cable truss system was varied by changing the prestressing force. Modelling results for different levels of tension show that, in terms of satisfying dynamic resistance conditions, a much greater tensile force is required for cable grids with diagonal members, compared to those with vertical rods. The conclusions derived constitute recommendations for the use of calculation methods, as well as for the determination of prestressing forces under which stability criteria are fulfilled.