ASTM E73
Full Name
ASTM E73 – Standard Practice for Static Load Testing of Truss Assemblies
Scope
ASTM E73 outlines procedures for conducting static load tests on truss assemblies. This standard practice plays a crucial role in verifying the structural performance and load-carrying capacity of trusses used in various construction applications.
Key aspects of ASTM E73:
- Scope: this practice applies to all types of truss assemblies, including wood, metal, and engineered wood products, used in roofs, floors, and other structural components.
- Test setup – ASTM E73 provides guidelines for:
- Support conditions: accurately simulating actual support conditions of the truss in service (e.g., pinned, roller).
- Loading methods: applying static loads incrementally to simulate design loads, such as dead loads, live loads, and snow loads. This can be achieved using various methods, including sandbags, hydraulic jacks, or dead weights.
- Instrumentation: employing appropriate instrumentation to measure deflections, strains, and support reactions during testing.
- Test procedure – the standard outlines a step-by-step procedure for conducting the test, including:
- Pre-test inspection: carefully examining the truss for any pre-existing damage or defects.
- Load application: gradually applying the load in increments while monitoring deflection and other parameters.
- Data recording: meticulously recording all measurements and observations at each load increment.
- Acceptance criteria: ASTM E73 does not specify pass/fail criteria; rather, it emphasizes comparing the test results to the truss design specifications and applicable building codes.
Benefits of ASTM E73:
- Verification of design: provides experimental verification of the truss design’s adequacy and confirms its ability to support intended loads.
- Code compliance: demonstrates compliance with building codes and standards, ensuring the safety and reliability of the structure.
- Identification of weaknesses: highlights any potential weaknesses or deficiencies in the truss design, materials, or fabrication process.
- Increased confidence: offers valuable data for optimizing designs and provides peace of mind to builders, designers, and building owners.
ASTM E73 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM E73 standard.
Contact us today to learn more about our testing capabilities and how we can support your business.
Resources
Keywords
static load testing; truss assemblies; deflection; load capacity; failure modes; safety; structural performance; design criteria; test setup; instrumentation; data analysis; load-deflection curves; stiffness; strength; stability