The Effect of Preload Loss on the Mechanical Properties of Grid Structure Connected with Bolted-Ball Joints

Bolt-ball joints are widely adopted in grid structures due to their high installation accuracy and short construction period. Since the bolt is inside joint, it challenging evaluate its health status from outside structure. A finite-element plane-truss structure model, based on actual structure, was constructed investigate influence of rod’s preload overall stiffness bearing capacity Moreover, a model with bolt-ball joint connection, analyze loss bolted-ball mechanical performance local members structures. The results show that release outer web rod less effective terms than inner rod. larger span direction plays an important role, upper chord has greater impact, while smaller no significant effect normal stress surrounding rods.