Indeterminate Structure analysis for PM Structures

DM79 · Feb 15, 2012

Hello Friends please help.

I was referring to the Structural Analysis I & II chapters in the CERM. Was overwhelmed as did not understand the methods for indeterminate structures. Do we need to know these methods or it is too much from the exam point of view.

Also is there a good book which would help understand these methods more easily.

Please help.

TexasRedDirt · May 25, 2012

I have not taken the PE and am not familiar with if you need to know all the methods, but if I were given a choice for an indeterminate structure, I would use moment distribution in most cases. It's in the easiest and fastest. Understanding slope deflection is probably a good thing too. I probably wouldn't mess with the flexibility method. It's easy, if the structure is simple, but moment distribution is easier IMO.

civilized_naah · May 25, 2012

I can state with almost near certainty that the Structural Analysis II chapter is unnecessary studying for the PE. I am assuming, if you are overwhelmed with Structural topics/concepts, that STR is NOT your depth area. Concentrate on Statics, Strength of Materials, basic determinate structural analysis.

kozac · Jul 18, 2012

I was a bit overwhelmed by it too but only because I decided not to spend too much time on it.

dastuff · Aug 6, 2012

DM79 said:
Do we need to know these methods or it is too much from the exam point of view.

Also is there a good book which would help understand these methods more easily.

Yes, determinate and indeterminate structures will account for roughly 1/8th of the afternoon test. I would look for a good structural analysis book if you're having trouble understanding the CERM.