Abstract

The objective of this study is to develop the laboratory testing method for evaluating the loading capacity of lattice girder used for support in tunnel structure. 3-point flexible strength test and 4-point flexible strength test were performed on three types of lattice girder, such as LG-50×20×30, LG-70×20×30, and LG-95×22×32, mainly used in Korea. Two types of loading position for each flexible strength test were used to analyze the behavior of load-deformation. The loading distribution in the lattice girder was analyzed by means of strains measured by strain gauges attached on chords and diagonal bars. In 3-point flexible strength test, the difference of the average of maximum flexible strength according to loading position had the range from 10% to 33%. In 4-point flexible strength test, the average of maximum flexible strength according to loading position was almost no difference. The difference between the average of maximum flexible strengths obtained from 3-point and 4-point flexible strength tests was from 13.56 to 31.55%. The load applied on the lattice girder was concentrated to the main chord in 3-point flexible strength test. The load applied on the lattice girder in 4-point flexible strength test was distributed to three chords and diagonal bars.