Experimental and numerical study on lateral stability of temporary structures

This paper investigates the lateral performance of temporary structures, which consist of slender members and corresponding joints, under both vertical and horizontal loads. The ultimate bearing capacity, failure modes and the strain distribution of members are illustrated. Experimental results indicate that the lateral stability of the temporary structures is weaker than the vertical stability. Diagonal bracings are the main load-bearing members which resist horizontal loads while the horizontal bars are used to keep stress low. Based on the joint mechanical parameters and the probabilistic models of initial geometric imperfection, the stochastic finite element models (SFEMs) using the Monte Carlo method have been established. The models can consider the semi-rigid performances of joints and initial geometric imperfection. The numerical results demonstrate consistency with structural tests data. Moreover, the influences of structural layers and spans are analysed based on the SFEM. Multiple factors, including spans, layers and upper vertical loads, should be considered when the lateral capacity of temporary structures is calculated. A rapid prediction formula of the lateral stability of temporary structure has been obtained.