Equilibrium of rigid bodies: Part 3

Two-force and three-force members:

 

Examples of Two-Force Members are shown in the figure.

For two-force members we have:

  • No couple moments,
  • Forces applied only at two points.

 

Equilibrium requires that the forces in a two-force member be equal and in opposite directions.

 

If member is subjected only to three forces, the forces should be either concurrent or parallel for member to be in equilibrium.