Estudio y análisis del proceso de fabricación de cerchas de acero tipo HOWE para fortalecer la productividad de la empresa FYMSA, del cantón Salcedo–Ecuador

Abstract

In the search for new design alternatives for the construction industry, it is crucial for mechanical engineers to understand improvement criteria for a thorough analysis of metal structures. Interpreting regulations is a challenge that generates problems in the development of these projects, leading to non-compliance with standards, arbitrary actions, and erroneous decisions that have, in some cases, resulted in damage to infrastructure and compromised safety. Therefore, this research is experimental in nature, and the following hypothesis was proposed: the use of Howe-type trusses in FYMSA company is feasible as an alternative in the construction of industrial warehouses, considering their design, fabrication, and assembly. A comparative analysis was conducted with the trusses commonly used in the construction of industrial warehouses. Through qualitative analysis, the situation in the company was described, and deficiencies in the manufacturing process were identified. To determine the effectiveness of using Howe trusses, a non-linear Pushover analysis was performed, determining the ductility of the structure. It was found that the elements, when subjected to critical seismic loads, did not experience rupture, and the ultimate strength (Sut) limit reflected in the performance curves was extended by 80 percent less than Warren-type trusses. As a result, it was determined that the use of Howe-type trusses is feasible.