Belfast Truss
The Belfast Truss is truss consisting of a lower horizontal member or tie-beam and a curved upper member or bow which has smaller intersecting members at various points, in a fan grid or lattice-like pattern. The upper curved member has a radius which is half that of the setting out point for the fanning lines.
It is believed this type of truss was first built as early as 1860 from timber and used with a standard roof finish on board. It is a common feature of many agricultural and industrial buildings across Ireland and the UK in general. Historical examples of this type of truss can still be found in at Leuchars Aerodrome near Fife and Hooton Park Aerodrome in Cheshire / Merseyside. This type of truss is able to span distances of up to 36 metres.
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