A theoretical question on bracing

If two pieces of tubeing were stacked on each other and welded together would they be stronger or weaker compared to the same tubes spaced apart a few inches with short pieces of gussets between the tubes every foot or so? The load in question would be straight down.

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or
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II II II II II II
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Not a great representation :huh:
Wayne

I believe the second. I used something like that to brace my swinger, but in a truss shape/ angle.

I am astonished I wrote clear enough for someone to understand my question, but yes that is what I am talking about. I want to make a light trailer frame and plan to use 2 tubes or pipes withgussets between every foot or so or welded together. Whichever is deemed stonger. Thanks for the reply.
Wayne

Motor Head wrote: I believe the second. I used something like that to brace my swinger, but in a truss shape/ angle.

I agree, # 2 is way stronger. Make the short cross braces at 45 degree angles so that they form triangles, and it will be even better.

Yup, the further apart your tubes are, the stronger they will be in bending. Which is where most of the stress in any structure like that comes from. Make triangles as testa says and you'll be good to go.

To answer your question , IF we only have 2 choices , then #2

# 3 would be 1 "I" beam and do away with a bunch of welding.

Mike

Thanks guys. I have a bunch of pipe. I plan to build a light ice fishing shanty with pull up wheels.
Wayne

Silly me :laugh:
I thought it was for a bike trailer.

MDawnz1 wrote: Silly me :laugh:
I thought it was for a bike trailer.

Actually I am going to make the door wide enough to accommodate one bike. The trailer will lay down so it will be easy to use.
Wayne