Loads

Loads are forces that act on a structure or component, causing it to experience stress. The term is used in a variety of fields, including engineering, architecture, and physics. Loads can be static or dynamic, and they can vary in magnitude and direction.

Types of Loads

There are several types of loads, each with unique characteristics and effects on structures.

Static Loads

Static loads are forces that remain constant over time. They include the weight of the structure itself, known as the dead load, and the weight of anything permanently attached to the structure, such as fixtures and fittings.

Dynamic Loads

Dynamic loads change in magnitude or direction over time. They include wind loads, seismic loads, and traffic loads. Dynamic loads can cause vibrations, which can lead to fatigue and failure in structural components.

Live Loads

Live loads are temporary forces that the structure is designed to support, such as people, furniture, and vehicles. Live loads can vary significantly over time and are often the most difficult to predict.

Effects of Loads

The effects of loads on a structure depend on the type of load, its magnitude, and its direction. Loads can cause structures to bend, twist, compress, or stretch. They can also cause structures to fail, either through yielding, buckling, or fatigue.

Load Analysis

Load analysis is the process of determining the loads that a structure or component is likely to experience during its lifetime. This involves considering all possible load scenarios, including worst-case scenarios, and designing the structure to withstand these loads.

See Also

• Stress (mechanics)
• Strain (mechanics)
• Structural analysis
• Structural engineering