Building Basics: Intro to Structural Engineering

Welcome to our exploration of the fundamental forces that affect buildings!Let's begin by understanding the four main types of forces that act on buildings.First, we have compression forces, which push inward on a structural element. Think of a column supporting the weight above it.Next is tension, where forces pull outward on the element. This occurs in elements like steel cables or the bottom of a beam.Shear forces try to slide one part of an element past another, like scissors cutting paper.Finally, torsion creates a twisting effect, similar to wringing out a wet towel.Now, let's examine the different types of loads that create these forces in buildings.Dead loads are the permanent weight of the structure itself, including walls, floors, and fixed equipment.Live loads are temporary forces from occupants, furniture, and movable equipment.Environmental loads come from natural forces like wind, snow, and earthquakes.Let's examine the foundation systems that form the base of our structures.Spread footings distribute loads over a wider area, while pile foundations transfer loads to deeper, stronger soil layers.Vertical elements like columns and walls transfer loads from upper floors down to the foundation.Columns provide efficient point supports, while walls offer both structural support and space division.Horizontal elements like beams and slabs span between vertical supports and create usable floor space.These elements work together to transfer loads through the structure, from the roof down to the foundation.The post and beam system is one of the oldest structural systems, using vertical posts to support horizontal beams.Load bearing walls directly support the weight of the structure above them, providing both structural support and space division.Frame structures use an interconnected system of beams and columns, often with diagonal bracing for stability.Architects and engineers consider multiple factors when selecting a structural system.Let's compare the efficiency of these systems across different criteria.