Structural Loads

Definition

a load is a force or other effect acting on a structure that can cause stress, deformation, or movement.

Load = an external action applied to a structure that the structure must resist.

In static analysis, loads are usually represented as forces or moments on the Free Body Diagram (FBD).

Main types

Dead load — permanent weight of the structure itself, such as beams, columns, floors, and walls.

Live load — temporary or movable loads, such as people, furniture, and vehicles.

Wind load — forces caused by wind acting on the structure.

Snow load — weight of snow accumulated on a structure.

Seismic load — forces produced by earthquake-induced ground motion.

Thermal load — forces caused by expansion or contraction due to temperature changes.

The Structural Support/bearings develop reaction forces to resist the loads and maintain equilibrium.