Structural Design and Detailing

The primary objective of structural design is to ensure that a structure can safely withstand the loads it is subjected to, while also meeting the requirements for serviceability, such as deflection and vibration control.

Moment-resisting frames, braced frames, and shear walls are all common types of structural systems used in buildings. Moment-resisting frames resist lateral loads through the bending of beams and columns, while braced frames resist lateral loads through the axial forces in diagonal members. Shear walls resist lateral loads through the shear forces in the wall.

Concrete is the most commonly used material for reinforced concrete structures because it is strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Steel is also used in reinforced concrete structures, but it is typically used as reinforcement to provide additional strength and ductility.

Detailing in structural design provides specific instructions for the construction of a structure, ensures that the structure is built according to the design intent, and helps the contractor understand the design.

A beam is a horizontal structural member that is designed to resist bending, while a column is a vertical structural member that is designed to resist compression. Beams are typically made of steel or concrete, while columns are typically made of concrete or masonry.

Spread footings are the most common type of foundation used for buildings because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to construct. Spread footings are typically used for buildings with light to moderate loads.

Shear walls are designed to resist lateral loads, such as wind and earthquake loads. Shear walls are typically made of concrete or masonry and are located along the perimeter of a building.

A simply supported beam is supported at both ends, while a fixed beam is supported at one end and fixed at the other end. Simply supported beams are designed to resist bending, while fixed beams are designed to resist bending and torsion.

Reinforcement in concrete is used to increase the strength, ductility, and reduce the shrinkage of concrete.

A tension member is designed to resist tensile forces, while a compression member is designed to resist compressive forces. Tension members are typically made of steel, while compression members are typically made of concrete. Tension members are typically slender, while compression members are typically stocky.

Lintels are used to support the load of a wall above an opening, such as a window or door. Lintels are typically made of steel, concrete, or wood.

A truss is a structural framework made up of triangles, while a beam is a solid structural member. Trusses are designed to resist bending, while beams are designed to resist compression. Trusses are typically made of steel, while beams are typically made of concrete or steel.

Diaphragms are used to distribute lateral loads, such as wind and earthquake loads, to the vertical structural elements of a building. Diaphragms also provide stability to the building and support the roof.

A moment connection is designed to resist bending, while a pinned connection is designed to resist shear. Moment connections are typically made of steel, while pinned connections are typically made of concrete. Moment connections are more rigid than pinned connections.

Foundations are used to transfer the load of the building to the ground, provide stability to the building, and prevent the building from settling.