Structural Steel Design Theory
Structural engineering is a division of civil engineering dealing with the analysis and design of structures supporting or resisting loads. It implements the structural design theory of buildings and large non-building structures such as bridges, roads, dams, foundations, offshore structures, tunnels and pipelines. The engineering theory is based on the laws of physics and the characteristics of the structural performance of steel and its performance in a variety of landscapes and climatic conditions.
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Structural Design Theory
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A comprehensive understanding of structural engineering design theory requires knowledge of physics, materials science and loading to predict how structures support and resist imposed loads as well as self-weight. A practical theoretical and working knowledge of mathematics is essential in applying design codes to various structures composed of material such as steel.
Two Design Theories
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Civil Engineers in the U.S. used only the Allowable Stress Design theory for over 70 years until the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) introduced a new structural steel design theory, the Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) in 1986. Both theories build upon one another and are compatible in practical use. The strength of a structure must adequately support any intended load for which it is designed. This includes six types of service loads including weight or dead load, live load or moving load, snow, rain, wind and earthquake loads.
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Allowable Stress Design
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The theory of Allowable Stress Design ensures that the stresses developed in a structure due to service loading are contained by the use of safety factors and do not exceed the elastic limit, causing the steel to fail by bending or stretching.
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