Structural Analysis

Introduction

Structural analysis is the determination of the effects of loads on physical structures and their components. Structures subject to this type of analysis include all that must withstand loads, such as buildings, bridges, vehicles, machinery, furniture, attire, soil strata, prostheses and biological tissue. Structural analysis employs the fields of applied mechanics, materials science and applied mathematics to compute a structure's deformations, internal forces, stresses, support reactions, accelerations, and stability. The results of the analysis are used to verify a structure's fitness for use, often precluding physical tests.

Fundamentals of Structural Analysis

Structural analysis is a process to analyze a structural system to predict its performance under various load conditions. This performance involves the determination of internal forces, deformations, and reactions, which are the basis for the structure's design and maintenance. The main purpose of structural analysis is to ensure that the structure being designed will be able to withstand the loads it is subjected to, without failing or deforming excessively.

Types of Structures

Structures can be classified in a number of ways: by their type, by their structural system, by the material from which they are made, and by their use. The primary types of structures include buildings, bridges, dams, towers, tunnels, retaining walls, industrial structures, and special structures such as ship hulls, aircraft frames, tanks, and reservoirs.

Structural Loads

Structural loads or actions are forces, deformations, or accelerations applied to a structure or its components. Loads cause stresses, deformations, and displacements in structures. Assessment of their effects is carried out by the methods of statics or dynamics.

Methods of Structural Analysis

There are several methods of structural analysis, including the slope-deflection method, the moment distribution method, the finite element method, and the matrix method. Each of these methods offers certain advantages and is used in certain situations.

Structural Design

Structural design is the methodical investigation of the stability, strength and rigidity of structures. The basic objective in structural analysis and design is to produce a structure capable of resisting all applied loads without failure during its intended life.

Structural Failures

Structural failures occur when the material of a structure is stressed to a point exceeding its ability to withstand its load. Such failures can be catastrophic, especially in the case of buildings, bridges, or other structures where public safety is a concern.