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SYSTEM 

"A controlled set of integrated components designed to perform a specific function."

The typical interconnecting system of concrete framing can be split into four main components - the slab, beams, columns and foundations. These components transfer live and dead loads through the system to the foundation. The two main loads experienced by a building are static and dynamic Loads.

Static Loading

Dead Loads: Dead loads include the weight of the materials used in construction for structural or aesthetic purposes. In general, dead loads are considered permanent loads.

  • Construction Materials: The load applied from the weight of members used to compose the structure

  • Settlement Loads: Stem from the different supporting ability of the soil under the structure.  These loads cause differential settlement which creates cracks in the concrete

  • Thermal Loads: Result from a change in temperature which can cause the size of the structure to increase

  • Wind Loads: Typically Lateral loads applied due to differential force of the wind on the verical side

Figure S1: Static Load of a Structure

Dynamic Loading

Live Loads: Loads produced through use of the structure, This can include the weight of occupants, furniture, stored material and equipment along with environmental loads. Typically these act in a vertical direction

  • Wind Load: In the case of a storm a wind load could be considered as a dynamic load if intensity increases dramatically

  • Seismic Load: Load experience due to a natural event such as an earthquake

  • Impact Load: Load occuring by moving occupants, vehicles or machinery may cause

Figure S2: Dynamic Loading from a Truck 

Structural system

Slabs: Horizontal "slabs" of reinforced concrete typically make up the floors and ceiling and are between 4 to 20 inches thick. 

Beams: Horizontal members that carry vertical loads by resistance to bending thus transferring the load to the columns.

Columns: Vertical reinforced concrete designed to carry compressive loads transferred from the slab and beams.

Foundation: A platform made of concrete that transfers the load to the soil or substructure below.

© 2014 AE-390, Group 9.
 

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