Load Path Analysis
When it comes to engineering buildings the engineer must take into account all the potential load conditions. Typically those are gravity dead, live and snow loads and the lateral loads from wind and Earthquake. The structural engineer must design a rational and reliable way for those loads to be transmitted to the foundation, or what is known as the load path.
What Is a Load Path?
The load path refers to how the load of a building is transferred down through the structure. This path starts at the highest point of the structure and goes all the way down to the foundations. The path passes through all connected members along the way. Load path analysis allows an engineer to determine the path of maximum stress in a non-uniform, non-load-bearing member in response to an applied load.
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There are two separate load paths that need to be considered:
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Gravity Loads – this addresses all vertical loads. This includes things such as snow, soil, rain, or ice, as well as dead loads and live loads.
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Lateral Loads – lateral loads come from things such as wind or seismic forces. Lateral loads are transferred to the walls and then down to the foundation where it is transferred to the surrounding soil.
Why Is It Important?
Without a trained engineer analyzing the load path of a building, it may lead to the progressive deterioration of the building structure. Load path issues often show up as connection failures, displacement, or flaking concrete. It also can lead to a misguided focus on addressing symptoms rather than the root cause of problems.
Proper load distribution ensures the stability, safety, and performance of a building. It contributes to the longevity and resilience of a given structure. Load path analysis is a critical part of a successful construction job.
If you have any questions about load path analysis, feel free to give me a call.
