Basic Structures

Acknowledgements ix

Introduction x

1 What is structural engineering? 1

2 Learn the language: a simple explanation of terms used by structural engineers 8

3 How do structures (and parts of structures) behave? 11

4 Force, mass and weight 26

5 Loading â" dead or alive 32

6 Equilibrium â" a balanced approach 38

7 More about forces: resultants and components 43

8 Moments 54

9 Reactions 67

10 Different types of support â" and whatâs a pin? 73

11 A few words about stability 81

12 Introduction to the analysis of pin-jointed frames 93

13 Method of resolution at joints 98

14 Method of sections 119

15 Graphical method 127

16 Shear force and bending moments 137

17 This thing called stress 168

18 Direct (and shear) stress 173

19 Bending stress 184

20 Combined bending and axial stress 205

21 Structural materials: concrete, steel, timber and masonry 218

22 More on materials 229

23 How far can I span? 235

24 Calculating those loads 242

25 An introduction to structural design 252

26 More on structural types and forms 291

27 An introduction to deflection 310

28 Shear stress 324

29 Buckling and torsion 333

30 Frames and three-pinned arches 344

31 Virtual work 356

32 Squares and circles of stress: An introduction to Mohrâs Circle 363

33 Trusses (no numbers) 380

34 Plastic analysis 388

Further reading 402

Appendix 1: Weights of common building materials 403

Appendix 2: Conversions and relationships between units 405

Appendix 3: Mathematics associated with right-angled triangles 407

Appendix 4: Symbols 409

Appendix 5: A checklist for architects 410

Appendix 6: Getting more out of civil engineering 411

Index 413