by Jaime R. Rico

BEAMA structural member*, usually horizontal,

which supports bending.

A smaller ‘beam’ between two beams is called joist.

PILLARA structural member, usually vertical, which

supports compression.

BEAM

PILLAR

FOOTINGA wider base under the pillar which spreads

the load.It reduces the pressure over the soil.

MAT

TIECable* used to hang beams or to mantain a

pillar vertically. It supports tension.

Tie

Exercise #1Say the name of each structural elements

Exercise #2Say the name of the following structural elements

ARCHIt’s shaped like an inverted U.It transmits vertical loads to the foundation

KEYSTONE

ARCH, VAULT & DOME

TIE and STRUTA tie is any structural member supporting

tension.A strut is any member supporting

compression.

FLECHA DE UNA VIGA

RESISTANCEWe can strengthen a structure using stronger

materials or changing its shape

SHEATINGReinforced concrete

pillar

Steel bars

SoilConcrete

Slab

Concrete foundation

Reinforced concrete pillar

Sheating

Formwork

Excavation

BOVEDILLA

TOP SLAB or Hollow concrete block