From Load to Sketch: The Art of Basic Structural Design

Structural engineering is an essential field that plays a crucial role in designing and constructing buildings and other structures. Some of the best structural engineers in OKC work closely with architects, builders and other professionals in the construction industry to ensure that these structures are safe, functional and structurally sound. In OKC, residential structural engineers are responsible for constructing homes and buildings that can withstand the forces that act upon them. This blog post will discuss the six basic procedures a structural engineer follows when designing a structure.

Know the Design Codes, Criteria & Standards

The first step in designing any structure is to know the design codes, criteria and standards that apply to the project. These standards ensure that the installation will be safe and functional. In OKC, the International Building Code (IBC) is the primary design code that governs the construction of buildings. The structural engineer must be familiar with the IBC and any additional codes or regulations that apply to the project.

Calculate and Consider the Load

Once the structural engineers identify the design codes, they must calculate the loads the structure will withstand during its lifetime. Loads include dead loads, such as the structure's weight and live loads, such as the weight of people and furniture. The engineer must also consider environmental loads, such as wind, snow and earthquakes, which can vary depending on the structure's location.

Framing System is Crucial for The Structural Engineer

After calculating the loads, the engineer must select a suitable framing system for the project. The framing system ensures the structure can withstand the expected loads. Various framing systems are there, such as wood, steel and concrete, each with advantages and disadvantages. The engineer must select a framing system that is appropriate for the project based on the loads and design codes.

Verify Using Structural Modeling and Manual Designing

The next step is to verify the design using structural modeling and manual designing. Structural modeling involves creating a 3D model of the structure and simulating how it will perform under different loads. Manual designing consists in calculating the stresses and strains on individual structural members. Both methods are helpful to ensure that the structure will be safe and structurally sound.

Designing Structural Members

Once the structure has been modeled and verified, the structural engineer must design the individual structural members, such as beams, columns and walls. The engineer must remember that the structural members must withstand the loads they will be subjected to while remaining within the design codes and criteria. The engineer must also consider the construction methods used when designing the members.

Sketch a Structural Drawing

The final step in the structural design process is to create a drawing showing each structural member's location and dimensions. The builder uses the structural picture to construct the structure, which must be accurate and detailed.

Trust Your Structural Design Needs to Our Expert Team of Engineers

Choosing the right residential structural engineer ensures your home or building is safe and structurally sound. In OKC, Ramjack by American Leveling Company is a reliable and experienced provider of structural engineering services. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to design safe and functional structures that meet all applicable design codes and criteria.

We understand the importance of designing structures that are both safe and functional. We take pride in our work and are committed to providing our clients with high-quality residential structural engineering services. Whether you are building a new home or need to evaluate an existing structure, our team of experts can help. Contact us for more information.