From soaring skyscrapers to expansive airports, many of the awe-inspiring structures in our built environment rely on advanced vertical support from steel columns. Serving as the backbone upholding these ambitious designs, steel columns leverage unique properties that set them apart as prized structural components. This strength, stiffness, and versatility explains steel’s dominance as the column…
Elasticity is a key mechanical property that all civil engineers must understand. Elasticity, ability of a deformed material body to return to its original shape and size when the forces causing the deformation are removed. A body with this ability is said to behave (or respond) elastically. When external forces are applied to a material…
Stress analysis forms a critical foundation of structural design across civil, mechanical and aerospace engineering disciplines. Determining the state of stress on structural components enables predicting failure and fracture risks. When any structural component experiences complex multi-axial loading scenarios, the stress state at a given point must be simplified into principal directions to enable accurate…
Pier and beam foundation is commonly used in areas with expansive or unstable soil conditions. Unlike a traditional concrete slab foundation which sits flat on the ground, a pier and beam system utilizes beams that are supported by piers embedded deep into the ground. The main advantage of choosing a pier and beam foundation over…
Concrete steps are an essential addition to modern homes and outdoor landscapes, valued for their durability and versatility. Whether constructed as cement steps for entrances, prefab concrete steps for gardens, or elaborate floating staircases, concrete steps offer enduring strength and aesthetic appeal for any residential or commercial setting. Why Choose Concrete Steps? The main reasons…
The Charpy v-notch test remains an important quality assurance assessment quantifying a material’s resistance to sudden fracture from impacts. Charpy impact test procedures, results analysis, and key advantages of this method versus alternatives like the Izod impact test. The standardized test measures the energy absorbed fracturing a notched specimen using a pendulum hammer. Higher absorbed…