Structural element

Structural elements are used in structural analysis to split a complex structure into simple elements. Within a structure, an element cannot be broken down (decomposed) into parts of different kinds (e.g., beam or column).^[1]

Structural elements can be linear, surfaces or volumes.^[2]

Linear elements:

Rod - axial loads
Beam - axial and bending loads
Struts or Compression Members- compressive loads
Ties or Tie rods - tension loads

Surface elements:

membrane - in-plane loads only
shell - in plane and bending moments
- Concrete slab
- deck
shear panel - shear loads only

Volumes:

Axial, shear and bending loads for all three dimensions

References

^ Waddell, J.A.L. (1916). Bridge Engineering - Volume 2. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. p. 1958. Retrieved 2008-08-19.
^ Ryal, M.J.; Parke, G.A.R.; Harding, J.E. (2000). The Manual of Bridge Engineering (Google books (preview)). London: Thomas Telford. p. 98. ISBN 9780727727749. Retrieved 2009-04-12. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameters: |chapterurl= and |month= (help)

[waddell-1] Waddell, J.A.L. (1916). Bridge Engineering - Volume 2. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. p. 1958. Retrieved 2008-08-19.

[2] Ryal, M.J.; Parke, G.A.R.; Harding, J.E. (2000). The Manual of Bridge Engineering (Google books (preview)). London: Thomas Telford. p. 98. ISBN 9780727727749. Retrieved 2009-04-12. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameters: |chapterurl= and |month= (help)

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