Structural element

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

Structural building components are specialized structural building products designed, engineered and manufactured under controlled conditions for a specific application. They are incorporated into the overall building structural system by a building designer. Examples are wood or steel roof trusses, floor trusses, floor panels, I-joists, or engineered beams and headers. A structural building component manufacturer or truss manufacturer is an individual or company regularly engaged in the manufacturing of components.

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

Line elements:

• Rod - axial loads
• Beam - axial and bending loads
• Pillar
• Post (structural)
• Struts or Compression members- compressive loads
• Ties, Tie rods, eyebars, guy-wires, suspension cables, or wire ropes - 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

• Load-bearing wall
• Post and lintel
• Stressed member engine