Load combination

What is meant by Load combination?

The term "load combination" in design software refers to the compilation of various load cases to determine the most unfavorable stress on a structure. Load combinations consider different loading scenarios and their interactions according to applicable standards and regulations.

Typical software functions in the area of "load combination":

1. Automatic generation: Creation of load combinations based on predefined rules and standards.
2. Manual definition: Possibility for user-defined input of load combinations.
3. Load case management: Organization and grouping of different load cases.
4. Combination rules: Implementation of standard-specific combination rules and partial safety factors.
5. Result analysis: Evaluation and visualization of results for various load combinations.
6. Optimization: Identification of governing load combinations for design.

Examples of "load combination":

1. Permanent load + Live load + Wind load for a high-rise building.
2. Self-weight + Snow loads + Temperature effects for a roof structure.
3. Operational loads + Earthquake load for an industrial facility.
4. Permanent loads + Traffic loads + Braking forces for a bridge.
5. Self-weight + Imposed load + Wind load + Imperfections for a steel hall.
6. Water pressure + Earth pressure + Traffic load for a retaining wall.