6. Loads on Structures

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is live load reduction?

   Hint

   Consider the area and materials involved.

2. 2.

   Define tributary area in relation to beams.

   Hint

   Think about how the beam distributes loads.

3. 3.

   What does live load reduction help achieve in structural design?

   • Lower material costs
   • Higher building heights
   • Faster construction

   Hint

   Think about the financial implications of design.

4. 4.

   True or False: The ASCE7 standard outlines how to handle snow load reductions.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what kinds of loads building codes cover.

5. 5.

   Given that a school cafeteria has a large open floor with a maximum live load of 100 lb/ft², and assuming a reduced load can be applied for areas greater than 400 ft², calculate the new live load using ASCE7 guidelines.

   Hint

   Refer to the formulas outlined for reductions.

6. 6.

   A structural engineer is designing a mixed-use building with a total area of 8000 ft². How should she approach determining the tributary areas for various beams considering the distribution of spaces?

   Hint

   Visualize and breakdown the load sharing based on the layout of the building.