Point load
A point load is a load that is applied at a specific, concentrated point, sometimes referred to as equivalent concentrated load (ECL). This is in contrast to loads such as uniformly distributed loads (UDL), where the the load is distributed across a region of an element such as a beam or slab.
For example, when a point load is imposed on a shelf, its weight is significantly concentrated in one place. On the other hand, when a UDL is placed on a shelf, its weight is evenly distributed over the entire shelf.
Point loads are expressed by calculating the total load over the object's surface or length and attributing the entire load to its centre point.
Other related types of load include
- Coupled loads
- Dead loads
- Line loads
- Live loads
- Uniformly varying loads.
For more information see: Types of structural load.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Open industry engagement survey seeks responses
Institutions and the importance of engagement.
National Retrofit Hub unveils new guide
Digital Building Logbooks and Retrofit: An Introduction.
Top 50 firms awarded 52bn of projects in the last year
New engineering data shows.
Enhancing construction site reporting efficiency
Through digitisation and the digital revolution.
Noise in the built environment
BSRIA guide TG 20/2021.
17,000 people suffer conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.
Turning down the noise: Auditory health
A pervasive risk with far-reaching consequences.
Getting the most out of heat pumps and heating
How heat pumps work and how they work best.
Plumbing and heating for successful retrofit and renovation
Low temperature underfloor systems and heat pumps.
Cost-of-living crisis and home improvement plans
Starting on the right footing and top tips for projects.
Delays on construction projects
Types, mitigation and the acceleration of works.
From Chaucer to Fawlty Towers.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.