What is a concentrated load?

A concentrated load refers specifically to a force that is applied to a small area of a structure, which can significantly affect how the structure behaves under various stress conditions. This type of loading is critical in engineering and construction, as it affects the design and strength requirements of materials and structural elements.

When a load is concentrated on a small area, the stress distribution is significantly higher than that of a load applied over a larger area, leading to more localized effects such as shear or bending. Understanding concentrated loads is essential for ensuring safety and stability in structures, particularly in areas where heavy equipment or materials might be placed on a floor or beam.

This definition distinguishes concentrated loads from other types of loads, such as those that are distributed across larger areas or those that are stationary or permanent. The characteristics of how and where loads are applied play a vital role in structural analysis and design.