Columns and Struts


Column- It is a vertical member subjected to the axial compressive load and transfers the 
load from roof to floor of the structure. Columns are supported by fixed supports at 
both ends.

Example: Pillar between roof and floor
Strut :It is the inclined member subjected to the axial load and supported by hinged or pin jointed supports at both the ends.

Example:



Slenderness ratio:It is the ratio of actual length of the column to least radius of gyration of 
the cross section of the column.Slenderness ratio is denoted by lambda.

where L: actual length of the column
           k: radius of gyration (It is defined as the distance between the reference axis to the point where whole weight of the body is concentrated)

Types of columns

Based on the height,columns are classified into two types

1) Long columns
2) Short columns

Long columns: The column,whose lateral dimension is very small when compared to its length(or height) is called as long column.

Short columns: The column,whose lateral dimension is very large when compared to its length(or height) is called as short column.