Hauptlast

Hauptlast is a German term used in engineering and architecture that translates roughly as “main load” or “principal load.” In structural design, it denotes the primary load case that governs the sizing and safety assessment of a component or structure. The concept is used to identify which loading condition is most critical for a given situation.

In practice, engineers evaluate multiple load scenarios, among which the Hauptlast is the most influential for dimensioning. It is paired with other loads, such as Nebenlast (secondary or additional loads) and Zusatzlast (further or temporary loads), to ensure overall safety and serviceability. The Hauptlast may represent the worst-case combination of forces, stresses, and displacements that the element could experience during its life.

Design codes provide rules for how loads are to be combined and checked. European and national standards, such as EN 1990 and related sector codes, outline procedures to incorporate dead loads (Eigengewicht), live or imposed loads (Nutzlast), environmental effects, and dynamic effects. In this framework, the term Hauptlast serves as a guiding notion to identify the principal governing condition, while other loads are verified to meet allowances and safety margins.

Applications span buildings, bridges, mechanical systems, and lifting equipment, where identifying the Hauptlast helps ensure reliable performance under the most demanding design scenario. It is important to note that nomenclature and emphasis on Hauptlast can vary between standards and languages, with some sources preferring more explicit terms like Eigengewicht, Nutzlast, or designated design loads.

See also: Dead load, Live load, Load combination, Nebenlast, Zusatzlast, Eurocode, DIN standards.