Portantes

Portantes is a term used in architecture and civil engineering to refer to structural elements that carry and transfer loads from parts of a building to its foundation. The word is commonly found in Portuguese-language contexts and is related to the concept of load-bearing components in other Romance languages and in general structural terminology.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from the verb portar, meaning to carry. In English-language discourse, portantes is rarely used; professionals typically describe load-bearing elements or the load path of a structure.

Types: Portantes include vertical elements such as columns or load-bearing walls, and horizontal elements such as beams, slabs, arches, and vaults. They can be continuous or discrete and may be made of masonry, concrete, steel, or timber. Different configurations—such as frames, arches, or shear walls—employ portantes to resist gravity and lateral loads.

Function and design: Portantes form the primary load path of a structure, transferring vertical loads to foundations and resisting lateral forces from wind or seismic activity. Design considerations involve material strength, cross-section, spacing, connections, durability, and compliance with building codes and safety requirements.

Historical context and usage: Traditional masonry buildings rely on thick portantes walls to provide stability, while modern construction often uses framed portantes in concrete or steel. Classic structural systems include arches and vaults, whereas contemporary designs emphasize reinforced concrete beams, columns, and shear walls as primary load-bearing elements.

See also: Load-bearing wall, Structural engineering, Building codes.