Tugisammast

Tugisammast is a structural element used in architecture and civil engineering to transfer vertical loads from upper parts of a building or structure down to the foundation. The term comes from Estonian, with “tugi” meaning support and “sammast” meaning pillar or post. In English, it is commonly described as a bearing column or load-bearing column. Its primary function is to carry axial forces, though it may also resist some bending and shear depending on its design and connections.

Tugisammast can be constructed from various materials, including reinforced concrete, steel, timber, or composite combinations. Shapes vary from circular or square cross-sections to rectangular profiles, and some columns are hollow or flange-connected to enable passage of utilities or to reduce weight. The placement and spacing of tugisammast follow a structural grid determined by architectural layout, intended use, and load distribution.

Design considerations include load paths, slenderness, material strength, and stability under vertical loads as well as lateral forces such as wind or seismic activity. Designers address connections to beams, floors, and foundations, as well as durability, fire resistance, and corrosion protection. Foundations often use base plates, footings, or piles to ensure stable load transfer.

Applications of tugisammast range from low-rise buildings to multi-storey constructions, bridges, towers, and other load-bearing structures. Proper maintenance focuses on detecting cracks, corrosion, or settlement at the base, with repairs and retrofits guided by structural assessments.

See also: load-bearing elements, reinforced concrete column, steel column, architectural structural system.