loadcarry

Loadcarry refers to the capacity of a structural element or system to support loads without exceeding material strengths or serviceability limits. This includes permanent dead loads, variable live loads, and environmental actions such as wind and seismic loads. The term is commonly used in civil and mechanical engineering to describe how much load a component can carry safely.

In design, engineers distinguish between ultimate load carrying capacity and allowable (service) load. The ultimate capacity is the maximum load before failure; the allowable load incorporates safety factors to ensure reliability during use. Structural codes specify material strengths, cross-sectional limits, and allowable stresses, along with deflection criteria.

Calculation involves selecting load cases, applying load combinations, and performing analysis to determine stresses and deformations. Methods range from simple beam bending and axial compression checks to more advanced finite element analysis. For slender members, buckling may govern capacity. For foundations, bearing capacity and settlement are key considerations, often requiring geotechnical data.

Practical considerations include load paths, redundancy, construction tolerances, and durability. The concept of loadcarry is central to ensuring safety, performance, and compliance in the design of structures and machinery bases.

See also bearing capacity, load distribution, safety factor, structural analysis, serviceability.