Introduction

Columns and struts carry load primarily in compression along their length, and are found in most building structures.

Columns, sometimes referred to as stanchions, and struts are structural elements which support compressive loads primarily along their longitudinal axes. Such members are present in the structure of almost all buildings from the temples of ancient civilisations to present day frame structures.

At the ancient monument of Stonehenge all stone posts are compression members of huge proportions.

Compression members (struts) are also an integral part of trusses and space frames.

In suspension structures, cable-stayed roof structure and tent structures compression members play an essential role. They generally take the form of a mast or tower providing support to the cables or membrane acting in tension of the mast.

Columns are an essential part of modern framed buildings. In some instances, these columns may additionally be required to carry lateral wind load and bending due to eccentricity of the end reaction of floor beams. However, axial compression is normally the predominant effect. The combination of bending and compression complicates the behaviour of the column and is not considered here.