Understanding The Basics Of Civil And Structural Engineering

Civil engineering is commonly understood to be the engineering behind the construction of buildings. However, it is much more than that. It is considered to be one of the oldest branches of engineering as is credited with the infrastructure of nations across the globe. Civil engineering not only brings about an architect’s plan from paper into the physical world but also provides for its maintenance while taking into account the effect a structure has on the environment surrounding it. Civil engineering can be understood to be an umbrella under which falls many a sub-discipline one of which is structural engineering. These fields are crucial to the development of a nation as they create the infrastructure of the nation.

What Does A Civil Engineer Do?

A civil engineer is tasked with ensuring that every structure created protects the environment around it and the people within it. They oversee both the construction and the maintenance of structures. Civil engineers are involved in the construction of roadways. This involves, firstly, a survey of the topography of the land to be converted to a roadway. Secondly, a design that considers the topographical and environmental factors involved. And thirdly, execution of this plan to completion. Civil engineers are also involved in the construction of foundations for both domestic and industrial spaces and undertake the construction of marine works.

What Is Structural Engineering?

Structural engineering applies empirical knowledge and the laws of physics to the geometry of design and material used in construction to determine its structural performance. In simpler terms, structural engineers determine the performance of a structure by evaluating its design and the materials used in its construction. Structural performance refers to the stability of a building, its strength, and its rigidity. Structural engineering is a sub-class of civil engineering. The focus here is on what makes up a building, or in other words, the bones of a building. Structural engineers work hand in hand with civil engineers and architects in the construction of buildings. 

What Do Structural Engineers Do?

Structural engineers deal specifically with the making of the structure. In simpler terms, they are concerned with the framework of the building and the materials used in construction. They ensure that the construction is in compliance with governmental regulations and conduct inspections of existing structures to evaluate their structural performance. Structural engineers usually specialise in a specific type of construction. For instance, some may be experts in the construction of buildings, while others are experts in the construction of industrial tunnels or pipelines. They evaluate the various elements of a structure like the columns, the arches, the shells, the beams, the catenaries, and the plates. The design, positioning, and the material with which each of these elements is made determine the performance of the entire structure the elements are to be a part of. Structural engineers evaluate each of these elements to ensure that the structures are solid and safe for the ones in and around them.