definition
strict definition
strength
Measurements of the capacity of a built object to withstand various forms of stress.
Measurements of strength describe the capacity of any built object to withstand certain defined forms of stress, often on a particular part of the object.
The form of stress defines the capacity being described. An allowable elevator load concerns carried weight, while wind resistance concerns exposure to a specified wind speed.
A limit assigned to one part, such as a floorplate, describes that part's loading condition. It does not establish an equivalent limit for every other component of the object.
More specific definitions
8 sub-definitions-
building sway (max)
The maximum total length across which a structure is expected to sway in high winds at its extreme point. -
floor bearing capacity
The amount of extra weight (furniture, machinery, etc.) that a measured square unit of a floor can safely support. -
freight elevator load (max)
The maximum weight which a freight elevator can safely carry, expressed in kilograms or pounds. -
maximum vehicle weight
The practical or allowed weight limit for vehicles entering a particular place or facility. -
operational wind resistance
The wind speed at which a structure must cease operations or evacuate occupants. -
passenger elevator load (max)
The maximum weight which a passenger elevator can safely carry, expressed in kilograms or pounds. -
seismic resistance
The earthquake moment magnitude a structure is expected to withstand without an interruption of use. -
structural wind resistance
The maximum wind speed a built object can withstand without damage to its structural integrity.
Related definitions
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angle
Measurements of geometric orientation, alignment, or opening expressed in degrees of arc. -
area
Measurements of bounded two-dimensional space, including cumulative areas across several levels. -
clearance
The free space allowed within a structure or pathway for entry and passage. -
depth
Vertical distances below a structure's base level, measured between specified upper and lower points. -
duration
Measurements of elapsed or expected time between a defined beginning and a defined end. -
elevation
Vertical positions of objects or reference points measured above, below, or at mean sea level. -
energy
Measurements of energy handled by an object and the power at which it is produced or consumed. -
height
Vertical distances above a structure's base level, measured between specified lower and upper points. -
hill size
The size category of a ski jumping hill, measured from the take-off point to the end of the landing area. -
humidity
Measurements of moisture in air or other gases as an absolute quantity or a percentage of saturation. -
length
Measurements of horizontal, diagonal, or travel distances between two defined extreme points. -
mass
Measurements of material quantity, commonly reported as weight in kilograms, pounds, or tons. -
pressure
Measurements of force per unit area, expressed as absolute pressure or a difference from a reference. -
speed
Measurements of motion over time, including distance traveled and rates of repeated rotation or swinging. -
temperature
Measurements of how hot or cold an object or space is, including temperature ranges and limits. -
thickness
Measurements of the perpendicular distance between two sides of the same component. -
volume
Measurements of three-dimensional space displaced or enclosed within specified boundaries.