What is a structural engineer?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 22:19:37 GMT

A structural engineer is an engineer who specialises in the design of wide range of assets in the built environment such as, buildings, bridges, dams and even large signposts!

A structural engineer will often act as a consultant to other professionals such as an architect or building contractor. They are responsible for defining loads, determining the structural system, calculating design stresses and suggesting which materials to use. They are a key professional in the construction process and able able to assess a building’s safety.

When do I need a structural engineer?

Most people won’t notice the involvement of a structural engineer, but most house, supermarkets, hospitals factories and other buildings will have had the input of a structural engineer during their construction.

So, if you are looking to have a new build, extension or alteration to your home or business then a structural engineer will be able to assist to ensure this is done in a safe manner to current regulations. A structural engineer will work closely with your architect and building contractor by providing structural drawings, calculations, and any other specifications your project may require.

Famous structural engineers

Some famous structural / civil engineers you may or may not have heard of.

Isambard Kingdom Brunel

As the chief engineer for the Great Western Railway, Brunel designed and innovated on tunnels, bridges and viaducts.

Brunel also designed the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

Gustave Eiffel

Gustave Eiffel, designed some of the most prominent structures of our time, including the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.

Thomas Telford

Worked on some of the most significant infrastructure projects in the UK, including the design and construction of the Menai Suspension Bridge.

Finally, a quote that most structural engineers will hear in their career;

“Engineering is the art of modelling materials we do not fully understand, into shapes we cannot precisely analyse, so as to withstand forces we cannot properly predict, in such a fashion that the public has no reason to suspect the extent of our ignorance.”

- Dr AR Dykes