What projects do Structural Engineers work on?
Structural engineers are responsible for the functional and aesthetic design of structures to ensure they are built to withstand the effects of environmental and physics over time. They use a combination of technical knowledge and practical experience to analyse the potential impact of the physical environment and identify the design requirements to ensure the longevity and safety of the structure.
Structural engineers support the architectural and construction teams throughout a project to ensure a structure’s success. Their primary responsibilities include designing, ongoing testing, evaluating the physical characteristics of a structure, and creating systems to achieve a structurally sound project.
As the built environment continues to grow, structural engineers are becoming increasingly essential to the design and construction process of structures. Because of this, they work on a variety of projects, including the construction of buildings, bridges and large-scale infrastructure.
New Construction
One of the most common roles of a structural engineer is to aid in the creation of a new building. Before construction can begin, a structural engineer is employed to analyse any factors that could impact the structural stability of the project, such as the soil type, the weight of the structure, the weather patterns and the strength of the planned foundation. Using this information, they are able to determine whether the planned structural foundation will adequately support the building, and provide suggestions for improvements.
Structural engineers are often engaged in early-stage construction to design the foundation, structure and layout of a new building. They may also make ongoing assessments throughout the construction process, and make any necessary adjustments to the development of the project.
Bridge Construction
A structural engineer is integral to the development and construction of a new bridge, to ensure it is able to withstand the weight of proposed traffic. As with buildings, structural engineers will evaluate the soil and weather patterns of the proposed location, as well as the strength of the planned foundation. Using these findings, they will assess the project’s structural integrity and provide appropriate recommendations for improvements.
City Infrastructure
Structural engineers may also be involved in the development of new city infrastructure. Working closely with a civil engineer, they will analyse plans and oversee the construction of major roads, highways, and tunnels. It is essential that a structural engineer is involved to ensure the project can withstand the weather and traffic conditions that a road may face regularly.
They also aid in the design, planning, and construction of a variety of public buildings, including schools, hospitals, and jails, as well as public housing and low-income housing developments.
Construction Site Inspections
Some projects require an ongoing assessment to ensure that the structural plan is being upheld throughout the construction process. It is the role of a structural engineer to visit a project site and monitor the development of the structure and its foundation. This allows them to ensure that building code compliance requirements are met, and to make any necessary changes to secure the project’s structural integrity and reduce the need for future improvements.
Elite Australian Engineering’s team of structural engineers are experts at understanding the structural needs of all new and existing developments. Our team can provide cost-effective and detailed designs, as well as certification to ensure your next project will withstand the test of time. Get in touch today for all structural engineering solutions.