Structural engineering is a critical element in the construction of everything from roadways and bridges to buildings and water towers.
A branch of civil engineering, structural engineering involves the designing and planning of load-bearing structures using the laws of physics and mathematics.
Using this knowledge, structural engineers focus on building different structures that can appropriately resist stress caused by loads in a variety of conditions, ensuring the safest and most structurally sound design.
Among these civil engineers are those who specialize in structural tower engineering and the design of communications towers, water towers, and others.
Understanding The Structure
Structural engineers work closely with their project clients to understand the purpose of the structure and how it will be used.
By analyzing this information and using their understanding of physics and the strength of various building materials, structural engineering services can develop a safe and efficient design for the structure, whatever it may be.
As such, structural tower engineering addresses the strength of different metals and materials, then determines a safe design for the tower, whether it will be supporting thousands of gallons of water or simply holding up a cellphone antenna.
Differences Between Structural Engineering and Architecture
Although it is commonly mistaken to be the same as architecture, structural engineering is vastly different while still being related in terms of being a part of the structural design and construction process.
Architecture focuses on the aesthetic qualities of a building or structure, while structural engineering addresses only structural stability.
Where architecture and structural engineering overlap, architects will develop their design, then pass it on to structural engineers who will ensure the design and building plan provides correct structural support for the structure.
In terms of structural tower engineering and other types of civil engineering, it is structural engineers who develop the entire plan.
The Value of Structural Engineers
When contracting structural tower engineering services, companies funding tower projects should ensure they are working with experienced civil structural engineers who have a great track record of successful projects.
Public safety is always a prime concern for businesses erecting water towers or any other towers, as these structures must be expertly designed to have little chance of structural failure.
In Summary
Experienced structural tower engineering services should also be called in to assess tower condition whenever repairs are necessary or to perform required safety inspections.
Choosing a water tower company that employs qualified structural engineers who specialize in the field of water tower construction means greater safety for everyone.