The terms “span” and “clear span” are related but slightly different concepts in the context of buildings and structures:
| 1. Span: Span refers to the horizontal distance between two supporting points in a structure or building. It is the distance between the points where a load or weight is supported, and it can be measured in various ways, such as between two columns, two walls, or two supports. Span generally includes any intermediate supports, such as columns, walls, or other structural elements, that are present along the length of the structure. |
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| 2. Clear Span: Clear span, on the other hand, refers to the horizontal distance between two supporting points in a structure or building that is free from any intermediate support. It is the uninterrupted distance between two points where a load or weight is supported without any additional support in between. In other words, clear span refers to the open space between supports without any obstructions, such as columns or walls. |
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In summary, while both span and clear span refer to the horizontal distance between two supports in a structure, the key difference is that span includes any intermediate supports that may be present, whereas clear span specifically refers to the unobstructed distance between two supports without any intermediate support in between. Clear span is often used to describe the open and uninterrupted space in a building that can be utilized for various purposes, such as open floor areas, storage, assembly lines, recreational activities, and more.
The terms “effective span” and “clear span” are often used interchangeably in structural engineering and construction, and they refer to the same concept. Both terms describe the horizontal distance between two supporting points in a structure or building that is free from any intermediate support, such as columns or walls and is uninterrupted by any additional supports.
The effective span or clear span of a structural element, such as a beam or a roof truss, is an important consideration in structural design and construction, as it directly affects the load-carrying capacity and performance of the element. A longer effective span or clear span generally requires larger and stronger structural members to resist the applied loads and prevent excessive deflections or deformations. On the other hand, a shorter effective span building or clear span building may allow for smaller and more economical structural members.
The effective span or clear span is typically calculated based on engineering calculations and analysis, taking into consideration various factors such as the material properties, design loads, and building codes and standards applicable to the project. It is an important parameter that structural engineers use to design safe and efficient structures that can meet the specific requirements of the project.
