When a beam is loaded, what is the load placed on it called?

The load placed on a beam when it is loaded is referred to as the superimposed load. This term specifically describes external loads that are added to a structure beyond the self-weight of the structure itself, which is classified as the dead load. Superimposed loads can include items such as furniture, equipment, and people. Understanding the difference between these loads is essential for assessing structural safety and integrity.

Dead loads consist primarily of the weight of structural elements and fixed installations. Live loads, on the other hand, refer to temporary or movable loads that can change over time, like occupants or vehicles. Dynamic loads involve loads that change rapidly, such as those caused by high winds or impacts, which are different from the static conditions that superimposed loads generally represent. Recognizing these distinctions is vital for evaluating the design and performance of structural elements in various building scenarios.