Camber

Definition

Camber refers to a deflection intentionally built into a structural element (usually a beam) to improve appearance or offset the deflection under loads, shrinkage, and creep. It involves a light initial curvature in a beam or slab.

Purpose

The purpose of cambering is to counteract the natural deflection that occurs when a structural element bears a load. By building in an initial upward curvature, the element will ideally become level when subjected to its expected load, resulting in a level floor or structure.

Examples of Use

1. Beams in Bridges: Pre-cambering beams to achieve a flat surface under the weight of traffic.
2. Floor Systems: Applying camber to floor beams to ensure a level surface under the load of the building materials and occupants.
3. Roof Trusses: Designing camber in trusses to accommodate loads and environmental conditions.

Related Terms

• Deflection: The degree to which a structural element is displaced under a load.
• Creep: The tendency of a material to deform permanently under the influence of mechanical stresses.
• Pre-stressed Concrete: Concrete in which internal stresses are introduced to counteract potential tensile stresses in service.

Notes

Camber must be carefully calculated and implemented during the design and fabrication stages to ensure it effectively counters the anticipated deflection. Over-cambering or under-cambering can lead to structural issues and aesthetic problems.