What Is the Difference Between Short Column and Long Column? . Most people confuse when asked the difference between long and short column. peoples interchange the meaning of these two terms. These terms share some similarities but they are very different from each other. It is the most essential part of any structure.
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What Are Columns in Structural Engineering?
vertical structural elements that transmit loads from upper levels, such as floors or roofs, to the foundation. They play a vital role in maintaining the stability and integrity of a structure. Its can be categorized into two main types based on their behavior under load: short and long columns.
What is Short Column?
When the ratio of the effective length of a column to its least lateral dimension does not exceed 12, it is called short column.
the column in which the ratio of length or height to its lateral dimension is less than or equal to 12 is called short column the lateral dimension of short column is large when compared to length.
(L/b) ≤ 12
Where
L is length or height
b is the lateral dimension
The short column which can fail by crushing not by bending which leads to buckling.
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What is Long Column?
When the ratio of the effective length of a column to its least lateral dimension exceeds 12, it is called long column.
The ratio of length or height of the column to its lateral dimension is greater than 12 is called long column.
(L/b) > 12
Where
L is length or height
b is the lateral dimension
A long column which can fail under load by bending not by crushing and usually the length of column is more than 20 to 30 times of diameter.
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Difference between Long Column and Short Column
There are a lot of difference between Long column and short column. The difference is given in points below:
| S.No. | Short | Long |
| 1 | The ratio of length or height to its lateral dimension is less than or equal to 12 is known as short column | the ratio of length or height of the column to its lateral dimension is greater than 12 is known as long column. |
| 2 | can fail because of their crushing. | can fail because of their buckling. |
| 3 | is not fail by Buckling | The radius of gyration of long column is less. |
| 4 | The radius of gyration of long column is less. | cannot fail by crushing |
| 5 | subjected to compressive stresses. | are subjected to buckling stresses. |
| 6 | the ratio of length to radius of gyration is less than or equal to 40. | the ratio of length to radius of gyration is greater than 40. |
| 7 | can fail by crushing | can buckle easily or it can fail by buckling. |
| 8 | Load carrying capacity in short column is very high as compared to long columns if both columns have same cross sectional area. | Load carrying capacity in long column is less as compared to short columns if both columns have same cross sectional area. |
| 9 | The load carrying capacity of short column is much more due to its low height. | The load carrying capacity of long column is less due to its more height. |
| 10 | It is stronger than a long column and short column is highly recommended. | It is weaker than a short column and usually, it is not preferred. |
| 11 | The lateral dimension of short column is more as compared to the height. | The lateral dimension of long column is less as compared to the height. |
| 12 | The slenderness ratio short column is less than 45. | The slenderness ratio of long column is more than 45. |
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Factors Influencing the Design
Several factors determine whether a column is classified as short or long:
Length
The overall length significantly impacts the slenderness ratio. Longer columns tend to behave as long columns due to their higher propensity to buckle.
Cross-Sectional Dimensions
The cross-sectional area and shape influence a column’s resistance to buckling. Wider and more robust cross-sections reduce the slenderness ratio, favoring short column behavior.
Type of Loading
The nature of the load—whether axial, eccentric, or lateral—affects a column’s performance and classification. Axial loads are more likely to result in buckling in long columns.
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Applications of Short and Long Columns
Use
- High-rise buildings where robust load-bearing is critical.
- Bridges and other infrastructure requiring strong compression elements.
- Industrial facilities that demand stability under heavy machinery loads.
Use
- Lightweight structures where material efficiency is prioritized.
- Towers, such as communication masts and wind turbines, where height is essential.
- Architectural designs emphasizing slender, aesthetic elements.
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Common Mistakes in Column Selection
- Ignoring Slenderness Ratio: Misclassifying columns can compromise stability.
- Overestimating Load Capacity: Assuming a long column can handle loads similar to a short column may lead to buckling.
- Neglecting Material Properties: Different materials react differently under compression and buckling forces, influencing classification.
FAQs
1. What is the slenderness ratio, and why is it important?
The slenderness ratio is the ratio of a It’s effective length to its least radius of gyration. It determines whether a column is short or long and influences its stability and load capacity.
2. How does buckling affect long columns?
Buckling occurs when long columns fail under compressive loads before reaching their material strength. It reduces the load a column can safely carry.
3. Are short columns always stronger than long ?
Short columns are stronger in terms of axial load-carrying capacity. However, their effectiveness depends on the specific structural requirements.
4. Can material type influence whether a column is classified as short or long?
Yes, material properties such as modulus of elasticity affect buckling behavior and can influence a column’s classification.
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