Dynamic loads

Dynamic loads are loads that vary over time. They can be caused by different factors, such as wind, waves, earthquakes, vibrations, or moving vehicles. The behavior of a structure under dynamic loads can be significantly different from its behavior under static loads and thus the design considering the dynamic loads is a challenging process. In civil engineering, dynamic loads are of main interest in the design of bridges, tall buildings, dams, and offshore structures. Bridges may experience large vibrations and deformations due to traffic loads or wind, while offshore structures may be subjected to large wave forces. In earthquake engineering, dynamic loads are critical in buildings and other structures that should resist the effects of seismic forces.