What is Camber?
Camber is a slight curve or slope built into a structure or surface, and is normally used in construction to improve drainage for structural deflection.
Definition
Purpose
The main purpose of camber is to compensate for expected deflection, helping a structural member maintain the required shape and level under load.
Camber can also help maintain proper drainage on certain structures, such as bridge decks, and improve the finished appearance by reducing visible sagging. The amount of camber depends on the member's span, material, loading conditions, and structural design.
Examples of Use
- Steel beams: A steel beam is fabricated with an upward camber to compensate for the deflection expected under the floor's dead and live loads.
- Bridge construction: Camber is built into bridge girders to account for the weight of the deck and other structural components.
- Precast concrete: Precast concrete beams may have an upward curve due to prestressing, which designers consider when determining the required camber.
- Floor systems: Camber is specified in long-span floor beams to help achieve the intended floor profile after loading.
- Roof structures: Roof beams or trusses may be designed with camber to offset expected deflection and maintain the intended roof profile.
- Construction drawings: A structural drawing specifies the required camber for a beam so the fabricator can produce it to the correct dimensions.
Notes
- Camber is intentional; it's not a sign that a structural member is bent or damaged.
- It is usually measured as the vertical rise from the member's intended straight reference line.
- Too much or too little camber can affect alignment, floor levels, connections, and the finished appearance.
- Camber requirements should be coordinated between the structural engineer, fabricator, and construction team to ensure the member performs as intended.
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