Building Columns: Types, Functions, and Key Differences Between Columns and Pillars

Introduction of Columns

The whole structure of a building is comprised of different types of components. The column is one of the most important parts of the Framed Structure. Columns are designed to carry the axial loads in compression.

The Columns are used all over the world for the decorative as well as structural purpose. The main function of the columns is to transmit the load of the superstructure to the underground strata.

In this article, you will get to know what are columns, different shapes of columns, column types, types of RCC columns, the difference between column vs pillar, and column pillar.

What Are Columns?

Columns are the vertical Structural member which transmits a load of the slab to the foundation. The column is a rigid vertical structural member.

The effective depth of the column exceeds 3 times the lateral dimension. Generally, column carries the axial loads in the compression.

Biaxial column is subjected to the axial compressive force are undergoes to Moments on one or both axes.

Factors on which strength of the column depends

1. The shape of the column
2. Size of the column
3. Length of the column
4. Cross-section of the column

Types of Columns in Architecture

There are five major order of architectural columns used in the construction are as follows

1. Doric
2. Ionic
3. Corinthian
4. Tuscan
5. Composite

Different Types of Rcc Columns

Columns are classified into different types according to the different criteria are as follows

1. Classification of the column based on its cross-section
2. Classification of the column based on its loading
3. Classification of columns based on its length and behaviour
4. Classification of columns on the basis of its longitudinal reinforcement

The brief description of the classification of columns given as follows.

1. Classification of the Column on the Basis of Its Cross-Section

There are different types of pillars and shapes of columns which are used in the construction as per the requirement or design.

1.1. Square Column or Rectangular Column

Square columns or square column design and rectangular columns are commonly used in the construction of buildings. The construction of the rectangular or square columns is easier and less costly to cast.

1.2. Circular Column

Circular columns are specially design and widely used in the filing and elevation of the structures. Circular columns give the good aesthetical appearance to the structure. Circular columns are commonly used in the construction of bridge pillars.

1.3. T-Column

T-column is used as per the design requirements of the structure.

1.4. L-Column

The L-columns is not commonly used in the structure. It is used at the corner of the frame structure.

2. Classification of the Column on the Basis of Its Loading

2.1. Axially Loaded Column

Axially loaded columns are subjected to the loading which is acting along the longitudinal axis or centroid of the column section.

2.2. Axially Loaded and Uniaxial Bending Column

The axially loaded and uniaxial bending column subject to the loads which do not act on the longitudinal axis of the column section.

2.3. Axially Loaded and Biaxial Bending Column

Biaxial bending of columns occurs when the loading causes binding on the principal Axis simultaneously.

3. Classification of the Column on the Basis of Its Length and Behaviour

3.1. Short Column

The short column is defined as the column whose ratio of the least lateral dimension of the column is less than 12, then it is known as a short column.

3.2. Long Column

Long column is defined as the column whose ratio of the least lateral dimension of the column is more than 12,then it is known as Long column.

4. Classification of Column on the Basis of Its Longitudinal Reinforcemen

4.1. Tied Column

A tied column is a column in which the longitudinal reinforcement bars are tied together with the separate small diameter transverse ties which are spaced at some interval along the column height.

4.2. Spiral Column

Spiral columns are the columns in which the longitudinal bars are arranged in the circular shape. There is a total of 6 number of bars are used for the longitudinal reinforcement.

4.3. Composite Column

A composite column is a column which is made of structural Steel shape or pipe which are surrounded by or filled by the concrete with or without longitudinal reinforcement.

Round Column Vs Square Column

The round pillar design and square column, or square pillar design, are commonly used column shapes in the construction. The difference between the Round column and square are as follows

Pillars Vs Columns

Pillar, or pillar column, is a vertical structure which is designed to bear the weight of the building’s roof. Pillar is also widely used as a decorative element in the Buildings.

The column is a structural element which transmits the total load of the structure to the footing and the soil.

Difference Between Pillars and Columns

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) based on your article:

What Is the Primary Function of a Column in Building Construction?

Columns are vertical structural members designed to transmit the load of the superstructure (such as beams and slabs) to the foundation and, ultimately, to the ground. They carry axial loads in compression.

What Are the Different Shapes of Columns Used in Construction?

Columns come in various shapes, including square or rectangular columns, circular columns, T-columns, and L-columns. The choice of shape depends on the design requirements and aesthetic preferences.

How Are Columns Classified Based on Their Loading?

Columns are classified based on loading into three categories:

1. Axially Loaded Columns: Load acts along the longitudinal axis.
2. Axially Loaded and Uniaxial Bending Columns: Load does not act on the longitudinal axis.
3. Axially Loaded and Biaxial Bending Columns: Load causes bending along two principal axes.

What Is the Difference Between a Short Column and a Long Column?

A short column has a ratio of the least lateral dimension to the height of less than 12, while a long column has a ratio greater than 12. Short columns are stronger in compression, while long columns are more susceptible to buckling.

What Are the Types of Rcc (Reinforced Cement Concrete) Columns?

RCC columns are classified based on their longitudinal reinforcement:

1. Tied Columns: Longitudinal bars are tied with transverse ties.
2. Spiral Columns: Longitudinal bars are arranged in a circular shape with spiral reinforcement.
3. Composite Columns: Made of structural steel and concrete, sometimes with longitudinal reinforcement.

How Do Round Columns Differ from Square Columns?

Round columns are symmetric around their centroidal axis, can carry more load due to better compression, but are more expensive to construct. Square columns, on the other hand, are easier and more economical to build but have weak points at the corners.

What Is the Difference Between a Pillar and a Column?

A pillar is a vertical structure primarily used for decorative purposes or to bear the weight of a building’s roof. In contrast, a column is a structural element designed to transmit loads from the structure to the foundation. All columns are not pillars, but all pillars can serve as columns.

What Are the Five Major Architectural Orders of Columns?

The five major architectural orders of columns are:

1. Doric
2. Ionic
3. Corinthian
4. Tuscan
5. Composite

Can Columns Have a Purely Decorative Function?

Yes, while columns are primarily structural, they can also be used for decorative purposes, especially in classical architecture where they serve both roles.

Why Is the Shape of a Column Important?

The shape of a column affects its strength, load-carrying capacity, and aesthetic appeal. For example, circular columns are stronger in compression, while square columns are easier and more cost-effective to construct.