Lesson 10 – Post-and-Lintel System of Egyptian Architecture
Introduction
The most basic example of load and support in construction is the post-and-lintel system. In this system, two vertical members hold up a third horizontal member placed on top of them. This system serves as the foundation for the development of all openings.
However, the pure form of the post-and-lintel system is only found in colonnades and framed structures. This is because the posts of doors, windows, ceilings, and roofs are integrated into the walls. Now, let’s take a closer look at this architectural system.
I. Facts
In architecture, the post and lintel system is a method of construction where strong vertical elements support horizontal elements with large gaps between them. This system is commonly used to support a roof, creating a spacious area underneath for various purposes.
Stonehenge, an example of Neolithic architecture post and lintelÂ
The main purpose of a lintel is to support the weight that is placed on it, including its own weight, without bending or breaking. Failure only happens when the material used is not strong enough or when the lintel is too long. Â
The posts play a crucial role in supporting the lintel and its weight without collapsing or bending. The material used for the posts must be exceptionally strong in compression. Stone possesses this quality and is more versatile as a post than as a lintel. Â
The post and lintel system remained largely unchanged until the introduction of cast-iron columns. These columns were stronger and had a smaller circumference, resulting in lighter and less massive buildings. Many modern structures made of steel and concrete are based on the post-and-lintel system, bringing back the simplicity of ancient architecture to contemporary design.Â
Leinster House in Dublin retains columns under a pediment for aesthetic reasonsÂ
However, the original concept of separate post-and-lintel elements has been abandoned, and the post-and-lintel system now functions as a unified unit with distributed stresses throughout.Â
II. Overview
There are two main forces acting on the post and lintel system: compression at the joint between the lintel and post to carry the weight, and tension caused by the deformation of the self-weight and the load above between the posts. The two posts are compressed by the weight of the lintel above. The lintel will sag in the middle because the underside is under tension and the topside is under compression.Â
The arcuated system is more effective in spreading larger loads and replaced the post-and-lintel system in most larger buildings and structures, until the introduction of steel girder beams and steel-reinforced concrete in the industrial era.Â
Conclusion
In summary, a post-and-lintel system is used in building construction. This system involves two vertical members called posts that support a horizontal member known as the lintel. This method has influenced the design of all structural openings, but it is most commonly observed in colonnades and framed structures. In these cases, the posts of doors, windows, ceilings, and roofs are integrated into the walls.Â