What type of load is axial force categorized under?

Axial force is categorized under thrust load because it refers to the force that is applied along the axis of an object. When an axial force is exerted, it can lead to a change in the shape or length of the object in the direction of the applied force. Thrust loads are specifically related to pushing or pulling actions along the axis of a member, which is consistent with the definition of axial force.

In contrast, radial loads act perpendicular to the axis and involve forces that cause bending or lateral deflection. Combination loads involve multiple types of loading scenarios—like axial and radial forces driving complex interactions—but do not solely define the nature of axial forces. Tensile loads refer to forces that attempt to stretch an object rather than push or pull along its axis, making thrust the more accurate categorization for axial forces.