When a load is pushed, it is considered a __________.

When a load is pushed, it is considered a thrust load, which is also referred to as a compression load. In this context, a thrust load specifically involves a force that is applied in a linear direction towards the source, causing the material or structure to bear compression along the same axis. This is typical in pneumatic systems where actuators push against a load to create motion or exert force.

Understanding thrust loads is essential in the application of pneumatic systems because they often involve pushing mechanisms such as cylinders. Recognizing when and how these loads occur helps in designing systems that can handle the resultant forces without failure.

The other types of loads, like tension, shear, and bending, involve different modes of force application that result in varying stress distributions and failure modes in materials. Tension loads result from forces pulling apart, shear loads occur when forces are applied across an area, and bending loads involve forces that cause curvature in a structural element. Each of these has distinct characteristics and implications in the context of design and analysis, thereby highlighting the importance of correctly identifying thrust loads in pneumatic applications.