Answer:
A roller support is a type of structural support commonly used in engineering and construction. It consists of a freely rotating roller, usually made of steel or other durable material, that is placed between a structural member and its support, allowing the member to move freely along a particular direction.
The roller support is designed to accommodate movements due to thermal expansion, contraction, or any other external factors that may cause the structural member to move. The roller support can only resist vertical loads, and it allows horizontal movement in one or more directions.
Roller supports are often used in bridge construction, where they are installed between bridge beams and piers to allow for longitudinal movement caused by temperature changes, wind loads, or traffic loads. They are also used in industrial applications to support large pipelines or ductwork, where the structure may need to move or shift due to thermal expansion or contraction.
Overall, the roller support is a simple yet effective method of providing structural support while allowing for movement in specific directions, reducing stress and strain on the structure and increasing its overall durability and longevity.