built up member weld

[scully44]

I have a client that has to W8x21 beams stacked one on top of the other. My question: is there an AISC prequalified weld I can use to attach the flanges together. The ones shown in AISC 9th Ed. Do not show any attaching 2 plates along their edge. The weld will only have to carry the horizontal shear (650#/inch). I was thinking I would use a partial penetration butt weld with 0 gap since the beams are already installed.

 

[Goahead]

The joint you described is an edge joint.
You can establish a new WPS and decide which partial penetration is enough.
If there is no binding Code for your construction you are probably free to put the requirements you deem adequate.
It would be recommended however to document your procedure and the results obtained.

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