Column Erection

[Ipetu]

We are preparing to erect 90' W-section steel columns on site in about a months time. Before we can frame anything else to stabilize the columns, the columns will be on the anchor bolts (bolted down) as a free-standing cantilever for approx. 4-6 hours. I will check the column as a free-standing cantilever subject to erection loads such as working wind loads. Are there any other checks and/or procedures that are recommended to ensure that the erection is completed safely.

Thanks in advance.

 

[msquared48]

I would strongly consider temporary guys at the 60 foot level - one guy line in each of the four primary directions.

(Gals won't work here - they're too light.)

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[jike]

Why so long of a column? I would try to use a shorter column with some intermediate bracing.

If that cannot be, then make sure you check anchor bolts and footing. I know of one case where the engineer was sucessfully sued when the column fell over and pulled the footing out of the ground.

Also, write some iron clad statements in your spec re: erection liability with the help of your insurer.

 

[Lion06]

OSHA requires the column be stable for a work 18" away. That's a 200 or 300# man with an 18" eccentricity.

 

[BAretired]

Brace the columns to each other temporarily until the rest of the structure can be tied in. Then remove the braces.

BA

 

[Stillerz]

how many cranes do you have access to?
is there anyway to erect two columns and beams framed b/t on the ground and lift two colums and with connections beams at once as a sort of tilt-up?

 

[racookpe1978]

You've got intermediate floor beams to be permanently installed.

What about using those rigid, prefabricated attachment plates to mount stiff sway braces at the first (or second floor) points - go back from the first floor points on the column down and out to the foundation to temporary anchor points on the ground. That will mitigate swaying with less rigging interferene than long, loose "gal ropes" attached near the top of the column.