Crack in Beam Web

[lahpe65]

I am investigating the source of and developing a fix for a beam that has a crack in the web and the bottom flange is bending. The beam is part of a scale structure. There are load cells located approximately 9 inches from the end of the beam. The bending of the flange occurs at the load cell. The crack is just beyond this area.

The capacity of the load cell is 100k. I am still investigating the actual applied load. The original beam designed is a W24X68. From reference drawings, it appears that stiffeners and a bottom flange cover plate were not part of the original design but added at a later date. However, the bottom flange cover plate does not extend to the area of the load cell.

Due to time constraints, replacement of the beam is not an option. It looks like there have been previous attempts to correct the problem. I would appreciate any thoughts, recommendations,input.

Thanks in advance.

 

[ChipB]

Just Curious:
Is the crack vertical or horizontal?
Is the crack towards the end of the beam from the load cell or the middle?
Is the beam galvanized?

In cope cracks of Galvanized steel, we have repaired them by grinding both sides of the crack to a 45 degree angle and then welding with a full penetration weld. (In my former life in the Steel Fab biz). This should work for you.

Another, more expensive option, is to remove the steel beam from the crack to the end, and replace with the same section that has been stiffened properly. This too will require full pen welding.

 

[lahpe65]

Thanks for the input ChipB.

To answer you questions;

The crack is horizontal. It is towards the center of the beam and the steel is not galvanized.