Gusset Plate Weld To Column 2

[BadgerPE]

When welding a gusset plate to a column for a knee brace connection, is it common or required to have the plate welded on both sides? This is for a low load application and therefore 1 side welded is more than adequate. However, I have a "feeling" that it would be much better to weld to both sides. Thoughts?

 

[ToadJones]

I have always done both sides.
My concern with one side being that if the plate is not perfectly square in fab, the eccentric load that results on the plate may tend to make the gusset bend out of plane. If it bends towards the side with the single fillet it puts bending on the root of the fillet (I think?) and I don't think that is a good idea.

 

[Michel60]

Good morning Crackerjack,

According to the ASIC 14th Edition (pg8-15) one sided fillets are prohibited on elements of a connection "When lateral deformation is not otherwise prevented...". I'd take this to mean pretty much in all practical gusset plate applications you should be specifying both sides welded even if it means the resulting capacity far outstrips demand.

regards,
Michel

 

[ToadJones]

Hmmm, guess I could have saved myself some thought if I just read 8-15!!!

 

[Michel60]

Good morning ToadJomes,
Yep...I agree doing something based upon your clear understanding of the behavior and nature of the conditions at hand makes you a good engineer.
But doing something in the face of a clear published prohibition to that act makes you fodder for an attorney...always nice to have the former and know the reference to the latter.

regards,
Michel

 

[ToadJones]

Michel-
I was not trying to offend anyone....after reading my post it reads like I was being a wise guy. Not my intention. Sorry.

TJ

 

[Michel60]

I appreciate it, but no worries, no offense taken. I've seen nothing but helpful and considered comments on this site. It's the reason i chose to join in the conversation.

And even at that I've been on enough job sites to have been threatened by a big guy with hammer in his hand more than once...at this point it's hide like a rhinoceros, a little good-natured sarcasm isn't going to phase me. I'm given to it myself.


regards,
Michel

 

[BadgerPE]

Thanks for the help and information guys!

 

[aggman]

If the gusset plate is longer than 8" you may allow a stitched gusset plate. We do this a lot. Say 3" top and bottom on one side, wrapped around the end with returns and 3" in center on opposite side. I am not sure if the code prohibits it but it is a common detail I have seen on low load applications.

 

[connectegr]

ToadJones
FYI The edge of a cut edge is rarely square or perfect. A plasma or gas cut creates an inherent angle to the cut edge.

and Michel is correct an axial loaded plate which is not restrained from movement out of plane should have concentric welds.

If access is restricted a CJP or PJP(with consideration of thickness) can be used.

http://www.FerrellEngineering.com

Providing construction, fabrication, and erection efficient structural design of connections. Consulting services for structural welding and bolting.

 

[ToadJones]

Connect-
I guess I was more referring to the gusset being out-of-square to the column, not the edge of the plate.
I have had many many plates burned out on burn tables over the years and have seen how the edges are beveled.