Overlapping slotted holes in '+' configuration

[bugbus]

I have a situation where some lightweight decorative steel panels need to be connected to an existing wall.

For visual reasons it is important for all the panels to line up precisely, including along the length of the wall (to ensure equal gaps between panels) and in the direction towards/away from the wall (to ensure all panels are at the same distance from the wall and flush with each other). In the vertical direction, any required tolerance would be achieved by shims/packers.

Is it permissible to have a slotted hole in both the wall connection and also the panel connection, so that when viewed from above the slotted holes overlap to form a '+' arrangement allowing adjustment in any direction?

The forces on the connections are very small, and do not include the weight of the panels themselves.

 

[ProgrammingPE]

Per AISC 360-16, Section J3.2f, long-slotted holes are permitted in only one of the connected parts. This is not a requirement for oversized holes or short-slotted holes, but that probably doesn't get you the amount of flexibility that you want. You would also need to use slip-critical connections since some of your load will be applied in the direction of the slot.

Structural Engineering Software:

http://www.structuralcentral.com

Structural Engineering Videos:

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOj2mXXf3ZbZtgxTc6BtkGg

 

[bugbus]

Thanks ProgrammingPE

I'm not familiar with AISC. Could you tell me the definition of a short and long slotted hole?

 

[ProgrammingPE]

Short-slotted and long-slotted hole dimensions are per the table below:

You also need to use plate washers or continuous bars that completely cover the holes for long-slotted holes.

Structural Engineering Software:

http://www.structuralcentral.com

Structural Engineering Videos:

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOj2mXXf3ZbZtgxTc6BtkGg

 

[phamENG]

No idea about Australian standards, but I don't see why not. These are lightweight and decorative, not structural. So typical structural building codes probably wouldn't apply.

 

[Tomfh]

If it’s just some decorative screening then it should be fine. A bolt thru a cross would honestly be a lot better than half of the “engineered” facade connections we encounter.

I’d satisfy myself that the friction from a hand tight bolt was sufficient and leave it at that.

 

[EngMan10]

HI ProgrammingPE,

I am considering a bolted connection with long slotted holes,

You also need to use plate washers or continuous bars that completely cover the holes for long-slotted holes.

I am struggling to understand what AISC means with a continuos bars. Sorry for this silly question but can you explain me better?

Another point, can the plate washer be provided with a slotted hole or a standard hole is mandatory ? Obviously these washers we'll be large enough to cover the whole slot according to AISC.

Many thanks.

 

[rb1957]

I'd make the washers bigger than the slot length ... maybe the pin won't be in center of the slot ?

If you're worried appearance, I'd also use a CSK fastener, to keep the head flush with the washer.

another day in paradise, or is paradise one day closer ?