should column top plates be same size as beams they support? 1

[Polar24]

Going to be have a 5x5x3/8" hss column supporting a 10x60 steel beam.

Should the top plate of column match the width of the bottom web of w10x60?
Would the base plate need to be the same size?

Thanks

 

[dik]

It's often spec'd as such, but they don't have to be.

-----*****-----
So strange to see the singularity approaching while the entire planet is rapidly turning into a hellscape. -John Coates

-Dik

 

[phamENG]

Depends on the connection. If bolted, same width is normal (or next "easy" size for fabrication). If welded, slightly wider so the welds don't have to be overhead.

 

[SteelTubes]

Check out these two articles for advice on sizing cap plates:

https://steeltubeinstitute.org/reso...-effective-hss-specification-and-fabrication/

https://steeltubeinstitute.org/resources/hss-limit-states-cap-plate-connections/

 

[XR250]

Around here on residential jobs, most do not use top plates. They just weld directly. I guess the overhead welds do not suck too badly for them.