Spliced Tension Plate

[StrucPEng]

Hi All,

Question about splice welding a tension plate. We have multiple strap plates that are acting in tension only and due to the material procurement had to be spliced together to get the full length. Somewhere along the line it was relayed to the fabricator by the GC that these plates were to be spliced at a 45 degree in plan (see attached sketch). As long as these splice welds are full pen welds to develop the full tensile strength of the plate, does it really matter the orientation? I would rather not have them fix it if there is no difference.

Thanks for the feedback!

 

[r13]

I don't like it, but I've nothing to backup my dislike, except, IMO, the weld is stronger and stiffer than the base material, thus the stress near the joint might be affected by the uneven rigidity, and create a weak plane there. Why not test one to see the failure mode.

 

[CANPRO]

The 45° splice is unnecessary. If anything it just increases your weld length and chances of a defect. In bridge work, flanges and webs are spliced all the time and it is never at 45°.

CJP square to the plate and 100% non-destructive examination of the welds - pretty standard.

 

[StrucPEng]

I agree with the gut feeling dislike of the detail. I also agree that it is completely unnecessary to splice it on a 45. I was very surprised when I saw this was the case as we didn't ask for that at all just a full capacity splice. With that said, the work has been done for most of the plates and if I don't have to tell them to redo it I would prefer that. Agree also on the NDT testing.

 

[1503-44]

I doubt it makes any real difference except for more welding and finishing time. If its already done, don't make them "fix it". That might make it worse.

 

[bugbus]

I don't see any problem with it, even though it's not necessary.

"I don't like it" isn't really a reason

 

[dhengr]

StrucPEng:
They have to have used welding rod or wire and process at least as strong as the base plate material. Otherwise, the design has to be based on the lesser material strength. Fill any nicks, holes or undercuts in the face surfaces and edges, and grind it all smooth with a slight radius on the edge/corners. Then, UT the weld joints.