Web Stiffener Design?

[4jgm]

Hello all,

I am designing a carrier beam for platform support. Although web crippling is not an issue, supplier wants to add a 1/2" thick web stiffener plate at three locations. Two at end support and one in the middle. Now, the question is how do I check the stiffener if there is only one concentrated load in the center of the beam?

I am a recent graduate and seeking to learn from the expertise in this forum.

Thanks

 

[slickdeals]

You need a stiffener at the end regardless of web failure checks. This is to prevent end rotation. The basis of all beam strength formulations is that end rotation is prevented. As for the intermediate web stiffener, I am not sure why one would need it, if it meets all strength requirements. It may just be a detailing practice for the supplier.

 

[spats]

Add the stiffener, and move on. I'm sure you have better things to worry about.

 

[peconsultant]

I aggree with spats, show a 1/4" plate with a minimum fillet weld to make the client happy.

 

[firai]

slickdeals is right. In addition, the stiffener requirement at the end of your beam is codified in the AISC spec J10.7. If the loads don't exceed the web strength at mid-span, then a stiffener isn't technically required there, but I would just leave it in; the stiffeners aren't all that expensive.

Structural Design Engineer
New York, NY