What tie to use on stacked beams

[bobost]

Hi, all. Need some tie ideas.

A modular home being designed has a row of lally columns in center of the basement to support the 2 perimeter beams of the modules, which then become the center beams of the house. The homeowner wanted to remove one of the columns, so we designed a 7" x 9-1/4" PSL beam to go over the span of the missing column. The four 2x10s of the modular will then sit parallel on it. What ties do you recommend be used? We had originally thought of using a Simpson CCQ column cap, but the modular is dropped with a gap and then then pulled together. Therefore, any tie must be done after the set is complete. Any ideas would be appreciated.

 

[jerseyshore]

Are you worried about the connection from column to PSL or from PSL to 2x10's (or both)?

 

[bobost]

Both

 

[jerseyshore]

I would use a LCC from the lally column to the lower beam and then you could probably use one of the coil straps to connect from beam to beam. It's only 0.5" max or so on each side and those are pretty flexible.

 

[bobost]

The LCC was what we had in mind for the column. The main issue was the PSL to 2x10's. What model and gauge straps would you recommend? Also the amount of straps and spacing. There is around 16,000 lbs of load on that beam. Thanks

 

[jerseyshore]

It's just a beam sitting on top of another beam so you really only need some straps for uplift if that is a concern. If you're worried about them moving separately then block out the top beam the 1/2" on each side so both beams are flush then put some of those Simpson tie plates along the sides to prevent either beam from shifting laterally.

 

[bobost]

The blocking is a good idea. What would be good for that? Thanks

 

[jerseyshore]

Well you have 6" of 2x's and 7" of PSL so that leaves you a half inch on both sides. Just use 1/2" plywood.

 

[bobost]

Thanks