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Open Web Steel Joist - Attachment to Clay Brick Load Bearing Wall

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EZBuilding

Structural
Aug 26, 2014
368
US
I am performing an assessment of an existing building - built in the 1960's - and the connections between the open web steel joists to the load bearing clay brick walls are unconventional. Note that these are the only connections between the walls and the diaphragm.

Open_Web_Steel_Joist_Attachment_to_Clay_Brick_Wall_zrtjfa.jpg


Connection #1 is an omega shaped steel rod placed tight against the joist set, with a 2" rod embedment into the collar joint.

Connection_1_-_Omega_Anchor_embedded_in_Collar_joint_-_Upload_byadyd.jpg


Connection #2 is a 6" steel rod embedded in the collar joint and welded to a steel plate. An angle is tack welded to the metal plate, and welded to the joist top chord.

Connection_2_-_Metal_Plate_and_Steel_bar_embedded_in_collar_joint_-_upload_suf5ur.jpg


Questions:
Has anyone seen this type of attachment before?
Would you calculate a capacity for these connections analytically, or do you anticipate that these connections would need to be tested to validate a shear and tensile capacity.
Would you rely on these connections as the only connection between your diaphragm and your lateral force resisting system?
 
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I have emailed Vulcraft and the sales rep I spoke to had not seen this type of attachment before. He was going to be sharing it internally to see if anyone has any information.

Although this is a thinly veiled attempt to bump up this thread, I'll also continue updating it based on information I find.
 
Those 'omega' things were pretty common in that time frame. I've seen them on a few buildings. If the masonry is in good shape and no real corrosion on any of the components, I'd be willing to leave them be (they've been doing their job for quite some time). I would not, however, rely on them for any increased loading if you're making changes to the building.
 
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