A bolted flange plate connection is a type of structural connection used to join two plates or components together. It involves the use of bolts and flange plates to create a secure and rigid connection. This type of connection is commonly used in steel structures, such as buildings, bridges, and industrial equipment.
Here is a step-by-step procedure for making a bolted flange plate connection:
- Design and Preparation:
- Determine the required strength and load-bearing capacity of the connection based on the structural requirements.
- Select the appropriate flange plates and bolts based on the design specifications, considering factors such as material strength, size, and corrosion resistance.
- Ensure that the surfaces of the plates are clean, smooth, and free from any debris, rust, or paint.
- Alignment and Positioning:
- Position the two plates to be connected, ensuring they are properly aligned and fit together accurately.
- Use temporary clamps or tack welds to hold the plates in place, ensuring they do not move during the connection process.
- Drilling:
- Mark the positions for the bolt holes on the flange plates, following the specified spacing and pattern.
- Use a drill press or portable drilling machine to drill holes through the marked positions on both plates simultaneously. Ensure that the holes are perpendicular to the plate surfaces.
- Deburring and Cleaning:
- Remove any burrs or sharp edges around the drilled holes using a deburring tool or file.
- Clean the holes and plate surfaces to remove any debris, oil, or grease, as these can affect the connection’s integrity.
- Inserting Bolts and Flange Plates:
- Insert the bolts into the holes on one of the flange plates.
- Place the other flange plate on top, aligning the holes with the bolts.
- Ensure that the bolts pass through the holes without binding or misalignment.
- Tightening the Bolts:
- Place flat washers and nuts onto the exposed ends of the bolts.
- Begin tightening the bolts using an appropriate wrench or torque wrench.
- Tighten the bolts gradually and evenly in a crisscross pattern to distribute the load and prevent distortion of the plates.
- Follow the recommended torque specifications provided by the bolt manufacturer or the design engineer.
- Final Inspection:
- Inspect the connection to ensure that the plates are securely fastened and aligned.
- Check for any gaps, misalignment, or visible signs of damage or distortion.
- Verify that the bolt heads and nuts are properly seated and tightened.
Example and Application: An example of a bolted flange plate connection is the connection between steel beams in a building frame. Flange plates are typically attached to the ends of the beams, and bolts are used to secure the plates together. This connection provides stability and strength to the overall structure.
Applications of bolted flange plate connections include:
- Steel buildings and structures, such as warehouses, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings.
- Bridges and highway structures, where the connection between girders and piers is crucial.
- Heavy machinery and equipment, where the connection between different components needs to withstand high loads and vibrations.
Overall, bolted flange plate connections offer a reliable and versatile method of joining plates or components in various structural applications. They provide ease of assembly, disassembly, and maintenance, making them a popular choice in the construction industry.
