A bolted flange plate connection is a type of structural connection used to join two or more steel members together. It consists of a flange plate attached to one member and a corresponding flange plate attached to the other member, with bolts passing through the plates to create a secure connection. This type of connection is commonly used in steel structures such as bridges, buildings, and industrial facilities.
Here is a step-by-step procedure for making a bolted flange plate connection:
- Design and Preparation:
- Determine the required load-bearing capacity, bolt spacing, and plate dimensions based on the structural requirements and design specifications.
- Select the appropriate steel plates, bolts, nuts, washers, and other connection components based on the design criteria.
- Alignment and Positioning:
- Position the steel members that need to be connected, ensuring proper alignment and fit.
- Use temporary clamps or tack welds to hold the members in place during the connection process.
- Marking and 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 the plates. Ensure that the holes are aligned and 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 plate surfaces to remove any debris, oil, or grease that may affect the connection’s integrity.
- Inserting Bolts:
- Insert high-strength bolts through the holes in one flange plate.
- Place washers and nuts onto the exposed ends of the bolts.
- Flange Plate Attachment:
- Position the flange plate with bolts onto the corresponding flange plate on the other member, aligning the bolt holes.
- Ensure that the flange plates are in contact and properly aligned.
- Tightening the Bolts:
- Use a suitable wrench or impact wrench to snugly tighten the nuts until they are in contact with the washers and the joint is fully closed.
- Follow the specified tightening sequence to ensure even distribution of the bolt preload.
- Tighten the bolts gradually and uniformly, avoiding excessive force that may cause damage or distortion.
- Final Inspection:
- Inspect the connection to ensure that the bolts, nuts, and washers are properly seated and tightened.
- Check for any gaps, misalignment, or visible signs of damage or distortion.
- Verify that the connection provides the required load-bearing capacity and can withstand the specified loads.
Example and Application: An example of a bolted flange plate connection is the connection between steel beams and columns in a building or bridge structure. Bolted flange plate connections are commonly used in applications where a strong and rigid connection is required to transfer loads between structural members.
Applications of bolted flange plate connections include:
- Building construction, where bolted flange plate connections are used to join steel beams, columns, and other structural components.
- Bridge construction, where bolted flange plate connections are employed to connect steel girders, trusses, and other bridge elements.
- Industrial structures, such as power plants, manufacturing facilities, or warehouses, where bolted flange plate connections are used for connecting steel components subject to significant loads and forces.
The bolted flange plate connection offers several advantages, including ease of installation, flexibility in design, and the ability to disassemble and reassemble the connection if needed. It provides a reliable and efficient means of joining steel members in various structural applications.
