A flange-plate splice joint, also known as a bolted flange connection, is a type of connection used to join two structural members, typically steel beams, end-to-end. It involves bolting a flange plate to the flanges of the beams, providing strength and continuity to the structure. The flange-plate splice joint is commonly used in applications where welding may not be feasible or desired. Here is a step-by-step procedure for making a flange-plate splice joint:
Step 1: Design and Calculation
- Determine the loads and forces acting on the structure, including axial loads, shear forces, and bending moments.
- Calculate the required size and strength of the beams, flange plates, and bolts based on the applied loads, material properties, and design criteria.
- Determine the required number and arrangement of bolts for the connection.
Step 2: Preparation
- Gather the necessary materials, including the steel beams, flange plates, bolts, nuts, and washers.
- Ensure that the surfaces to be bolted are clean and free from rust, oil, paint, or any other contaminants.
- Prepare the bolted connection by drilling the necessary bolt holes in the flange plates and beams.
Step 3: Alignment and Fit-Up
- Position the beams in alignment with each other, ensuring proper orientation and contact between the flanges.
- Use clamps or temporary tack welds to hold the beams in position during the connection process.
- Ensure that the flange plates are properly aligned with the flanges of the beams.
Step 4: Flange Plate Installation
- Place the flange plates against the flanges of the beams, ensuring proper alignment and fit.
- Mark the positions for bolt holes on the flanges and flange plates.
- Remove the flange plates and drill the necessary bolt holes in the flanges and flange plates according to the marked positions.
Step 5: Bolted Connection
- Position the flange plates against the flanges of the beams, aligning the bolt holes.
- Insert bolts through the holes, placing washers and nuts on the opposite side of the flange plates.
- Tighten the nuts using an appropriate torque wrench or other tightening method, ensuring proper tension in the bolts.
- Follow the recommended tightening sequence and torque values specified by the design standards.
Step 6: Quality Control
- Inspect the bolted connection visually to ensure the flange plates are properly aligned and tightened.
- Verify the dimensions and overall quality of the connection according to the design specifications.
- Conduct any required testing or inspections as per industry standards and project requirements to ensure the integrity and strength of the connection.
Example and Application: Flange-plate splice joints are commonly used in various applications, including:
- Steel structures: Flange-plate splice joints are widely used in steel buildings, bridges, and industrial structures where the connection between steel beams needs to be made using bolted connections.
- Crane runway beams: In crane systems, flange-plate splice joints can be used to join the runway beams, providing strength and continuity to support heavy loads and ensure stability.
- Industrial platforms and walkways: Flange-plate splice joints are used to connect structural members in industrial platforms, walkways, and mezzanines, providing a secure and rigid connection.
It is important to consult design specifications and follow recommended practices when selecting and installing flange-plate splice joints to ensure they meet the specific requirements of your application and adhere to relevant codes and standards.
