Frequently Asked Questions

Connections (Welded)

For adding a support structure that allows us to hang a scoreboard in an existing sports centre, one engineer suggested we weld an HSS beam directly onto the flange of a fairly large W column. However, we are now working with another engineer that questions this practice. I am an architect and would like to know if we need to be concerned? - B.G.

2/2/2009

There are many ways to connect steel members and some are better than others. There is a big difference between what the fabricator needs to do to achieve weld quality in the field compared to what is needed in the fabricator's shop. In the field, bolting allows the fabricator more room to accommodate tolerances. And when that's not feasible, you try to use simple welding procedures, such as downhand welding and avoid welding abutting members, overhead welding, etc.

There are a few alternatives that you can consider that would avoid welding the HSS beam directly onto the flange of the W shape. Depending on the loading conditions, one alternative could be to first weld a seat or angle onto the flange, then weld the HSS beam onto the seat.