Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
(OP)
I am designing a large industrial mezzanine in state of LA. I would like to weld my bar grating to the structural steel, so it may be used as a diaphragm to transfer my forces to my bracing system. I do not know how to quantify the diaphragm capacity of the grating. I called the McNichols Company for information, but they could not help at all. Has anyone used bar grating as a diaphragm? What are your thoughts on it?
Horizontal rod or angle bracing would not be easy to install.
Thanks
Paul
Horizontal rod or angle bracing would not be easy to install.
Thanks
Paul






RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
I realize it is not typical to use bar grating as a diaphragm. The reason I would like to use it as a diaphragm is because using rods or angle iron is not easily done in this case due to the equipment being supported.
The equipment are cooling towers, which protrude below the grating levels, thereby creating obstructions to using typical bracing methods.
Paul
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
Good luck
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
If there is enough floor area for you to want to use a diaphragm, there should be enough floor area to provide bracing.
You might have to add struts as well as diagonals to come up with a workable bracing pattern.
Good Luck!
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
Then you are using the plate element to carry the horizontal shear. I have not seen any published data by any grating manufacturers with diaphragm values.
If any one knows of any, please let me know.
Regards,
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
paul
RE: Using Bar Grating as a Diaphragm
Angle bracing set, say 75mm, below the beam top of steel is fairly conventional.