Openings in cylindrical shells
Openings in cylindrical shells
(OP)
I am seeking advice on the design of a handhole opening in a round steel column used to support an overhead sign. Biaxial bending, axial compression and torsional forces are applied.
The client wants a 6" x 8" handhole placed in an 18" upright, near the column base. The 6" dimension is along the circumference, and the 8" dimen is along the axis. The hole will be capsule shaped (i.e., 3" radii)
I've seen other details where the edge is reinforced using a metal plate, full pen welded all around.
Any ideas where I can find a good reference or design example for this problem?
Thanks for your valued assistance!
The client wants a 6" x 8" handhole placed in an 18" upright, near the column base. The 6" dimension is along the circumference, and the 8" dimen is along the axis. The hole will be capsule shaped (i.e., 3" radii)
I've seen other details where the edge is reinforced using a metal plate, full pen welded all around.
Any ideas where I can find a good reference or design example for this problem?
Thanks for your valued assistance!






RE: Openings in cylindrical shells
The basic principle for reinforcing such an opening is to replace the area of material lost due to the cutout. For example, for a 6" diameter cutout, the reinforceing plate will typically be twice the diameter of the hole. The reinforcing plate will be the same thickness as the material removed.
Consult ACI650 for additional information.
RE: Openings in cylindrical shells
RE: Openings in cylindrical shells
While our local DOT does have details for reinforced handholes, they are typically used for signal and lighting masts. The bending and torsional forces are much greater on the sign structures.
Regards, RAF