Beam End to Beam End Connection
Beam End to Beam End Connection
(OP)
I need to place an I beam, simply supported on the ends, across a 12 foot span.
Due to the geometry around the entrance to the room where the beam is to be installed, I can only bring in lengths of the I beam that are 6 feet or less.
I plan to butt two 6 foot lengths together, connecting them in the middle of the span.
What is a typical or recommended connection at this 'end to end' joint?
Should the connection plates be on the webs only? The flanges only? or Both?
I cannot seem to find a connection similar to this load case anywhere except for a column-end to column-end connection (where the connection plates are on the flanges only)
Note that, since this beam must be easily removed form the area from time to time, the connection must be a bolted connection.






RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
If the beam is highly stressed, the beam needs to be put back together as if it was never two pieces.
1. Full pen butt weld it together.
2. Use plates on the flanges and web. Size plates and welds to resist moment and shear.
3. Depending on the required load, bolted connection may work.
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
My point--the flanges must be spliced, as well as the web. This can be accomplished with a plate at each flange, and one at the web, or with an end plate moment connection.
DaveAtkins
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
Of course all of this should be sized by an experienced structural engineer but the technique is relatively common, especially in the pre-eng metal building industry.
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
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I think that is probably the best way to do it, actually I believe I have seen this before...I am going to go with this.
Thanks to all for your most-informative help.
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
Again, There are (I think) standard AISC proceedures for the design of this connection. I'm not sure about the latest edition but I think in the older (green) book. Maybe not but it's worth a look.
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
If you use fully tensioned bolts they can't be re-used if you they are removed.
RE: Beam End to Beam End Connection
Its conceptual.