Grade of Steel
Grade of Steel
(OP)
I am evaluating an existing steel structure for current loads. I modeled the structure only to realize that the whole structure is failing, while in reality the structure is doing just fine. There is not explicit note on the drawings saying it is Fy=50 ksi structural steel and hence, I modeled it with 36ksi steel. Are there any tests out there that I can tell the owner to perform to confirm the grade of steel? Please let me know your thoughts on this subject.






RE: Grade of Steel
RE: Grade of Steel
RE: Grade of Steel
RE: Grade of Steel
I'm sure there are more that others will point out, but you get the picture.
RE: Grade of Steel
Why should you assume responsibility for certifying material properties which you cannot confirm? Unless, of course you enjoy the exhilaration of retaining lawyers, preparing statements of defense, giving evidence at examinations for discovery, appearing at court and finally, convincing the judge who hasn't the faintest idea of what you are talking about that you really were justified in assuming the steel had a yield of 50 ksi or more.
BA
RE: Grade of Steel
RE: Grade of Steel
RE: Grade of Steel
I might start by considering what was available and most widely used during the era of the date on the drawings.
It would seem that something out of the ordinary would have been so noted.