Hanging Glulam Beam
Hanging Glulam Beam
(OP)
I have a situation in a building we are designing in which the architect would like to hang a glulam beam (used for the ceiling framing) from a W beam above used for the roof framing. Are there any code limitations to utilizing a bolted connection to hang the glulam from the W beam. It was proposed by someone to use an inverted U-bucket welded to an HSS to hand from the W beam, and then use thru bolts through the glulam. Are there any code restrictions that anyone is aware of that will not allow this type of configuration. It seems to me as though you would be placing the laminations below the bottom row of bolts in the glulam into tension which is not a good idea.
Your thoughts?
Thanks
Your thoughts?
Thanks






RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
You leave a lot to the imagination as you describe your problem, a few sketches, loads and dimensions would really help to get the picture across. Your concern is partly right, in that cross grain tension from bolt bearing can be a problem if not handled properly. Proper attention to details, bolt hole end distances, bolt hole edge distance where only a few plies have cross grain tension, and code allowable bolt loadings, etc. usually takes care of this as Hokie suggests. In your case you don't want the bolt holes to close to the end of the glulam or to near the top few plies of the glulam, either will cause splitting when loaded. Why not put a 'U' shaped saddle under the glulam? Then your hanger system can be anything you want, welded or bolted to this saddle. Alternatively, two side plates on the glulam, bolted or shear plates if needed, or some such, in the bot. 2/3's of the glulam, then again, any hanging system.
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
I would second the concerns of dhengr above about proper bolt spacing, etc.
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
The Arch will love the connect since it wont show any fasteners!!!!
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam
I like glulam beams to bear on more than just bolts - just my gig - no code requirement here. I would install two vertical threaded rods from the plate above to another bearing plate below. The rods are at the center of the glulam, welded flush to the plate below, and tightened with bolts above the top plate.
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
RE: Hanging Glulam Beam