Steel Column Reinforcement
Steel Column Reinforcement
(OP)
See attached sketch for planned reinforcement (Existing W-shape with 4 angles)
We are reinforcing some steel columns to increase their weak axis buckling resistance. There is currently alot of existing beams that are connected into the W-shape column, so rather than having to cut back all the beams to allow for the reinforcement, we are proposing to add angles at the flanges so there is not interference with the current structure.
I was just wondering on what checks I should be make other than just the built-up section resistance? I am also not totally sure how to check the class of the attached section.
We are reinforcing some steel columns to increase their weak axis buckling resistance. There is currently alot of existing beams that are connected into the W-shape column, so rather than having to cut back all the beams to allow for the reinforcement, we are proposing to add angles at the flanges so there is not interference with the current structure.
I was just wondering on what checks I should be make other than just the built-up section resistance? I am also not totally sure how to check the class of the attached section.





RE: Steel Column Reinforcement
RE: Steel Column Reinforcement
The analysis of the column would fall under Chapter E of AISC (if you are US) - you'd just have to check against local buckling of the angle legs - perhaps make them thick enough so local buckling doesn't control.
One other thought is that to increase buckling resistance, you wouldn't have to extend the reinforcing through or past the intersecting beams. Just reinforce up to the beams such that the stiffened section of column between the beams will be improved. The small section of existing column at the beams can remain as is as I would assume the yielding of that column in that area won't control the overall design of the column.
RE: Steel Column Reinforcement
A paper from AISC discusses reinforcing loaded columns called "Reinforcing Loaded Steel Compression Members" from J.H. Brown. It outlines a design procedure that may be helpful as well.
RE: Steel Column Reinforcement
And, reinforcing only a portion of the column still casues problems, as many of the supportted beams do not provide adequate lateral resistance to act as a brace point.
Thanks again!