SMF Beam Bracing
SMF Beam Bracing
(OP)
I have a question regarding SMF beam bracing. Per AISC 341-05, 9.8, both flanges of the beam shall be braced. The brace strength, Pbr, is from the 13th ed steel manual equation A-6-7. Now if I am bracing the top and bottom flange at the same location (via tab plate) – should I design the bracing and resistance [wood diaphragm] for twice the brace strength 2*Pb? This seems appropriate as if I was to brace each flange separately (say with conc over metal deck for the top and angle kickers for the bottom flange) I would design each brace for the full Pbr.
Appreciate any and all responses. Thank you for your time!
Appreciate any and all responses. Thank you for your time!






RE: SMF Beam Bracing
RE: SMF Beam Bracing
I might be wrong but this sounds right to me. I didn't look it up though.
In a wood diaphragm I think your biggest problem will be the stiffness requirements for the bracing.
RE: SMF Beam Bracing