Centering diagonals vs centering connection gussets
Centering diagonals vs centering connection gussets
(OP)
Hi all,
I'm currently learning connections and I would like to debate how does one design the bracing connections in terms of centering to the beams and columns;
Initially I would thought that centering the gusset plate would be better for symmetry of the anchor bolts or beam bolts (see attachment on right), but in practice I have seen people centering the diagonal to the column and leaving the gusset plate eccentric to the column (see attachment on left), which makes more sense for the analysis, since this was made as that.
I'm currently more inclined to the right option because the eccentricity is small for the columns and beams and I'm somehow tight in this particular connection.
What do you think about it? Do you have any preference?
Best regards.
I'm currently learning connections and I would like to debate how does one design the bracing connections in terms of centering to the beams and columns;
Initially I would thought that centering the gusset plate would be better for symmetry of the anchor bolts or beam bolts (see attachment on right), but in practice I have seen people centering the diagonal to the column and leaving the gusset plate eccentric to the column (see attachment on left), which makes more sense for the analysis, since this was made as that.
I'm currently more inclined to the right option because the eccentricity is small for the columns and beams and I'm somehow tight in this particular connection.
What do you think about it? Do you have any preference?
Best regards.






RE: Centering diagonals vs centering connection gussets
At the end of the day, I don't feel that the minor eccentricity matters much from a technical perspective. We're assembling buildings here, not pianos. And I think it would be awkward to try have all your beams offset that tiny amount, particularly if that amount is changing in different situations.
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Centering diagonals vs centering connection gussets
RE: Centering diagonals vs centering connection gussets
One typically designs the brace for eccentric connecting material, but not the column/beam it's connected to.
For example, see Table 4-12 in the AISC manual, which accounts for eccentric loading due to the offset gusset on an angle shape.