3 story steel building - Column Splices

[strucguy]

I am designing a three story building. I see no reason to have column splices on the job as the longest column on the project will be 45 ft long, and there is no real economy in asking for a splice (was once told that typical column splice is equivalent to 500 lb of steel). But, my boss disagrees. His arguments being 45 ft is too long to haul and may cause stability issues during erection. I have hard time accepting that because I have designed one 3-story building before without any splices, and haven't heard any complaints. This time I would like to get a better insight before taking a specific route. Your feedback is highly appreciated.

 

[hokie66]

Marginal. I would detail a splice, and specify the location, but make it optional. That way, the contractor can decide, based on transport and erection considerations.

 

[strucguy]

Thanks for the prompt response, hokie66. Where do you think is the best place for splice? I am getting reduced tonnage when splice is located just over 2nd floor. Do you agree?

 

[racookpe1978]

Usual practice - if you need a splice at all - is 30 - 36 inches above the floor level. This lets the splice be worked at waist height.

Never immediately below floor height (top of concrete).

 

[wannabeSE]

Part 14 of AISC's Steel Construction Manual recommends 4' above the finish floor at the perimeter of the building to attach safety cables. If the building needs to satisfy AISC 341-05 seismic provisions, all gravity and lateral column splices must be a minimum of 4' from the beam to column connection unless the clear height between beam connection is less than 8 feet (then the splice needs to be 1/2 way between connections).