Aluminum beam connection.

[HeavyCivil]

I need to design a decking system over a 12'x40' area (concrete) in a WWTP. The framing and decking must be Aluminum with SS anchor bolts.

I am familiar with AISC connection design methods outlined in the design manual, but usually spec single pl. connection designed by fabricator anyway.

I am not very familiar with aluminum and I don't believe that a single pl. is the best option so I'm afraid I must design it. Does anyone have any resources for aluminum connection design? Could AISC methods potentially be used if Al. material properties are substituted?

Thanks

 

[Lion06]

What type of connections are you talking about?

 

[HeavyCivil]

I was thinkning double angle with concrete anchors. Want to avoid TIG - skilled welders are few and far between here.

 

[Lion06]

I originally thought you meant beam/girder, and girder/column connections, but the "anchor bolts" threw me. Welding aluminum reduces the allowable stress by A LOT. It's only for a few inches in the area of the weld, but it's a huge reduction. Don't weld aluminum if you don't have to.

 

[HeavyCivil]

Right- thats why I want to use a bolted double angle connection instead of welded single pl. I guess I should have said 'bolted'. So there will be SS bolts through both angles and beam web and anchor bolts through both anchor bolts into conc wall.

 

[Ron]

VTEIT...check The Aluminum Association's Aluminum Design Manual. It addresses both ASD and LRFD, and connections under each.

ADM 2005 is the latest version, but ADM 2000 is easier to use.

 

[HeavyCivil]

I wrangled up a copy (2000) and it's just what I was looking for.

Thanks Ron!