bolt hole thru weld

[CTSeng]

Have a condition where a steel fabricator was permitted to CJP weld a continuous member and because of some changes a connecting beam now requires bolt holes directly thru the weld. Is this prohibited in the code? It's a relatively light connection so my gut reaction is that it would be fine but I've told them that there may be some issues trying to drill a weld.

Any input is appreciated.

 

[slickdeals]

Are there no other alternatives? Why does the connection have to be bolted into the continuous beam? Can it not be a welded tab/angle?

I am not sure of the specifics of the code. Once a CJP weld is done, it is as good as the member. But I don't know if it the same thing as drilling a hole through a member vs. drilling it through weld metal. Do we have to worry about stress risers etc.? I am not sure.

 

[CTSeng]

There are other options, just never something I've run into before and was curious if anyone had some insight into whether it is permitted or not.

Thanks.

 

[slickdeals]

Me neither, lets see what the elders have to say

 

[connectegr]

Drilling through the CJP weld is permitted, but can be difficult. Drilling through weld metal can cause the drill to drift and create a non-standard hole. I have seen a similar condition where bolt holes are mis-located in fabrication. The holes can be plug welded and re-drilled. However the concern of drift as the hole is drilled must be watched. AISC does not have allowances for non-standard holes sizes.

You must also verify that the location of the hole does not cause other issues. Net capacity, residual stresses, etc

ref. AISC Engineering and Quality Criteria for Steel Structures - Common Questions Answered

 

[Ron]

No prohibition for this. As noted, sometimes drilling through the weld can be difficult. I would suggest pre-drilling with smaller pilot hole before drilling the full-size hole. Make sure the surface to be drilled is ground flush with the surrounding surface before drilling (seems obvious, but you never know what a fabricator or contractor will try!) Don't let them flame cut the hole!

 

[connectegr]

I agree with Ron. NO TORCH

However, burned holes are technically allowed. If necessary, I recommend burning a smaller hole and reaming to the required diameter.