CJP Weld Root Opening Tolerances for Beam to Column

[jropert]

What is the allowable tolerance (if any) for the gap between beam flanges and column faces for Complete-Joint Penetration Groove Welds?

The AWS D1.1 apparently indicates that the root opening (for a 45-degree groove angle/beam flange bevel) should be 1/4" with a backing bar utilized. After installing some of our beams, there are gaps between the beam flanges and column faces (wide flange columns btw) that exceed 1/4" (some instances 1/2" or slightly more). All columns are plumb and there is proper fit-up at the shear tabs with bolts.

These connections are for moment frames, so we want to be sure we don't exceed any weld size or root opening tolerances of course. We are not sure if our steel supplier "missed the mark" in fabrication of setting bolts holes in the shear tabs and beams too far away from each other?

Any insight and/or references to tolerances in the codes would be greatly appreciated.

 

[wannabeSE]

It should be in AWS D1.1. However, the Steel Construction Manual has as "fit-up tolerances" for prequalified CJP single bevel groove welds with backing ( for example TC-U4A +1/4", -1/16") and references D1.1 section 3.13.1. It is best to look at D1.1 to see what it says.

 

[DekDee]

jropert,
Does this help ?

5.22.4.3 Correction. Root openings greater than
those allowed in 5.22.4.1, but not greater than twice the
thickness of the thinner part or 3/4 in. [20 mm], whichever
is less, may be corrected by welding to acceptable
dimensions prior to joining the parts by welding.

5.22.4.4 Engineer’s Approval. Root openings
greater than allowed by 5.22.4.3 may be corrected by
welding only with the approval of the Engineer.

Cheers,
DD

 

[jropert]

Thanks DekDee. We were looking for references to take corrective measures. It appears that chapter 5 covers that in our case (with the references you indicated). For the most part we will be within tolerances of the 3.13.1 reference (+1/4" for single V-Groove CJP welds) per figure 3.4 (of AWS D1.1).

Sincerely,
JR

 

[connectegr]

Typically "buttering" is used to reduce an oversized root opening. As mentioned above, EOR approval may be required.

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