shamrock53
Structural
- Feb 5, 2019
- 2
Hello, first time poster long time user.
We are checking a number of steel quad chord sign support structures for a project, both adding new signs to existing structures and new custom structures. All non-cantilevered / span type with either all welded gussets or welded / bolted gusset plate connections. See images below.
The governing code is the sixth edition of the AASHTO Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signs. The code has alot of guidance for checking members, calculating wind loads, ect. but very little guidance for connections.
My question is what connection limit states do others check for these types of structures? Example calculations I've found only seem to check fatigue prone connections under fatigue design loads (natural gusts, truck induced gusts)? If these were vertical braces AISC would require envelope checks under all group load combination. I.e.:
- gusset tearing buckling checks
- pipe wall crushing / plastification
- block shear of bolts through gusset plates
- etc.
Am I over thinking this?
We are checking a number of steel quad chord sign support structures for a project, both adding new signs to existing structures and new custom structures. All non-cantilevered / span type with either all welded gussets or welded / bolted gusset plate connections. See images below.
The governing code is the sixth edition of the AASHTO Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signs. The code has alot of guidance for checking members, calculating wind loads, ect. but very little guidance for connections.
My question is what connection limit states do others check for these types of structures? Example calculations I've found only seem to check fatigue prone connections under fatigue design loads (natural gusts, truck induced gusts)? If these were vertical braces AISC would require envelope checks under all group load combination. I.e.:
- gusset tearing buckling checks
- pipe wall crushing / plastification
- block shear of bolts through gusset plates
- etc.
Am I over thinking this?
