Shear Stud Ferrules

[WMcNultyPE]

I am working on a project with composite floor slabs, steel beams and steel deck. There are shear studs that are welded to the beams in the field with automatic stud welding equipment that requires the use of a ceramic ferrule at the base of the stud to shield the weld. After welding the studs, the ceramic ferrules are broken away from the base of the stud to allow visual inspection of the weld. The contractor has requested to leave the broken ferrule pieces on the deck prior to pouring the concrete. Has anyone heard of this practice? Do you find it acceptable?

 

[dik]

For reasons in your post, you do not want this... also interferes with the action of the stud at the critical location of the stud to the beam interface.

Dik

 

[BridgeSmith]

Dik, I think the OP is implying the ferrules would be broken off of the studs, but they just don't want to sweep up the pieces.

It shouldn't compromise the integrity of the concrete, as the ferrules are hard ceramic. The only downside I see is that it would seem to be a slipping hazard for the workers.