tension flange drilled connection

[Liz5463]

I am looking to make a structural connection to the bottom flange of a stringer in the tension region on a bridge. The stringer has excess capacity for this connection but I don't know if there is anything in AASHTO about not drilling in tension areas.

 

[bridgebuster]

Drilling in a tension flange is OK; just check the specs if you have to reduce the capacity of the member due to reduction of net area.

 

[EQguys]

Since it is a tension flange, also check to see if the stress ranges in the stringer under live loads only, are within the allowable stress range for fatigue, corresponding to the connection detail.