How to Design Beam Column Joints for Seismic Resistance

In many areas of the country, seismic activity in the form of earthquakes and tremors has a huge impact on the design and construction of buildings. One of the most important issues to consider is that of the design of beam and column joints in steel structures. These specialized connections, often called rigid or moment connections, work by developing specified resisting moment that enables the connection to maintain its original geometry when under seismic stress. Proper design of these connections is imperative, and structures that perform well in earthquakes are the result.

Welder
Bolts
Wrenches

Instructions

- 1
  Cut stiffener plates from steel stock of the proper size. The proper size varies tremendously depending on the size of beams and columns being used. Cut two identical plates for the top and bottom stiffener plates.
- 2
  Attach the stiffener plates to the top and bottom of the beam. Use high strength bolts as required by the structural design. Once the bolts are tightened, weld around the edges of the plate to ensure adequate strength.
- 3
  Bolt and weld the attachment plates to the web of the beam in a similar fashion. These plates attach to the web of the beam and then are welded to the column to form a secure connection.
- 4
  Weld the connector plates to the column, and then weld the stiffener plates, located on the top and bottom of the beam, to the column as well. Since all plates are bolted and welded, this is a rigid connection that is able to perform well during seismic activity.

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