Seismic Detailing of Gusset Plates For S

July 2006
Seismic Detailing of
Gusset Plates for Special
Concentrically Braced Frames
By
Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Ph.D., P.E., Michael L. Cochran, S.E.

Professor Vice President
Department of Civil and Env. Engineering , and Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc.
Center for Catastrophic Risk Management Consulting Structural Engineers, Los Angles
University of California, Berkeley
and
Rafael Sabelli, S.E.

Principal, Director of Technical Development
DASSE Design Inc.
Structural Engineers
San Francisco Oakland
Copyright © by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli, 2006.

____________________________________________________________
All rights reserved.

Seismic Detailing of Gusset Plates for Special
Concentrically Braced Frames
By Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli
Summary
This Steel Technical Information and Product Services (Steel TIPS) report focuses on providing
information to steel fabricators, detailers and structural engineers on detailing gusset plates in special concentrically
braced frames. Current seismic design requirements (AISC, 2005c) for Special Concentric Braced Frames (SCBFs)
permit braces, that buckle out of plane of the gusset, to be designed as having pinned ends if a detail can be
provided that allows for the expected end rotation from brace buckling. Tests by Astaneh-Asl, Goel and Hanson
(1982) using hinge zone length of zero, t, 2t, and 4t showed that the length of 2t is sufficient to accommodate the
expected cyclic rotation of end of the bracing member as it undergoes cyclic buckling. The specimens with hinge
zone length of less than 2t did not perform in a sufficiently ductile manner to be qualified for use in Special
Concentrically Braced Frames. Satisfying this requirement in design office or fabricating shop can be an iterative
and sometimes a time-consuming process. The main goal of this report is to provide assistance in this regard by
presenting simple and closed-form equations that can be used in detailing the gusset plate without a need for
iterations. In addition, a number of suggested ”Preferred Details” of gusset plates for Special Concentrically Braced
Frames are provided that can assist design professionals as well as steel fabricators and erectors in proper and
economical detailing of the gusset plate for Special Concentrically Braced Frames.
First Printing, July 2006

Drawings and Photos by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl unless otherwise indicated.
COPYRIGHT © 2006 by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli. All rights reserved.
No parts of this report can be reproduced in any form, or included in other documents without the written
permission of copyright holder.
Authors:
Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Ph.D., P.E., Professor,

University of California, Berkeley
Phone: (925) 946-0903, e-mail: astaneh@ce.berkeley.edu,Web: www.ce.berkeley.edu/~astaneh
Michael L. Cochran, S.E., Vice President,

Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc., Consulting Structural Engineers, Los Angeles.
Rafael Sabelli, S.E., Principal, Director of Technical Development

DASSE Design Inc. Structural Engineers, San Francisco Oakland
Copyright © 2006 by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli, All rights reserved.
Seismic Detailing of Gusset Plates for Special Concentrically Braced Frames
1
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Funding for the publication was provided in part by the California Iron Workers
Administrative Trust. The publication of this report was made possible by the support of the
Structural Steel Educational Council (SSEC). The authors wish to thank all SSEC members,
particularly Fred Boettler, SSEC Administrator, James J. Putki, Patrick M. Hassett and Jeffrey
Eandi (current chair of the SSEC), for their technical input and review comments. Special
thanks are due to Jeffrey Eandi for suggesting the need for information in the fabricating shops
on the subject of this Steel TIPS.
Dave Berrens and Matthew Morrison of the PDM Strocal Inc., Steve Richardson of the
W & W Steel Company,William A. Thornton of the Cives Steel Company and Jamie Winans of
the Herrick Corporation provided very valuable comments on the design and detailing of gusset
plates as well as economical “suggested details”. The authors appreciate their time and input..
Thanks are also due to Dr. Edward (Xiaoxuan) Qi of the MIDDLEBROOK + LOUIE , Structural
Engineers of San Francisco, Bill Lindley and Ted Winneberger of the W&W Steel Company of
Oklahoma City and Dr. Mahmoud Rezai of BPA Group, Seattle for providing comments on
gusset plates to the first author in the past as well as for allowing us to use their concepts of
detailing of gusset plates in developing “Preferred Details” presented in this report.
The opinions expressed in this report are solely those of the authors and do not
necessarily reflect the views of the University of California, Berkeley, Brian L. Cochran
Associates Inc. and, DASSE Design Inc. where the authors are employed. In addition, the
opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Structural Steel Educational
Council or other agencies and individuals whose names appear in this report.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this publication has been prepared in accordance
with recognized engineering principles and is for general information only. While it is
believed to be accurate, this information should not be used or relied upon for any specific
application without competent professional examination and verification of its accuracy,
suitability, and applicability by a licensed professional engineer, designer, or architect. The
publication of the material contained herein is not intended as a representation or warranty on
the part of the Structural Steel Educational Council, or of any other person named herein, that
this information is suitable for any general or particular use or of freedom from infringement
of any patent or patents. Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising
from such use.
Caution must be exercised when relying upon specifications and codes developed by
others and incorporated by reference herein since such material may be modified or amended
from time to time subsequent to the printing of this document. The Structural Steel
Educational Council or the author bears no responsibility for such material other than to refer
to it and incorporate it by reference at the time of the initial publication of this document.
2
Seismic Detailing of Gusset Plates for
Special Concentrically Braced Frames
By:
ABOLHASSAN ASTANEH-ASL, Ph. D., P.E., Professor

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley
MICHAEL L. COCHRAN , S.E., Vice President

Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc., Consulting Structural Engineers, Los Angles
RAFAEL SABELLI, S.E., Principal, Director of Technical Development, DASSE Design Inc., Structural
Engineers, San Francisco, Oakland
_____________________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS / Page 2
DISCLAIMER/ Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS / Page 3
NOTATIONS / Page 4
CHAPTER 1. CURRENT SEISMIC CODE REQUIREMENT OF “2t” IN GUSSET

PLATES / Page 5
CHAPTER 2. SEISMIC DETAILING OF GUSSET PLATES/ Page 8
CHAPTER 3. SUGGESTED “PREFERRED” GUSSET PLATE DETAILS FOR

SCBF’s/ Page 14
REFERENCES / Page 21
APPENDIX: OTHER GUSSET PLATE DETAILS FOR SCBFS/ Page 23
ABOUT THE AUTHORS / Page 26
LIST OF PUBLISHED STEEL TIPS REPORTS / Page 27
PARTICIPATING MEMBERS OF THE SSEC/ Back Cover
3
_________________________________________________________________________
Notations
_________________________________________________________________________
A = Dimension of vertical side of gusset plate, see Figure 2.3

B = Dimension of horizontal side of gusset plate, see Figure 2.3
Ag = Cross sectional area of bracing member
Fy = Specified minimum yield stress of bracing member material
Fypl = Specified minimum yield stress of gusset plate material
L1 = Side dimension of gusset plate, (in Chapter 2)
Lb = Length of bracing member on the gusset plate, (see Figure 2.1( c).)
Lgph = Length of gusset plate beyond the end of bracing to yield and develop plastic hinge,
LW = Length of weld connecting bracing member to gusset plate
Mp = Plastic moment capacity of bracing member with respect to its governing axis of
buckling equal to FyZba
P = A parameter defined by Equation 2.11 , (see Page 10)
Q = A parameter defined by Equation 2.11 , (see Page 10)
Ry = Ratio of the expected yield stress to the specified minimum yield stress, Fy . Ry values
for various steel are given in Table I-6-1 of the AISC Seismic Provisions,
(AISC, 2005c).
Ry Fy = Expected yield stress of bracing member.
Tr = Maximum required tensile strength for connection design given in Section 13 of the
AISC Seismic Provisions, (AISC, 2005c) as lesser of the followings:
a. The expected yield strength , in tension, of the bracing member , determined as Ry
FyAg (LRFD) and Ry FyAg/1.5 (ASD), as appropriate
b. The maximum load effect, indicated by analysis that can be transferred to the brace
by the system.
Wpl = Width of gusset plate at end of brace (measured perpendicular to brace axis)
Zba = Plastic section modulus of cross section of bracing member with respect to governing
axis of buckling.
a = Distance from the face of bracing to edge of the gusset plate, (shown in Figure 2.1).
b = Width of bracing member on the gusset plate, (shown in Figure 2.1).
c = Depth of column section, (shown in Figure 2.1).
d = Depth of beam section, (shown in Figure 2.1).
γ
t = Thickness of gusset plate
θ
= Angle of gusset edge to brace axis, (shown in Figure 2.1).
φy
= Angle between axis of bracing and axis of horizontal beam, (shown in Figure 2.1).
= Resistance factor for yielding of gross area in LRFD= 0.90
4
1. CURRENT SEISMIC
CODE REQUIREMENT
OF “2t” IN GUSSET
PLATES Photo: Astaneh-Asl, Goel and
Hanson (1982)
1.1. Introduction
Currently, seismic design codes, such as the AISC Seismic Provisions (AISC, 2005c)
have provisions regarding design of braced frame gusset plates in seismic regions. Figure 1.1
shows excerpts from the AISC Seismic Provisions (AISC 2005c) which are on “2t”. The “User
Note” in Figure 1.1 refers to “line of restraint” and “2t offset” as shown in the sketch in Figure
1.1. It should be mentioned that the excerpts in Figure 1.1 are for information only and for actual
design, the AISC Seismic Provisions should be used. According to the Section 13.3b of the
Seismic Provisions, (see Fig. 1.1), the bracing connection should have a bending strength equal
to or greater than 1.1RyMp in Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) method and
2t
(Hinge Zone)
Line of
Restraint
Figure 1.1. Excerpts from the AISC Seismic Provisions (AISC, 2005c)
Relevant to the “2t” Requirement
5
(1.1/1.5)RyMp in Allowable Stress Design (ASD) method where Ry is in Table I-6-1 of the AISC
Seismic Provisions (AISC, 2005c) and Mp is the plastic moment capacity of the bracing member
with respect to governing buckling axis. This provision can be satisfied easily for a double gusset
plate connection, such as those shown in Figure 1.2 for a case of bolted gusset connection with
bracing members being wide flange sections. For hollow steel sections (HSS), similar gusset
plate connections can be used but the HSS section needs to be field-welded to the gusset plates.
For in-plane buckling, Figure 1.2(a), and out-of-plane buckling, Figure 1.2(b) of the
bracing member, the relatively large in-plane and out-of-plane strength and stiffness of the
double gussets will force yielding into the member with gusset plates remaining essentially
elastic. Double gusset plate connections have been used for more than 100 years and continue to
be used frequently in concentrically braced frames of bridge towers, as shown in Figure 1.3, as
well as in various trusses in buildings and bridges.
Buckling Causes
Plastic Hinge in the
Member with Buckling
Gusset Plate Causes Plastic
Remaining Hinge in the
Essentially Elastic Member with
Gusset Plate
Remaining
Top and Bottom Essentially
Edges of Gusset Elastic
Can be Horizontal
as Well.
(a) In-Plane Buckling of Member (b) Out-of-Plane Buckling of Member
Figure 1.2. Double Gusset Plate Connections
Figure 1.3. Double Gusset Plate Connections of Carquinez Bridge

Braced Frame Towers
For single gusset plate connections the selection of brace member type (Wide Flange,
Pipe, Rectangular HSS, Double Angles, etc) and brace member orientation (i.e. strong axis of
cross section being in or out of the plane of the frame) will influence the direction of brace
member buckling. If the critical buckling axis of the brace member is perpendicular to the plane
of the frame, the brace member will buckle in the plane of the frame, Figure 1.4(a). In this case,
the plastic moment capacity of the gusset plate can easily be greater than the above-mentioned
6
required values of 1.1RyMp in LRFD and (1.1/1.5) RyMp in ASD. However, if the critical
buckling axis of the selected brace member lies in the plane of the frame, the brace member will
buckle out of the plane of the frame, Figure 1.4(b). This case is the most common case in braced
frame design today instead of the exception. When the brace buckles out of plane of the frame,
its end rotations force the gusset plate to bend out-of-plane. In almost all such cases, the bending
capacity of the single gusset plate will not be sufficient to satisfy the above requirement. For
these cases, the “Exception:” below the Section 13.3b in Figure 1.1 can be used. The
“Exception” stated in Section 13.3b and the “User Note” below it in Figure 1.1) is based on the
tests and recommendations of Astaneh-Asl, Goel and Hanson (1982, 1983 and 1985) who
studied seismic behavior of the gusset plates as part of a larger research program on
concentrically braced frames, and recommended the use of a minimum “2t” hinge-zone length of
the gusset plate beyond the end of the bracing member to accommodate end rotations of the
buckled brace member where “t” is the thickness of the gusset plate.
Lpgh ≥ 2t
Plastic Hinge in
Plastic Hinge in the Gusset
the Double Plate
Angle Brace
Member
t= Thickness of gusset plate
(a) In-Plane Buckling of Member (b) Out-of-Plane Buckling of Member
Figure 1.4. Single Gusset Plate Connections
In the research program by Astaneh-Asl, Goel and Hanson (1982), a total of eighteen
specimens were tested which included specimens of gusset plates with zero, t, 2t and 4t hinge-
zone length. It was observed that behavior of gusset plates with 2t and 4t was very ductile and
desirable and easily qualifying these gusset plates to be part of a Special Concentrically Braced
frame. Therefore, a minimum of 2t hinge zone length of gusset plate was recommended by
Astaneh-Asl, Goel and Hanson (1982). A maximum hinge-zone length equal to 4t was also
suggested by the researchers for hinge-zone length of gusset plates in single gusset connections
buckling out-of-plane of the gusset plate. While the ability to form a hinge is not affected by
increasing hinge length, designers should be mindful of the overall length of the gusset plate and
should verify that buckling of the gusset plate will not occur prior to buckling of the bracing
member. Also attention should be paid to the possibility of “rigid body buckling” of the brace
member if the length of hinge zone in gusset plate is longer than 4t. A Steel TIPS report on
gusset plates by Astaneh-Asl (1998) provides more information on various aspects of seismic
behavior and design of gusset plates including the “2t” hinge-zone length.
7
2. SEISMIC L5 L5
DETAILING OF L6
L1
GUSSET PLATES A L2
B L3
2.1. Introduction
This chapter provides equations that can easily be used for layout and detailing of gusset plates at
the beam /column /brace connection. The information is specifically for gusset plates in Special
Concentrically Braced Frames where a minimum of “2t” hinge-zone length is required beyond
the end of the bracing member. Figure 2.1 shows a typical gusset plate of a concentrically braced
terms of geometry of the connection (i.e. in terms of a, b, c, d, t, Lw and angles θ and γ in Figure
frame. The aim of this chapter is to define dimensions A, B, L1 through L6 of the gusset plate in
2.1). The equations that are presented are applicable to values of θ, the angle between the brace
and the beam, from 30 degrees to 60 degrees. Brace angles smaller than 30 degrees and larger
than 60 degrees are not economical and can result in relatively large gusset plates. The length
“Lb” for the brace lap onto the gusset plate when welding is used should be one to two inches
longer than the required minimum weld length as shown in Figure 2.1(c). This allows for
beginning and termination of the weld away from the end of the brace member and end of the
gusset plate. It also allows for additional welding should there be a field problem.
c L5 L4
Edge a
Stiffener L5 L4
γ
b
a
L6 L1 L6 L1
t
θ
A Lw
L2
Lpgh ≥2t min. A L2 Lw
B L3
d B L3 Lb
W.P.
Note: Edge Stiffener Supplied if Required.
(a) (b) (c)
Figure 2.1. Typical Gusset Plate Detail with Eight Edge Dimensions
Shown as A, B and L1 through L6
8
2.2. Lay-out of Geometry of the Gusset Plate
Figure 2.1 shows a typical gusset plate with a minimum distance of “2t” between the end
of the bracing member and the horizontal beam is θ and the angle between the two edges of
of the bracing member and the re-entrant corner of the gusset. The angle between the centerlines
gusset plate and centerline of the bracing is γ. There are eight edge dimensions for a gusset plate
as shown in Figure 2.1. These dimensions, given by following equations, can be used for easy
lay-out of the gusset plate.
2.2.a. Computing gusset width
A gusset plate symmetric about brace axis should be used. The required width depends on the
thickness and yield stress of the plate selected. Note that if too thin a plate is selected, the
required width may be larger than the Whitmore width, and the area of the plate outside
Whitmore’s width cannot be used to resist forces. It is also possible that thin plates will prove
insufficient with respect to plate buckling for compression forces. The width of plate at the cross
section along the end of the weld lines is given by:
Wpl = Tr / (φy Fypl t) (2.1)

Where
Tr = Maximum required tensile strength for connection design given in Section 13 of the
AISC Seismic Provisions, (AISC, 2005c) as lesser of the followings:
a. The expected yield strength , in tension, of the bracing member , determined as Ry
FyAg (LRFD) and Ry FyAg/1.5 (ASD), as appropriate
b. The maximum load effect, indicated by analysis that can be transferred to the brace
by the system.
Ry = Ratio of the expected yield stress to the specified minimum yield stress, Fy . Ry values
for various steel are given in Table I-6-1 of the AISC Seismic Provisions,
(AISC, 2005c).
Fy = Specified minimum yield stress of bracing member material
Ry Fy = Expected yield stress of bracing member
φy
Ag = Cross sectional area of bracing member
= Resistance factor for yielding of gross area in LRFD= 0.90
Fypl = Specified minimum yield stress of gusset plate material
t = Thickness of gusset plate
2.2.b. Calculating angle γ
From geometry of gusset plate, the angle γ can be calculated from:
sin(γ) = (Wpl /2 – b/2)/Lw (2.2)
γ
Where
= Angle of gusset edge to brace axis, (shown in Figure 2.1).
b = Width of bracing member on the gusset plate, (shown in Figure 2.1).
9
Lw = Length of weld connecting bracing member to gusset plate
Referring to Figure 2.1 the following relationships can be established among various
dimensions of gusset plate geometry:
L 1 = (2a + b)/cos θ
L 2 = (2t + L w )/cos( γ )
(2.3)
L 3 = (L w + 2t)cos(2 γ − θ)/cos(2 γ )
(2.4)
A = P+Q
(2.5)
L 4 = L 1 tan θ
(2.6)
L5 = L3 + A − L 4
(2.7)
L 6 = L 5 tan( θ − γ )
(2.8)
(2.9)
L 7 = L1 + L 2 − L 6 (2.10)
P = [a + b/2 + (2t + l w )tan(λ )]/cos(90 o − θ)

Where,
(2.11)
Q = (P + L 3 )(d/2)/(L1 + L 2 ) (2.12)
For definition of terms in above equations please see Notations on Page 4. Note that 2t
is a minimum gusset hinge-zone dimension from the end of the bracing to the closest re-entrant
corner of the gusset plate measured perpendicular to the axis of bracing member. To allow for
some brace fit up tolerance during field erection of the brace on the gusset plate, the designer
should consider a larger hinge-zone length for the gusset than the 2t such as Lgph=2t + ¾ inch ±
¼ inch for detailing and Lgph=2t + 1½ inch for design purposes. As long as the dimension of the
installed gusset plate buckling length does not become excessive, 4t at each gusset plate, the
gusset will provide adequate cyclic rotational ductility to accommodate the brace cyclic buckling
expected in Special Concentric Braced Frames. During field erection, the brace may not end up
centered on the gusset plates at each end of the brace. In this case, it may end up with a hinge-
zone length of (2t + ¼ inch) on one end and (2t + 1¼ inch) on the other end instead of (2t + ¾
inch) at each end. Gusset plate design should address accidentally created hinge-zone lengths
longer than intend in the design and shown on the structural drawings due to the brace not being
installed centered on the gusset plate at each end.
It should be mentioned that the above equations are valid ONLY if the horizontal edge
edge length of L8 (i.e. A ≥ B). If A < B , as shown in Figure 2.2, instead of the above
length of the gusset plate, as shown as L4 in Figure 2.1, is greater than or equal to the vertical
equations, the following equations should be used.
L 7 = [2a + b + (2t + L w )tan(γ )]/cosθ

L 6 = (2t + L w )cos(2γ − θ)/cos(γ )
(2.13)
L 5 = (2t + L w )/[sin(2γ − θ)cos(γ )

(2.14)
(2.15)
L 4 = (2a + b)/sin(θ) (2.16)
10
L1 = (2a + b)cos(θ)
L 2 = L 6 + L 7 − L1
(2.17)
L 3 = L 2 tan(θ − 2γ )
(2.18)
(2.19)
A = L3 + B + L5 (2.20)
L5 L4 L5 L4
c
a
b a
γ L1
L6 L1
L6
Lw
Lgph L2
A A L2
t Edge
Stiffener
BL4 L3 L3 B L3
d
W.P.
Note: Edge Stiffener Supplied if Required.
Figure 2.2. Typical Gusset Plate Detail with Steep Angle with Eight Edge
Dimensions Shown as A, B and L1 through L6
When edge plates are provided to stiffen the free edge of the gusset plate, they should
terminate outside the gusset plate hinge zone. This offset prevents the edge stiffener plate welds
to the gusset plate from occurring in the area of gusset plate rotation in the plastic hinge zone.
Wrapping around of the weld on the edge of the gusset plate should be avoided, since it can
cause an undercut in the edge of the gusset plate and possibly lead to fracture initiation of the
plate at the hinge-zone area where plate bending and rotation is expected to occur.
2.3. Gusset Plate Detailing
Once the gusset plate design is completed, the information needs to be shown on the structural
drawings. The gusset plate design is based upon specific dimensions (bay width, floor to floor
height, beam and column depths), and any changes in these dimensions will change the gusset
plate dimensions, particularly those that depend on the location of the hinge zone. There may be
minor changes in the brace frame bay width dimensions or beam sizes after completion of the
braced frame design.
Another area where gusset design may require adjustment is at roof members. Where the
gusset design has been based upon a level beam, a sloped beam will require a somewhat different
gusset. The information shown on the plans should allow the steel detailer/fabricator some
tolerance on the design of the gusset plate to address minor changes. If the engineers show all of
11
the required gusset plate dimensions, some of the dimensions are likely to require adjustment
when the detailer checks the design, so they may submit the shop drawings asking which
requirements take precedence. Figures 2.3 below shows suggested information and a “Fabricator
Notes” for gusset plates to be on the structural drawings.
Fabricator Notes for Gusset Plate

Lgph
Lw Provided Information:
Brace B = Given
Lgph = 2t + ¾ inch
γ
1” typ. Lw = Required Weld length along brace
γ = To be determined
Gusset Plate, A = To be determined
Thickness = t
A γ Hinge zone 90 degrees
to slope of brace Fabricator Instructions:
Determine “A” dimension based upon plate
Verify angle γ ≤ 30o (*).

Beam information shown.
Verify extension of yield line does not intersect

the plate dimension “A”.
Notify the structural engineer if any of the above
B
“Given” items cannot be met.
Detailer may adjust the “A” and “Lw” dimensions
Example Detail (+/- 1/8”), as detailed, in order to facilitate the
fabrication of the plate.
(* Denotes actual allowance shall be based upon
engineer’s discretion and design tolerances.)
STRUCTURAL DRAWING S5.1
Figure 2.3. Example of “Fabricator Note Detail” to be Placed on Drawings

(brace to column)
gusset (angle γ) is selected as described in Section 2.2.b. LW is the required weld length (or
The hinge zone is specified to be a range as discussed earlier. The slope of the side of the
overlap of brace onto gusset whichever is larger). The fabricator can then determine lengths "A"
and "B".
Notes as "Fabricator Instructions" need to be provided as shown in the Figure 2.3 giving
direction to the fabricator on required tolerances and what to check. A summary table can be
established on the structural drawings for the various dimensions of the gusset plate.
One important item to require of the steel shop drawings is for the gusset plates to be
drawn to scale for each location so they can be checked by the engineer to see that they comply
with the original design intent.
12
The last issue is caused when the engineer uses a generic 45 degree picture to fit all of
the gusset information. When the fabricator lays the gussets out and send them for approval it is
not unusual for the Architect to find that the gussets are encroaching into door or corridor areas.
This has caused considerable problems on previous contracts. It is suggested that to avoid this
problem, gusset plates be drawn to scale. Similar difficulty can arise when the length of vertical
edge of gusset plate is so large that it crosses the column field splice and the fabricator then has
to reconfigure or rat hole the gusset. This of course makes the length A to grow even more and
can be a major issue since at this time quite often the fabricator has purchased the column
material prior to this problem coming to light.
13
3. S UGGESTED
“PREFERRED”
GUSSET PLATE
DETAILS FOR SCBF’s
3.1. Introduction
This chapter provides a number of “suggested preferred details” for gusset plate
connections of Special Concentrically Braced Frames. As discussed in Chapter 2,
whenever in single gusset plate connections, the bracing member in a SCBF buckles out
of plane of the gusset, a minimum distance of Lgph equal to “2t” is required in the gusset
plate to provide room for formation of a plastic hinge in the gusset. The suggested
details are not meant to be the only appropriate detail nor the most economical. The
economy of design and construction depends on many variables, many of them beyond
the scope of this document and the qualifications of the authors. These “suggested
connections” are developed in consultation with structural engineers , fabricators and
erectors and are suggested only as samples of the connection details that can satisfy the
current AISC Seismic Provisions (AISC, 2005c) and can be economical with current
fabrication and erection procedures practiced by the fabricators who were consulted
which . Four major steel fabrication companies, two from the west coast, one from the
mid-west and one from the east coast were contacted for this report and provided very
valuable information to authors on gusset detailing which we have used in developing
the suggested ‘Preferred Details” for gusset plates for SCBFs presented in this chapter.
3.2. “Preferred Details” for Gusset Plates of “In-Plane” Buckling Braces
When a bracing member buckles in the plane of the braced frame, , which is the same as
plane of the gusset plate, due to relatively large in-plane stiffness and strength of gusset
plate, it remain almost elastic and plastic hinges form in the member itself. In this case,
there is no need to provide the “2t” distance in the gusset plate. Figures 3.1 and 3.2
show two “Preferred Details” for gusset plates of in-plane buckling bracings for a wide
flange bracing with and a double –angle bracing , with short legs of angles back-to-back.
In both details of Figures 3.1 and 3.2, the bracing member buckles in-plane of the
frame, which is the same as plane of the gusset plate, thus, no need to provide the “2t”
hinge zone.
14
3.3. “Preferred Details” for Gusset Plates of “Out-of-Plane” Buckling Braces
When a bracing member buckles out of plane of the frame, plastic hinges form in the
gusset plate. In this case, there is a need to consider providing the “2t” hinge zone in the
gusset plate. Figures 3.3 through 3.7 show “Preferred Details” for gusset plates of out-
of-plane buckling bracings for wide flange, double-channels, double-angles and
rectangular or round HSS bracings. In details shown in Figures 3.3 through 3.7, the
bracing members buckle out-of-plane.
Appendix to this report shows additional gusset plate details for out-of-plane
buckling braces. The details given in the Appendix are modified versions of some of the
gusset plate details currently used in Special Concentrically Braced Frames. The
modifications are made to enhance the performance cyclic performance of these
connections to perform in a more ductile manner as part of a Special Concentrically
Braced Frame. In the opinion of the authors, the details suggested in this chapter as
“Suggested Preferred Details should be used whenever possible and are preferred details
over the details provided in the Appendix.
3.4. General Notes for Details Shown in Figures 3.1-3.7 and in the Appendix
Following notes are applicable to details of gusset plates shown in Figures 3.1 through
3.6 and those shown in Appendix Figures A.1 through A.6.
1. Gusset material should have Fy=50 ksi or less. Buckling of free edges of gusset plates
should be investigated and edge stiffeners provided if needed (see Steel TIPS by A.
Astaneh-Asl (1998) or later edition. The possibility of block shear failure at the
connection of brace to gusset, especially for bolted connections should be investigated.
2. Bolts are slip-critical bolts as per AISC Seismic Provisions (AISC, 2005c). Note that the
AISC Seismic Provisions also place limitations on bolt holes.
3. Welds connecting the gusset plate to column flange should be designed to develop Ry
times the shear yield strength as well as tensile yield strength of the gusset plate.
4. Reinforcement is typically required for bolted SCBF brace connections to prevent net
section fracture from becoming the governing failure mode for the bracing member
which is not acceptable for SCBFs.
5. The Lgph is the length of gusset plate plastic hinge zone when the member buckles out of
plane of the gusset. . The value of Lgph should satisfy: 2tg ≤ Lgph ≤ 4t. A length of 2t +3/4
inch is recommended as a practical value. . This length is needed only in gusset plates
where the member buckles out of plane of the gusset, bending it and forming a plastic
hinge in this Lgph region. If the brace buckles in the plane of the gusset, there is no need
for “2t” hinge zone.
15
6. At least one erection should be provided at each end of the bracing members. Erection
bolts should also be provided on the single plate at approximately 6” center-to-center
spacing.
7. The width of slotted plate for the top flange is preferred to be less than the width of
flange and for the bottom flange greater than the width of flange of the beam to allow for
down welding. However, plates with the same width for top and bottom flange are also
acceptable.
8. Lap plates and single plates on the beams should be designed for combined axial and
shear forces and bending moments established using a rational analysis method satisfying
equilibrium and compatibility of deformations.
9. Single plate should be designed for combined axial and shear forces and bending
moments established using a rational gusset plate analysis method satisfying equilibrium
and compatibility of deformations.
10. If the thicknesses of gusset and beam web differ for more than 3/16 inch, welded shim
plates need to be provided either on the beam web or on the gusset plate to make the
thicknesses of the web and gusset plate to be the same. If the difference of thicknesses is
less than 3/16, the gusset plate can be slightly eccentric w.r.t. beam web to make the front
surfaces of gusset and the beam web to be in the same plane.
11. The single plate extending from the column web should be designed to resist
corresponding forces and moments. The procedure for design of “Extended Shear Tabs”
given in Steel TIPS Report by Astaneh-Asl (2005) or other strength design method that is
based on hierarchy of failure modes ensuring yielding to be the governing failure mode
can be used for this purpose.
3.5. Suggested “Preferred” Details for Gusset Plates of Special Concentrically

Braced Frames
Following Figures 3.1 through 3.6 show gusset plate details suggested by the authors as
“Preferred Details” details for Special Concentrically Braced Frames. The details are developed
using components from design done by structural engineers or fabricators as indicated in the
“Credit’ note below the details. The details are expected to perform in a sufficiently ductile
manner under cyclic loading to qualify them to be part of Special Concentrically Braced Frames.
In addition, in developing these details, we have benefited from the review comments and input
by the engineers from four major steel fabrication and erection companies, two from the west
coast, one from mid-west and one from the east coast. As a result, we believe these connections
can result in ductile , yet economical steel structures that are easy to design, fabricate and erect.
16
Wide Flange Buckles In-Plane of Gusset
Continuity Plates if Needed Plates Shop-Welded to Flanges
Gusset Plate, (see Note 1)
Cover Plate Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom, (see Note 7)
Floor
Collector Beam
Bolts (see Note 2)

Bolts (see Note 2) Lap Plate (See Note 8)
Slotted Plates
(see Note 3) (Web Plate is Optional)
Copyright © 2006 Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli. All rights reserved.
Figure 3.1. “Suggested Preferred Detail” for Gusset Plates of “in-Plane” Buckling
Wide Flange Bracing Members
(Credit: The above connection was developed by using designs by the Cives Steel Company
and Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc., Consulting Structural Engineers, Los Angeles)
Double Angles, Short Legs Back-to-Back

(Brace buckles in-plane) Reinforcing Plate (see Note 4)
Continuity Plates if Needed
Bolts (see Note 2)
Bolted
Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom
Cover Plate
(see Note 7)
Floor
Collector Beam
Bolts (see Note 2) Bolts (see Note 2)
Lap Plate (See Note 8)

Welded
(see Note 3)
Erection Bolt (See Note 6)
Figure 3.2. Suggested Detail for Gusset Plates of in-Plane Buckling Double Angles
17
HSS or Pipe Bracing Reinforcing Plates, (See Note 4)
Continuity Plates if Needed Gusset Plate, (see Note 1)
1” Thick, Compressible Material
Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom, (see Note 7)

Cover Plate
Floor
Collector Beam

(see Note 3)
“Lgph”, (see Note 5)
Erection Bolt (See Note 6)
Figure 3.3. “Suggested Preferred Detail” for Gusset Plates of HHS Bracing Members
(Credit: The above connection was developed by the Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc.,
Consulting Structural Engineers, Los Angles and presented herein with permission)
HSS or Pipe Bracing

Reinforcing Plates, (See Note 4)

Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom, (see Note 7)
Cover Plate
Floor
Collector Beam

Extended Shear Lap Plate (See Note 8)
Tab, (See Note 11)
Erection Bolts Lgph , (see Note 5)

(see Note 3) (see Note 7)
Figure 3.4. “Suggested Preferred Detail” for Gusset Plates of HSS Bracing Members
(Credit: The above connection was developed by the Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc.,
Consulting Structural Engineers, Los Angles)
18
Double Channels
Flange Cover Plates if Needed
Web Reinforcing Plate, (See Note 4)

Cover Plate Double-Channel Beam
Floor
Collector Beam
Bolts (see Note 2)
Reinforcing Plate (See Note 4)

Bolts (see Note 2)
“Lgph”, (see Note 5
(see Note 3)
Figure 3.5. “Suggested Preferred Detail” for Gusset Plates of Double Channel Bracing Members
(Credit: The above connection was developed by A. Astaneh-Asl based on a detail designed by
W&W Steel Company, (www.wwsteel.com) ),
Continuity Plates if Needed

Cover Plate
Floor
Collector Beam
Do not weld this edge
Bolts (see Note 2) Two Knife Plates

Thickness= tp
(See sketch to the right)
(see Note 3)
“Lgph”= 4tp to 6tp
Figure 3.6. “Suggested Preferred Detail” for Gusset Plates of HSS Bracing Members
(Credit: The above connection was developed by A. Astaneh-Asl based on a bridge connection detail
designed by Bogdonov Pao Associates Ltd. , Structural Engineers (www.bogdonovpao.com)
19
Bolts, (see Note 2) Wide Flange Bracing

Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom
Cover Plate (see Note 7)
Floor
Collector Beam

(see Note 3)
Figure 3.7. “Suggested Preferred Detail” for Gusset Plates of Wide Flange Bracing Members
(Credit: The above connection was developed by combining two designs done by
Brian L. Cochran Associates, Inc. and the Cives Steel Company (www.cives.com) )
20
REFERENCES .
AISC, (2005a) “Specifications for Structural Steel Buildings”, American Institute of Steel
Construction, Chicago, IL. (free download at www.aisc.org).
AISC, (2005b) “Manual of Steel Construction, 13 Ed.”, American Institute of Steel Construction,
Chicago, IL. (can be purchased at www.aisc.org).
AISC, (2005c) “Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings”, American Institute of Steel
Construction, Chicago, IL. (Free download at www.aisc.org).
AISC, (2005d) “Seismic Design Manual”, American Institute of Steel Construction, Chicago, IL. (can be
purchased at www.aisc.org).
Astaneh-Asl, A., (1998), “Seismic Behavior and Design of Gusset Plates”, Steel Technical Information
and Product Services (Steel TIPS) report, Structural Steel Educational Council, Moraga, CA.
(www.steeltips.org).
Astaneh-Asl, A., (2006), “An Update on Design of Shear Tab Connections for Gravity and Seismic
Loads”, Steel Technical Information and Product Services (Steel TIPS) report, Structural Steel
Educational Council, Moraga, CA. (www.steeltips.org).
Astaneh-Asl, A., Goel, S. C., and Hanson, R. D. (1982). “Cyclic Behavior of Double Angle Bracing
Members with End Gusset Plates", Report no. UMEE 82R7, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Astaneh-Asl, A., Goel, S.C., Hanson, R.D., (1983). "Cyclic Behavior of Double Angle Bracing Members
with Bolted Connections." Engineering Journal, AISC, Chicago.
Astaneh-Asl, A., and Goel, S. C. (1984). "Cyclic In-plane Buckling of Double Angle Bracing." J. of
Structural Engineering, Am. Society of Civil Engineers. (ASCE), Vol. 110, No. 9, pp. 2036-2055.
Astaneh-Asl, A., Goel, S. C., and Hanson, R. D. (1985). "Cyclic Out-of-Plane Buckling of Double Angle
Bracing." J. of Structural Engineering., ASCE, Vol. 111, No. 5, p.1135-1153.
Berrens, D. and Morrison, M. (2006), “Gusset Plate Details and Commentary”, Personal Communication
with the Authors, PDM Strocal Inc.
Cochran, M.L. and Honeck, W. (2004), “Special Concentric Braced Frames”, Steel Technical
Information and Product Services (Steel TIPS) report, Structural Steel Educational Council, Moraga,
CA. (www.steeltips.org).
Richardson, S. and Lindley, W. (2006), “Gusset Plate Details”, Personal Communication with the
Authors, W&W Steel Company, Oklahoma City.
Sabelli, R. (2003) “Design of a Special Concentrically Braced Frame,” in AISC Seismic Design Manual,
Vol. III. Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC), Sacramento, CA.
Sabelli, R. (2005-6) “Seismic Braced Frames: Design Concepts and Connections” (Seminar notes),
American Institute of Steel Construction, Chicago, IL.
©2001 by Cives Engineering Corporation. Roswell, Georgia.

Thornton, W.A., (2001). “Seismic Design of Connections in Concentrically Braced Frames”, Copyright
Thornton, W.A., (2006), “Gusset Plate Details and Commentary”, Personal Communication with the
Authors, Cives Steel Company.
21
Winens, J. (2006), “Detailing Seismic Connections, Fabricator/Erector’s Prospective”, Presentation ,
North American Steel Construction Conference, San Antonio, TX, Organized by the American Institute
of Steel Construction, Chicago, IL.
22
Appendix
Other Gusset Plate Details for SCBFs
The gusset plate connections below, are refined versions of some of the connections currently in
use. We have attempted to introduce the “2t” distance in these connections and detail them such
that high level of ductility , consistent with “Special Concentric Braced Frames” is expected.
The “suggested preferred details” of gusset plate connections shown in Figures 3.1 through 3.5
of Chapter 3 are preferred to the connections given in this Appendix.
Single Plate,
(see Note 9) 2L or 2C Bracing
Erection
Bolts (see
Note 6)
Reinforcing Plate
Gusset Plate,
2L or 2C
(see Note 1)
Bracing
Bolts, (see Note 2 )
Welded Shim Plate If Needed (see Note 10)

Welds (see Note 3)
(a) Field-Bolted (b) Field-Welded
Figure A.1. Gusset Plate Connection of Out-of-Plane Buckling

Double Angle or Double Channel Bracing Members
23
Single Plate,
(see Note 9) HSS or Pipe
Bracing
Gusset Plate, Erection Bolts,

(see Note 1) (see Note 6 )
Single Plate,
“Lgph”, (see Note 5) (see Note 11)
Shim Plate (see Note 10 )
Erection Bolts, (see Note 2 )
Welds (see Note 5 )
(a) Connection to Column Flange (b) Connection to Column Web
Figure A.2. All-Welded, Gusset Plate Connection of HSS Bracing Member
Single Plate, (see Note 9)

Wide Flange
Slotted Plate
(see Note 7)
Gusset Plate,
(see Note 1)
“Lgph”,(see Note 5)
Shim Plate (see Note 10 ) Single Plate, (see Note 11)

Welds (see Note 3 )
Connection to the Column Flange Connection to the Column Web
Figure A.3. All-welded Gusset Plate Connection of Wide Flange Bracing Member
24
Single Plate, (see Note 1 below)
“Lgph”, Wide Flange
(see
Note 5)
Erection Bolts,
(see Note 6 )
CJP
Gusset Plate,
(see Note 1)
Shim Plate (see Note 10)

Bolts, (see Note 2)
Welds (see Note 3 )
Figure A.4. All-welded Gusset Plate Connection of Wide Flange Bracing Member
“Lgph”, ¼” thick
(see Note 5) Finger Shim
Plates
WF Bracing
Bolts,
(see Note 2 )
Shim Plate (see Note 10 )

Welds (see Note 3 )
Figure A.4. Shop-welded, field-bolted Gusset Plate Connection of Wide Flange Bracing
Member
25
About the Authors:
Photo: Cyrus Astaneh
Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Ph.D., Michael Cochran, S.E. is vice Rafael Sabelli, S.E. is a principal of
P.E., is a professor of structural president of Brian L Cochran DASSE Design in San Francisco.
engineering and a faculty Associates Inc. in Los Angeles He is a member of the Task
researcher at the new Center for California. He is a member of Committee on the Seismic
Catastrophic Risk Management Building Seismic Safety Council Provisions for Structural Steel
(www.ccrm.berkeley.edu) at the (BSSC) TS-6 and the AISC Buildings of the American Institute
University of California, Connection Prequalification of Steel Construction (AISC), and is
Berkeley. He is the winner of Review Panel (CPRP). He is a co- the author of numerous publications
the 1998 AISC, T.R. Higgins author on the Steel TIPS for on concentrically braced frames
Lectureship Award. Special Concentrically Braced including analytical studies and
Since 1968, he has been Frames (SCBF’s) and a past design guides on buckling-
involved in design, teaching and speaker on the design of Special restrained braced frames. He was
research on steel and composite and Ordinary Concentrically the 2000 NEHRP Professional
structures of building and Braced Frames (SCBF’s and Fellow in Earthquake Hazard
bridges. In the aftermath of the OCBF’s) for the American Reduction, and is the Past Chair of
September 11, 2001 tragic Institute of Steel Construction the Seismology Committee of the
terrorist attacks he conducted a (AISC) and the Structural Structural Engineers Association of
reconnaissance and perishable engineers Association of Southern California (SEAOC).
data collection project in New California (SEAOSC). He has
York, funded by the National been involved in the design of
Science Foundation, on the both new buildings and seismic
collapsed towers of the World retrofit of existing buildings
Trade Center and in 2002 typically in the one to 10 story
testified on his findings before ranges.
the Committee on Science of the
U.S. House of Representative.
He can be reached at: He can be reached at: He can be reached at:

781 Davis Hall, Univ. of Calif. Brian L Cochran Associates Inc. DASSE Design Inc.
Berkeley, CA 94720-1710. Consulting Structural Engineers 33 New Montgomery, Suite 850
Phone and Fax: (925) 946-0903 2036 Armacost Avenue San Francisco, California 94105
E-mail: Astaneh@ce.berkeley.edu Los Angeles, CA 90025
Web: Phone: 310-207-6638
www.ce.berkeley.edu/~astaneh E-mail: MLCSE@aol.com
26
Steel Technical Information and Product Services Report (Steel TIPS) reports available at
www.steeltips.org
July 06: Seismic Detailing of Gusset Plates for Special Concentrically Braced Frames, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl,
Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli
Sept. 05:Notes on Design of Double-Angle and Tee Shear Connections For Gravity and Seismic Loads, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl
June 05: Design of Shear Tabs for Gravity and Seismic Loads, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl
April 05: Limiting Net Section Fracture in Slotted Tube Braces, by Frances Yang and Stephen Mahin
July 04: Buckling Restrained Braced Frames, by Walterio A. Lopez and Rafael Sabelli.
May 04: Special Concentric Braced Frames, by Michael Cochran and William Honeck.
Dec. 03: Steel Construction in the New Millennium, by Patrick M. Hassett.
Aug 02: Cost Consideration for Steel Moment Frame Connections, by Patrick M. Hassett and James J. Putkey.
June 02: Use of Deep Columns in Special Steel Moment Frames, by Jay Shen, Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl and David McCallen.
May 02: Seismic Behavior and Design of Composite Steel Plate Shear Walls, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl.
Sept. 01: Notes on Design of Steel Parking Structures Including Seismic Effects, by Lanny J. Flynn, and Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl.
Jun 01: Metal Roof Construction on Large Warehouses or Distribution Centers, by John L. Mayo.
Mar.0 1: Large Seismic Steel Beam-to-Column Connections, by Egor P. Popov and Shakhzod M.Takhirov.
Jan 01: Seismic Behavior and Design of Steel Shear Walls, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl.
Oct. 99: Welded Moment Frame Connections with Minimal Residual Stress, by Alvaro L. Collin and James J. Putkey.
Aug. 99: Design of Reduced Beam Section (RBS) Moment Frame Connections, by Kevin S. Moore, James O. Malley and
Michael D. Engelhardt.
Jul. 99: Practical Design and Detailing of Steel Column Base Plates, by William C. Honeck & Derek Westphal.
Dec. 98: Seismic Behavior and Design of Gusset Plates, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl.
Mar. 98: Compatibility of Mixed Weld Metal, by Alvaro L. Collin & James J. Putkey.
Aug. 97: Dynamic Tension Tests of Simulated Moment Resisting Frame Weld Joints, by Eric J. Kaufmann.
Apr. 97: Seismic Design of Steel Column-Tree Moment-Resisting Frames, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl.
Jan. 97: Reference Guide for Structural Steel Welding Practices.
Dec. 96: Seismic Design Practice for Eccentrically Braced Frames (Based on the 1994 UBC), by Roy Becker & Michael Ishler.
Nov. 95: Seismic Design of Special Concentrically Braced Steel Frames, by Roy Becker.
Jul. 95: Seismic Design of Bolted Steel Moment-Resisting Frames, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl.
Apr. 95: Structural Details to Increase Ductility of Connections, by Omer W. Blodgett.
Dec. 94: Use of Steel in the Seismic Retrofit of Historic Oakland City Hall, by William Honeck & Mason Walters.
Dec 93: Common Steel Erection Problems and Suggested Solutions, by James J. Putkey.
Oct. 93: Heavy Structural Shapes in Tension Applications.
Mar. 93: Structural Steel Construction in the '90s, by F. Robert Preece & Alvaro L. Collin.
Aug. 92: Value Engineering and Steel Economy, by David T. Ricker.
Oct. 92: Economical Use of Cambered Steel Beams.
Jul. 92: Slotted Bolted Connection Energy Dissipaters, by Carl E. Grigorian, Tzong-Shuoh Yang & Egor P. Popov.
Jun. 92: What Design Engineers Can Do to Reduce Fabrication Costs, by Bill Dyker & John D. Smith.
Apr. 92: Designing for Cost Efficient Fabrication, by W.A. Thornton.
Jan. 92: Steel Deck Construction.
Sep. 91: Design Practice to Prevent Floor Vibrations, by Farzad Naeim.
Mar. 91: LRFD-Composite Beam Design with Metal Deck, by Ron Vogel.
Dec. 90: Design of Single Plate Shear Connections, by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Steven M. Call and Kurt M. McMullin.
Nov. 90: Design of Small Base Plates for Wide Flange Columns, by W.A. Thornton.
May 89: The Economies of LRFD in Composite Floor Beams, by Mark C. Zahn.
Jan. 87: Composite Beam Design with Metal Deck.
Feb. 86: UN Fire Protected Exposed Steel Parking Structures.
Sep. 85: Fireproofing Open-Web Joists & Girders.
Nov. 76: Steel High-Rise Building Fire.
The Steel TIPS are available at website: www.steeltips.org and can be downloaded for a nominal fee
for personal use courtesy of the California Field Iron Workers Administrative Trust.
27
STRUCTURAL STEEL EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL
P.O. Box 6190
Moraga, CA 94570
Tel. (925) 631-1313
Fax. (925) 631-1112
Fred Boettler, Administrator
Steel TIPS may be viewed and downloaded for a nominal fee at www.steeltips.org
Steel
Participating Members of SSEC

ABOLHASSAN ASTANEH-ASL, Ph.D., P.E.; UNIV. OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY
FRED BREISMEISTER, P.E.; STROCAL, INC.
MICHAEL L. COCHRAN, S.E.; BRIAN L. COCHRAN ASSOCIATES
RICH DENIO; FORELL/ELSESSER ENGINEERS, INC.
JEFFREY EANDI, P.E.; EANDI METAL WORKS, INC.
PATRICK M. HASSETT, S.E.: HASSETT ENGINEERING, INC.
JOHN KONECHNE, P.E.; CALIFORNIA ERECTORS, INC.
DERRICK LIND; LIFTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
WALTERIO LOPEZ; S.E.; RUTHERFORD/CHEKENE
BRETT MANNING, S.E.; THE HERRICK COPORATION
LARRY MCLEAN, MCLEAN STEEL, INC.
JAY MURPHY; MURPHY PACIFIC CORPORATION
RICHARD PERSONS; U.S. STEEL
JAMES J. PUTKEY, P.E.; CONSULTING CIVIL ENGINEER
Funding for this publication was provided by the California Field Iron Workers Administrative Trust.
28

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July 2006

Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Ph.D., P.E., Michael L. Cochran, S.E.

Rafael Sabelli, S.E.

Copyright © by Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli, 2006.

All rights reserved.

By Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Michael L. Cochran and Rafael Sabelli

First Printing, July 2006

Abolhassan Astaneh-Asl, Ph.D., P.E., Professor,

Michael L. Cochran, S.E., Vice President,

Rafael Sabelli, S.E., Principal, Director of Technical Development

ABOLHASSAN ASTANEH-ASL, Ph. D., P.E., Professor

MICHAEL L. COCHRAN , S.E., Vice President

TABLE OF CONTENTS / Page 3

CHAPTER 1. CURRENT SEISMIC CODE REQUIREMENT OF “2t” IN GUSSET

CHAPTER 2. SEISMIC DETAILING OF GUSSET PLATES/ Page 8

CHAPTER 3. SUGGESTED “PREFERRED” GUSSET PLATE DETAILS FOR

APPENDIX: OTHER GUSSET PLATE DETAILS FOR SCBFS/ Page 23

ABOUT THE AUTHORS / Page 26

LIST OF PUBLISHED STEEL TIPS REPORTS / Page 27

PARTICIPATING MEMBERS OF THE SSEC/ Back Cover

A = Dimension of vertical side of gusset plate, see Figure 2.3

(a) In-Plane Buckling of Member (b) Out-of-Plane Buckling of Member

Figure 1.2. Double Gusset Plate Connections

Figure 1.3. Double Gusset Plate Connections of Carquinez Bridge

t= Thickness of gusset plate

(a) In-Plane Buckling of Member (b) Out-of-Plane Buckling of Member

Figure 1.4. Single Gusset Plate Connections

Note: Edge Stiffener Supplied if Required.

(a) (b) (c)

2.2.a. Computing gusset width

Wpl = Tr / (φy Fypl t) (2.1)

2.2.b. Calculating angle γ

From geometry of gusset plate, the angle γ can be calculated from:

sin(γ) = (Wpl /2 – b/2)/Lw (2.2)

P = [a + b/2 + (2t + l w )tan(λ )]/cos(90 o − θ)

equations, the following equations should be used.

L 7 = [2a + b + (2t + L w )tan(γ )]/cosθ

L 5 = (2t + L w )/[sin(2γ − θ)cos(γ )

Note: Edge Stiffener Supplied if Required.

2.3. Gusset Plate Detailing

Fabricator Notes for Gusset Plate

 Verify angle γ ≤ 30o (*).

 Verify extension of yield line does not intersect

STRUCTURAL DRAWING S5.1

Figure 2.3. Example of “Fabricator Note Detail” to be Placed on Drawings

3.2. “Preferred Details” for Gusset Plates of “In-Plane” Buckling Braces

3.5. Suggested “Preferred” Details for Gusset Plates of Special Concentrically

Gusset Plate, (see Note 1)

Cover Plate Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom, (see Note 7)

Bolts (see Note 2)

Double Angles, Short Legs Back-to-Back

Bolts (see Note 2) Bolts (see Note 2)

Lap Plate (See Note 8)

Continuity Plates if Needed Gusset Plate, (see Note 1)

1” Thick, Compressible Material

Slotted Plate, Top & Bottom, (see Note 7)

Bolts (see Note 2) Bolts (see Note 2)

HSS or Pipe Bracing

1” Thick, Compressible Material

Verify angle γ ≤ 30o (*).

Verify extension of yield line does not intersect