REFERENCE MANUAL

AND
SPREADSHEET USERS
GUIDE

Joist Girder Moment Connections to

the Weak Axis of Wide Flange
Columns - Top Plate

Version 2.0

Steel Joist Institute

140 W. Evans St. Suite 203
Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 407-4091
www.steeljoist.org
© COPYRIGHT 2020 STEEL JOIST INSTITUTE
Joist Girder Moment Connections to the Weak Axis of Wide
Flange Columns - Top Plate
A typical moment connection to the weak axis of a W shape is shown in Figure 1. The
top plate transfers the top chord force to the column. The Joist Girder seat is a bracket
connection. The weld connecting the bracket web to the column web is assumed to
transfer only the vertical reaction (shear) of the Joist Girder to the column web. The
horizontal plates transfer the horizontal forces from the bracket eccentric moment. They
also prevent the bracket web plate from buckling. The horizontal plates at the stabilizer
plate transfer the bottom chord force to the flanges of the column and prevent the
stabilizer plate from buckling. Shown in Figure 2 is the condition where Joist Girders
frame to both sides of the column.

Figure 1: Joist Girder on one side of the column

2
 Figure 2: Joist Girders on both sides of the column

Design Requirements:

For brevity, this Manual is presented in LRFD format. ASD design procedures follow
in a parallel nature. Before using the Spreadsheet, the user should perform a
structural analysis to determine that the column has the available strength to resist
the applied loads. The user should also have a working knowledge of the AISC
connection design requirements.

A. Top Plate Connection, Cap Plate and Cap Plate Weld:

The required strength of the top plate is determined from the axial force in the top
chord of the Joist Girder, Pu = Mr/de. Where, Mr is the required end moment of the
Joist Girder, and de is taken as the distance from the top of the Joist Girder to the
half depth of the bottom chord leg. The required top plate area = Pu/fFy, where f =
0.9. The length of the plate is determined based on the required length of fillet welds
used to attach the plate to the column cap plate and the top chord.

Shear lag must be checked per the 2016 AISC “Specification for Structural Steel
Buildings”, Table D3.1 (Case 4) “Shear Lag Factors for Connections to Tension
Members”. The tensile rupture strength of the top plate is calculated in accordance
with AISC Specification Equations D2-2 and D3-1.

3
 For the top plate connection to the column cap plate and to the Joist Girder top
chord angles, the Spreadsheet also reduces the tensile rupture strength for shear
lag in accordance with Case 4.

The Joist Girder manufacturer has the responsibility to check the top chord angles
for shear lag. The shear lag factor is calculated for the top chord based on the input
of the angle size. Shear lag factors greater than 0.92 do not have an effect on the
Joist Girder chords. Providing longer fillet welds reduces shear lag effects.

Where Joist Girders frame to both sides of a column (Moment - Interior W Column),
the minimum weld requirement to each Joist Girder top chord is checked. The
column shear yielding, cap plate thickness, and the weld required from the cap plate
to the column are checked for the force delivered by the Joist Girder on each side of
the column. These results are found under the heading, SUMMARY RESULTS for
MOMENT CONNECTION. The minimum requirements for column shear yielding,
cap plate thickness, and the weld required from the cap plate to the column are
based on the algebraic sum of the top chord forces in the top plate. These results
are found under the heading “COMBINED LEFT & RIGHT JOIST GIRDER
RESULTS”.

1. Tensile yielding strength of top plate (f = 0.9)

Rn = FyAplate, kips AISC D2-1

2. Tensile rupture strength of top plate (f = 0.75)

3l 2 æ x ö
U= ç 1- ÷ AISC Table D3.1 - Case 4
3l 2 + w 2 è l ø
where,
l +l
l= 1 2
2
x = eccentricity, in.

Rn = UFuAplate, kips AISC D2-2

3. Shear yielding strength of column (f = 0.9)

Vn = (2)0.6FybftfCv2 AISC G6-1

For all W shapes with Fy ≤ 70 ksi, Cv2 = 1.0

The Spreadsheet does not check the column flange shear below the bottom chord of
the Joist Girders.

4
 NOTE: If the flanges do not have the available strength for shear, then a column with
more flange area should be selected.

4. Joist Girder top chord shear lag factor

3l 2 æ x ö
U= ç1- ÷ AISC Table D3.1 - Case 4
3l 2 + w 2 è l ø

5. Weld strength between Joist Girder and top plate (f = 0.75)

rn = (0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w tc), kips/in.

fRn = (2)(frn)(L tc), kips

6. Weld strength between top plate and column cap plate (f = 0.75)

rn = (0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w cp), kips/in.

fRn = (2)(frn)(L cp), kips

7. Weld strength between column cap plate and column flanges (f = 0.75)

Rn = (0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w ccp)(4bf - 4k1)

B. Bracket Connection (Stiffened Seat Connection):

The bracket connection consists of a vertical stiffener plate and top and bottom
stiffener plates. The top plate is used for the seat. The bracket seat transfers the
Joist Girder reaction to the stiffener plate. The stiffener plate transfers the vertical
reaction (shear) to the column web. The moment created by the eccentricity of the
reaction is transferred to the column flanges as a force couple in the top and bottom
plates. The eccentricity is taken as the distance W s - N/2.

The seat width is determined from the minimum bearing length, N, from the 2015 SJI
“Standard Specification for K-Series, LH-Series, and DLH-Series Open Web Steel
Joists and for Joist Girders”, Section 5.4.

The following design provisions and checks are required:

1. AISC provisions indicate that when supporting beams, the stiffener thickness, ts,
should be equal to or greater than the thickness of the supported beam web, tw,
multiplied by the ratio of Fy of the beam material to Fy of the stiffener material. Since
Joist Girder seats are typically composed of two angles with a 1 in. gap between the
angles, this requirement does not apply. In lieu of this requirement, a minimum
stiffener and seat plate thickness of 1/2 in. is recommended.

2. Determine the maximum bracket height.

5
 The maximum bracket height equals:
The Joist Girder depth - the seat height - the bottom chord angle depth - 1/2 of
the remaining stabilizer plate height - 3 in. clearance.

3. Strength of seat plates and stiffener plate for local buckling

For the top and bottom plates of the bracket:

b E
£ 0.38 AISC Table B4.1b - Case 11
tp Fy

For the web of the bracket (vertical stiffener plate):

h E
£ 3.76 AISC Table B4.1b - Case 15
ts Fy

Where, b is the width of the plate between the vertical stiffener and the flange of the
column, h is the clear height of the vertical stiffener plate between the horizontal
plates, t p is the seat plate thickness and t s is the stiffener plate thickness.

4. Shear yielding strength of seat plate (f = 1.0)

Rn = (2)(N)(0.6)(Fy)(t p), kips AISC J4-3

5. Uplift strength of seat plate (f = 0.9)

The seat plate must also be checked for bending and shear from uplift reactions.
The effective width of plate, beff, is determined by using a 45 degree projection from
the bolt line to the face of the stiffener plate. beff cannot be greater than N. The
available bolt uplift strength must be determined by the engineer of record or the
specifying professional. Uplift bolt strength should be based on the Steel Joist
Institute’s Technical Digest 6, “Design of Steel Joist Roofs to Resist Uplift Loads”.

Based on a bolt gage, g, and using a 45 degree projection, the effective width in
bending for the seat plate equals:

beff = 2(g - t s)/2 ≤ N = g - t s ≤ N, in.

The nominal flexural strength, Mn = FyZ, kip-in. AISC F11-1

Mn = Fy beff(t p)2/4, kip-in.

Lever arm = (g - t s)/2, in.
fRn = 2fMn/Lever arm, kips

6
 The Spreadsheet performs this calculation even if no uplift load case exists.

6. Bearing strength on stiffener plate contact area (f = 0.75)

Rn = 1.8Fy A pb AISC J7-1

where,
Apb = projected bearing area, in.2

7. Shear yielding strength of stiffener plate (f = 1.0)

The vertical stiffener plate has two 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. corner clips to avoid overlapping
welds at the horizontal plates. Therefore, 1.5 in. is subtracted from L s.

Rn = (0.6)(Fy)(L s - 1.5 in.)(t s), kips AISC J4-3

8. Weld strength between vertical stiffener plate and column web (f = 0.75)

Rn = (2)(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w s)(L s - 1.5 in.), kips

If the column web or vertical stiffener is not thick enough to develop the fillet weld,
then a reduction in the strength of the fillet weld must be taken. The reduction factor
applied to the weld strength is calculated as the thickness of the column web divided
by the required thickness to develop the weld.

9. Weld strength between stiffener plate and top and bottom plates (f = 0.75)

The weld that connects the stiffener plate to the top bracket plate is required to resist
any uplift present, as well as the shear flow, q, due to bending in the bracket.

The uplift force is resisted by an effective weld length below the joist girder seat
equal to the bolt gage minus the stiffener plate thickness, but not to exceed the
bearing length.

The shear flow, q, is determined from strength of materials equation, q = VQ/I. I and
Q are calculated and reported under the BUILT-UP SEAT SECTION PROPERTIES
in cells R39 and R40.

The uplift weld force and shear flow are then combined by the square root of the
sum of the squares since they are acting perpendicular to one another.

For simplicity the bottom plate weld requirements are assumed equal to the top plate
requirements.

The nominal strength of the welds, kips/in. is calculated from the equation:
Rn = (2)(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w s). Two welds resist the shear.

7
 If the seat plate or vertical stiffener plate is not thick enough to develop the fillet
weld, then a reduction in the strength of the fillet weld must be taken. The reduction
factor applied to the weld strength is calculated as the thickness of the seat plate or
vertical stiffener plate divided by the required thickness to develop the weld.

10. Weld strength between horizontal seat bracket plates and column flanges (f = 0.75)

The required shear on the welds is caused by the eccentricity of the load on the
bracket. Four welds resist the shear at each plate.

Vr = (Ru)(W s - N/2)/(L s + t p) kips/plate

fRn = f(4)(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w p)(weld length)
where,
weld length = (bf - tw)/2 - cc
cc = corner clip = (k1 - tw/2) rounded up to the nearest 1/4 in.

If the plate or column flange is not thick enough to develop the fillet weld, then a
reduction in the strength of the fillet weld must be taken. The reduction factor applied
to the weld strength is calculated as the thickness of the plate or column flange
divided by the required thickness to develop the weld.

11. Block shear rupture strength of column flanges (f = 0.75)

There are four shear planes and two tension planes at each horizontal plate.
Rn = (4)(0.6)Fytf[(bf - tw)/2 - cc] + 2UbsFu tf t p
where,
cc = corner clip = (k1 - tw/2) rounded up to the nearest 1/4 in.
Ubs = 1.0

12. Flexural strength of bracket (f = 0.9)

Mn = FyZ
where,
Z is the plastic section modulus of the bracket
fMn ≥ Ru(W s - N/2)

13. Flexural strength of horizontal seat bracket plates (f = 0.9)

From AISC Section F11.1 For rectangular bars with Lbd/t2 ≤ 0.08E/Fy bent about
their major axis:

Mn = Mp = FyZ ≤ 1.6FySx AISC F11-1

From AISC Section F11.2 (b) For rectangular bars with 0.08E/Fy < Lbd/t2 ≤ 1.9E/Fy
bent about their major axis:

8
 é æ L d ö Fy ù
Mn = Cb ê1.52 - 0.274 ç b2 ÷ ú My £ Mp AISC F11-2
ë è t øEû

From F11.2 (c) For rectangular bars with Lbd/t2 > 1.9E/Fy bent about their major axis:

Mn = FcrSx ≤ Mp AISC F11-3

where,
1.9ECb
Fcr = AISC F11-4
Lb d
t2
Lb = laterally unbraced length of member, in.
= (d - 2tf)/2 (supported by the column flanges and the bracket web)
Lbd/t2 = Lbdp/(t p)2
dp = depth of rectangular bar = (bf - tw)/2, in.
t = t p = width of rectangular bar parallel to axis of bending, in.
Mp = FyZ
Z = (t p)(dp)2/4
My = FySx
Sx = (t p)(dp)2/6
Cb is conservatively taken as 1.0.

14. Shear yielding strength of column (f = 0.9)

Vn = (2)0.6FybftfCv2 AISC G6-1

C. Bottom Chord Connection:

The bottom chord of the Joist Girder must be attached to the stabilizer plate to resist
the chord force. In addition, the stabilizer plate must transfer this same force to the
column. Stabilizer plates are normally sized based on a 3/4 in. thickness of plate.
Using a 3/4 in. plate allows the plate to fit between the bottom chord angles allowing
fillet welds to be made to the heels and toes of the chord angles. The specifying
professional must specify that the Joist Girder bottom chords be a minimum
thickness to accommodate the required weld size. The Joist Girder manufacturer
has the responsibility to check the bottom chord angles for shear lag using Case 4
from Table D3.1. As is the case for the top chord, it is recommended that the weld
length on the bottom chord is a minimum of two times the bottom chord leg width.
For reference, the shear lag factor is calculated for the bottom chord based on the
input of the angle size. Shear lag factors greater than 0.92 do not have an effect on
the Joist Girders. Providing longer length fillet welds will reduce shear lag effects.

1. Weld strength between bottom chord and stabilizer plate (f = 0.75)

9
 There are four welds:

fRn = (4)(1.392)D, kips/in.

Required length = Pu/fRn, in.

2. Tensile yielding of stabilizer plate (f = 0.9)

Pn = FyAg AISC D2-1

fPn = f(Fy)(t st)(W eff), kips
where,
t st = stabilizer plate thickness, in.
W eff = stabilizer plate effective width based on the Whitmore section, in.
See AISC Manual page 9-3 for an explanation of the Whitmore section.

The width of the Whitmore section equals (2)(tan 30o)(weld length) plus the bottom
chord leg height. The effective width is limited to the width of the stabilizer plate.

3. Block shear rupture strength of stabilizer plate (f = 0.75)

(a) Block Shear Plane 1:

Rn = 0.60FuAnv + UbsFuAnt ≤ 0.60FyAgv + UbsFuAnt, kips AISC J4-5

Anv = net area subject to shear, in.2
Agv = gross area subject to shear, in.2
Ant = net area subject to tension, in.2
Ubs = 1.0

(b) Block Shear Plane 2:

Checked as in (a).

4. Joist Girder bottom chord shear lag factor

3l 2 æ x ö
U= ç 1- ÷ AISC Table D3.1 - Case 4
3l 2 + w 2 è l ø
where,
l +l
l= 1 2
2
x = eccentricity, in.

5. Shear yielding strength of top and bottom stiffener plates (f = 1.0)

There are four shear planes.

Rn = (4)(0.6)(Fy)(t ss)[(bf - tw)/2 - cc]

10
 cc = corner clip
= (k1 - tw/2) rounded up to nearest 1/4 in.

6. Flexural strength of stiffener plates (f = 0.9)

The flexural strength of the stiffener plates is checked for a concentrated force
exerted on them from the stabilizer plate. The plates are analyzed as simple beams
spanning between the flanges of the column, span = d - 2tf, and having a depth
equal to (bf - tw)/2. The required moment, Mr, per plate, is taken as PrL/4, where Pr is
the force from the stabilizer.

Mr = PrL/4
where,
L = d - 2tf

From AISC Section F11.1 For rectangular bars with Lbd/t2 ≤ 0.08E/Fy bent about
their major axis:

Mn = Mp = FyZ ≤ 1.6FySx AISC F11-1

From AISC Section F11.2 (b) For rectangular bars with 0.08E/Fy < Lbd/t2 ≤ 1.9E/Fy
bent about their major axis:

é æ L d ö Fy ù
Mn = Cb ê1.52 - 0.274 ç b2 ÷ ú My £ Mp AISC F11-2
ë è t øEû

From F11.2 (c) For rectangular bars with Lbd/t2 > 1.9E/Fy bent about their major axis:

Mn = FcrSx ≤ Mp AISC F11-3

where,
1.9ECb
Fcr = AISC F11-4
Lb d
t2
Lb = laterally unbraced length of member, in.
= (d - 2tf)/2 (supported by the column flanges and the stabilizer plate)
Lbd/t2 = Lbdp/(t p)2
dp = depth of rectangular bar = (bf - tw)/2, in.
t = t ss = width of rectangular bar parallel to axis of bending, in.
Mp = FyZ
Z = (t ss)(dp)2/4
My = FySx
Sx = (t ss)(dp)2/6
Cb is conservatively taken as 1.0.

11
7. Shear rupture strength of top and bottom stiffener plates (f = 0.75)

There are four shear planes.

Rn = 0.6FuAnv AISC J4-4
Anv = 4(t ss)[(bf - tw)/2 - cc]

8. Weld strength between stabilizer plate and stiffener plates (f = 0.75)

The stabilizer plate must be welded to the top and bottom plates to resist a tensile or
compressive force. Four welds resist the force. The stabilizer plate has 3/4 in. x 3/4
in. corner clips to avoid overlapping welds at the stiffener plates.

fRn = (1.392)(D)(4)(weld length)

Weld length = 4[(bf - tw)/2 - 0.75 in.]

9. Weld strength between stiffener plates and column flanges (f = 0.75)

Eight welds resist the force.

Rn = (8)(0.707)(0.6)(FEXX)(w ss)(weld length)
Weld length = (bf - tw)2 - cc

10. Block shear rupture strength of column flanges (f = 0.75)

There are eight shear planes and four tension planes.

Rn = (8)(0.6)Fytf[(bf - tw)/2 - cc] + 4UbsFu tf (t ss)
Ubs = 1.0

D. Minimum Member Thicknesses (Weld Compatibility):

Throughout the Spreadsheet, checks are made for the minimum thicknesses of base
metal to match the weld strength. For informational purposes, the minimum
thicknesses are reported in the Detailed Results sections of the Spreadsheet. If the
base metal strength is less than the weld metal strength, the base metal strength is
then used to determine the connection strength. From the AISC Specification,
Section J2.4, the design strength, fRn, and the allowable strength, Rn/Ω, of welded
joints shall be the lower value of the base material strength determined according to
the limit states of tensile rupture and shear rupture and the weld metal strength
determined according to the limit state of rupture as follows:

For the base metal: Rn = FnBMABM AISC J2-2

FnBM = nominal stress of the base metal, ksi
ABM = cross-sectional area of the base metal, in.2
Rn = 0.6FuAnv, kips AISC J4-4
Anv = net area subject to shear, in.2
f = 0.75

12
 For the weld metal: Rn = 0.6FEXXAw, kips
Aw = area of the weld, in.2
f = 0.75

The compatibility check is done by comparing the weld strength (kips/in.) to the base
metal strength (kips/in.). In LRFD terms:

fRn weld £ fRn base metal

fweld = 0.75
fbase metal = 0.75
1.39D kips / in £ ( 0.75 )( 0.6 ) t base metalFu , kips / in.

From Part 9 of the AISC Manual:

For fillet welds on one side of the connection:

3.09D
tmin = , in.
Fu

For fillet welds on both sides of the connection:

6.19D
tmin = , in.
Fu

13
EXAMPLE (LRFD):
Given:
W12x87 Column A992
d =12.5 in., bf = 12.1 in.
tw = 0.515 in., tf = 0.81 in.
k1 = 1.0625 in.
Fy = 50 ksi
Fu = 65 ksi
Fy plates = 36 ksi
Fu plates = 58 ksi
Stabilizer plate: 0.75x8 in.
Joist Girder Data:
Mu = 183 kip-ft. = 2196 kip-in. (tension in top chord)
Ru = 90 kips
Joist Girder depth = 36 in.
4x4x3/8 in. angle chords, gap = 1.0 in
Column cap plate thickness = 0.75 in.
Bracket top and bottom plate thickness = 0.625 in.
Bracket stiffener thickness = 0.75 in.
Bracket stiffener length = 12 in.

A. Top Plate Connection, Cap Plate and Cap Plate Weld:

Required top plate area = Pu/fFy. Pu = M/de = (2196 kip-in.)/(36 in. - 2 in.) = 64.6
kips. Ar = (64.6 kips)/[(0.9)(36 ksi)] = 1.99 in.2 Based on the 4 in. chord angles, the
width of the top chord would be 9 in. Try a plate, 1/2 in. x 4 in. The length of the plate
is determined based on the required length of fillet welds used to attach the plate to
the column cap plate and the top chord. Shear lag must be checked per the 2016
AISC Specification Table D3.1 “Shear Lag Factors for Connections to Tension
Members”. It is recommended that the weld length be a minimum of two times the
width of the plate. As noted earlier, the Joist Girder manufacturer is responsible for
this check.

Try 3/16 in. fillet welds. The available force per inch of weld, Rn = f(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)
(3/16 in.). Using FEXX = 70 ksi and f = 0.75, fRn = 4.18 kips/in. Thus, the required
weld length is (64.6 kips)/[(4.18 kips/in.)(2)] = 7.7 in. Use a weld length of 8 in. to
reduce shear lag in the top plate at the Joist Girder top chord.

1. Tensile yielding strength of top plate (f = 0.9)

Rn = FyAplate = (36 ksi)(0.5 in.)(4 in.) = 72 kips

fRn = (0.9)(72 kips) = 64.8 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

2. Tensile rupture strength of top plate (f = 0.75)

Determine the shear lag factor from AISC Specification Table D3.1, Case 4.

3 ( 8 in.)
2
3l 2 æ x ö æ 0.25 in. ö
U= 2 2 ç
1- ÷ = 2 ç
1- = 0.89
3l + w è l ø 3 ( 8 in.) + ( 4 in.) è
2
8 in. ÷ø
where,
l +l
l = 1 2 = 8 in.
2
For the 0.5 in. thick x 4 in. wide top plate:

14
 x = 0.5 in. / 2 = 0.25 in.
w = 4 in.

Rn = UFuAplate = (0.89)(58 ksi)(0.5 in.)(4 in.) = 103 kips

fRn = (0.75)(103 kips) = 77.3 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

3. Shear yielding strength of column (f = 0.9)

Vn = (2)0.6FybftfCv2
Cv2 = 1.0
Vn = (2)(0.6)(50 ksi)(12.1 in.2)(0.81 in.)(1.0) = 588 kips
fVn = (0.9)(588 kips) = 529 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

4. Joist Girder top chord shear lag factor

B2tc + t tc (Btc - t tc ) (4 in.)2 + (0.375 in.) ( 4 in. - 0.375 in.)

Calculated x = = = 1.14 in.
2 ( 2Btc - t tc ) 2 éë( 2 )( 4 in.) - 0.375 in.ùû
3 ( 8 in.)
2
3l 2 æ x ö æ 1.14 in. ö
U= 2 2 ç
1- ÷ = 2 ç
1- = 0.79
3l + w è l ø 3 ( 8 in.) + ( 4 in.) è
2
8 in. ÷ø
where,
l +l
l = 1 2 = 8 in.
2
w = 4 in.
For the 0.375 in. thick x 4 in. angles :
x = 1.12 in. from the AISC Manual is slightly different than the calculated value

5. Weld strength between Joist Girder and top plate (f = 0.75)

rn = (0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w tc) = (0.6)(70 ksi)(0.707)(0.1875 in.) = 5.57 kips/in.

fRn = (2)(frn)(L tc) = (2)(0.75)(5.57 kips/in.)(8 in.) = 66.8 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

6. Weld strength between top plate and column cap plate (f = 0.75)

rn = (0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w cp) = (0.6)(70 ksi)(0.707)(0.1875 in.) = 5.57 kips/in.

fRn = (2)(frn)(L cp) = (2)(0.75)(5.57 kips/in.)(8 in.) = 66.8 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

7. Weld strength between column cap plate and column flanges (f = 0.75)

Rn = (0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w ccp)(4bf - 4k1)

= (0.6)(70 ksi)(0.707)(0.25 in.)[(4)(12.1 in.) - (4)(1.0625 in.)] = 328 kips
fRn = (0.75)(328 kips) = 246 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

15
B. Bracket Connection (Stiffened Seat Connection):

1. Minimum seat plate and stiffener plate thickness = 0.5 in.

2. Determine the maximum bracket height.

The maximum bracket height equals:

The Joist Girder depth - the seat height - the bottom chord angle depth - 1/2 of
the remaining stabilizer plate height - 3 in. clearance.

36 in. - 7.5 in. - 4 in. - (0.5)(8 in. - 4 in.) - 3 in. = 19.5 in.

3. Strength of seat plates and stiffener plate for local buckling

The unbraced seat plate width, b = (d - 2bf)/2

b = [12.5 in. - (2)(0.81 in.)]/2 = 5.44 in.

For the top and bottom plates of the bracket:

b E 29,000 ksi
£ 0.38 = 0.38 = 10.8
tp Fy 36 ksi
t p min = 5.44 in./10.8 = 0.504 in. < 0.625 in., ok

For the web of the bracket (vertical stiffener plate):

h E 29,000 ksi
£ 3.76 = 3.76 = 107
ts Fy 36 ksi
t s min = 12 in./107 = 0.11 in. < 0.75 in., ok

4. Shear yielding strength of seat plate (f = 1.0)

Rn = (2)(N)(0.6)(Fy)(t p), kips

= (2)(4 in.)(0.6)(36 ksi)(0.625 in.) = 108 kips
fRn = (1.0)(108 kips) = 108 kips > 90 kips, ok

5. Uplift strength of seat plate (f = 0.9)

beff = (g - t s) ≤ N = 5 in. - 0.75 in. = 4.25 in. > 4 in., beff = 4 in.
Mn = FyZ
= Fy beff(t p)2/4
= (36 ksi)(4 in.)(0.625 in.)2/4
= 14.1 kip-in. per side
fMn = (0.9)(14.1 kip-in.) = 12.7 kip-in. per side

16
 Lever arm = (g - t s)/2 = (5 in. - 0.75 in.)/2 = 2.125 in.
fRn = 2fMn/Lever arm = (2)(12.7 kip-in.)/2.125 in. = 12.0 kips

6. Bearing strength on stiffener plate contact area (f = 0.75)

Rn = 1.8FyApb
= (1.8)(36 ksi)(4 in.)(0.75 in.) = 194 kips
fRn = (0.75)(194 kips) = 146 kips > 90 kips, ok

7. Shear yielding strength of stiffener plate (f = 1.0)

Rn = (0.6)(Fy)(L s - 1.5 in.)(t s)

= (0.6)(36 ksi)(12 in. - 1.5 in.)(0.75 in.) = 170 kips
fRn = (1.0)(170 kips) = 170 kips > 90 kips, ok

8. Weld strength between vertical stiffener plate and column web (f = 0.75)

Try 1/4 in. fillet welds.

Rn = (2)(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w s)(L s - 1.5 in.)
= (2)(0.6)(70 ksi)(0.707)(0.25 in.)(12 in. - 1.5 in.) = 156 kips
fRn = (0.75)(156 kips) = 117 kips > 90 kips, ok

Use 1/4 in. fillet welds

9. Weld strength between stiffener plate and top and bottom plates (f = 0.75)

Shear flow:

I = 650 in.4
Q = 42.9 in.3
Ruh = q = VQ/I = (90 kips)(42.9 in.3)/(650 in.4) = 5.94 kips/in.

For an uplift case:

beff = 4 in.
Ru = 11.9 kips maximum uplift from previous calculations
Ruv = Ru/[(2)(beff)] = 11.9 kips/[(2)(4 in.)] = 1.49 kips/in.
Ruh = q = VQ/I = (11.9 kips)(42.9 in.3)/(650 in.4) = 0.785 kips/in.
Weld resultant:
(1.49 kips / in.) + (0.785 kips / in.)
2 2 2 2
Ru = Ruv + Ruh = = 1.68 kips / in.

Rn = (2)(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w s) = (2)(0.6)(70 ksi)(0.707)(0.25 in.) = 14.8 kips/in.

fRn = (0.75)(14.8 kips/in.) = 11.1 kips/in. > 5.94 kips/in., ok

Use 1/4 in. fillet welds

17
10. Weld strength between horizontal seat bracket plates and column flanges (f = 0.75)

Vr = (Ru)(W s - N/2)/(L s + t p) kips/top or bottom plate

= (90 kips)(11 in. - 4 in./2)/(12 in. + 0.625 in.) = 64.2 kips

cc = k1 - tw/2 = 1.063 in.- 0.515 in./2

= 0.806 in. rounded up to nearest 1/4 in. = 1 in.

Weld length = (bf - tw)/2 - cc

= (12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 1 in. = 4.79 in.

Rn = (4)(0.6)(FEXX)(0.707)(w p)(weld length)

= (4)(0.6)(70 ksi)(0.707)(0.25 in.)(4.79 in.) = 142 kips
fRn = (0.75)(142 kips) = 107 kips > 64.2 kips, ok

11. Block shear rupture strength of column flanges (f = 0.75)

There are four shear planes and two tension planes at each horizontal plate.
Rn = (4)(0.6)Fytf[(bf - tw)/2 - cc] + 2UbsFu tf t p
Rn = (4)(0.6)(50 ksi)(0.81 in.)[(12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 1 in.]
+ (2)(1.0 in.)(65 ksi)(0.81 in.)(0.625 in.) = 532 kips
fRn = (0.75)(532 kips) = 399 kips > 64.2 kips, ok

12. Flexural strength of bracket (f = 0.9)

Mu = Ru(W s - N/2) = (90 kips)(11 in. - 4 in./2) = 810 kip-in.

Mn = FyZ = (36 ksi)(113 in.3) = 4,070 kip-in.
fMn = (0.9)(4,070 kip-in.) = 3,660 kip-in. > 810 kip-in., ok

13. Flexural strength of horizontal seat bracket plates (f = 0.9)

w = (Ru)(Ws - N/2)/(L s + t p)/(d - 2tf)

= (90 kips)(11 in. - 4 in./2)/(12 in. + 0.625 in.)/[12.5 in. - (2)(0.81 in.)]
= 5.90 kips/in.

Mr = wL2/8 = (5.90 kips/in.)[(12.5 in. - (2)(0.81in.)]2/8 = 87.3 kip-in.

From AISC Section F11-2 (b) For rectangular bars with 0.08E/Fy < Lbd/t2 ≤ 1.9E/Fy
bent about their major axis:

Lb = (d - 2tf)/2 = [(12.5 in. - (2)(0.81 in.)]/2 = 5.44 in.

dp = (bf - tw)/2 = (12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 = 5.79 in.
Lbdp/t2 = (5.44 in.)(5.79 in.)/(0.625 in.)2 = 80.6
0.08E/Fy < Lbd/t2 ≤ 1.9E/Fy, 64.4 < 80.6 ≤ 1,531

18
 therefore:
é æ L d ö Fy ù
Mn = Cb ê1.52 - 0.274 ç b2 ÷ ú My £ Mp
ë è t øEû
Z = (t p)(dp) /4 = (0.625 in.)(5.79 in.)2/4 = 5.24 in.3
2

Mp = FyZ = (36 ksi)(5.24 in.3) = 189 kip-in

Sx = (t p)(dp)2/6 = (0.625 in.)(5.79 in.)2/6 = 3.49 in.3
My = FySx = (36 ksi)(3.49 in.3) = 126 kip-in
é æ 36 ksi ö ù
Mn = (1.0 ) ê1.52 - 0.274 ( 80.6 ) ç ÷ ú (126 kip - in ) £ 189 kip - in
ë è 29,000 ksi ø û
= 188 kip - in.
fMn = (0.9)(188 kip-in.) = 169 kip-in. > 87.3 kip-in., ok

14. Shear yielding strength of column (f = 0.9)

Vn = (2)0.6FybftfCv2
= (2)(0.6)(50 ksi)(12.1 in.)(0.81 in.)(1.0) = 588 kips
fVn = (0.9)(588 kips) = 529 kips > 64.2 kips, ok

C. Bottom Chord Connection:

1. Weld strength between bottom chord and stabilizer plate (f = 0.75)

Try 3/16 in. fillet welds.

fRn = (4)(1.392 kips/in.)(3) = 16.7 kips/in.
Required length = 64.6 kips/16.7 kips/in. = 3.87 in.
Use 8 in. of weld to minimize shear lag.
fRn = (16.7 kips/in.)(8.0 in.) = 134 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

Use (4) 3/16 in. fillet welds 8 in. long

The specifying professional must request that the Joist Girder bottom chords be a
minimum of 1/4 in. thickness. The Joist Girder manufacturer is responsible for the
shear lag check of the bottom chord.

2. Tensile yielding of stabilizer plate (f = 0.9)

Rn = (Fy)(t st)(W eff)

The width of the Whitmore section equals (2)(tan 30o)(8 in.) plus the bottom
chord leg length = 9.2 in. + 4 in. = 13.2 in. > 8 in.
W eff = 8 in.
Rn = (36 ksi)(0.75 in.)(8 in.) = 216 kips
fRn = (0.9)(216 kips) = 194 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

3. Block shear rupture strength of stabilizer plate (f = 0.75)

19
 (a) Block Shear Plane 1:

Rn = 0.60FuAnv + UbsFuAnt ≤ 0.60FyAgv + UbsFuAnt

Anv = Agv = (2)(8 in.)(0.75 in.) = 12.0 in.2
Ant = (4 in.)(0.75 in.) = 3.0 in.2
Rn = (0.60)(36 ksi)(12.0 in.2)+(1.0)(58 ksi)(3.0 in.2) = 433 kips

(b) Block Shear Plane 2:

Anv = Agv = (8 in.)(0.75 in.) = 6.0 in.2

Ant = [Leg length + (W st - Leg length)/2]tst
= [4 in. + (8 in. - 4 in.)/2](0.75 in.) = 4.5 in.2
Rn = (0.60)(36 ksi)(6.0 in.2)+(1.0)(58 ksi)(4.5 in.2) = 391 kips < 433 kips
fRn = (0.75)(391 kips) = 293 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

4. Joist Girder bottom chord shear lag factor

3 ( 8 in.)
2
3l 2 æ x ö æ 1.14 in. ö
U= 2 2 ç
1- ÷ = 2 ç
1- = 0.79
3l + w è l ø 3 ( 8 in.) + ( 4 in.) è
2
8 in. ÷ø
where,
l +l
l = 1 2 = 8 in.
2
For the 0.375 in. thick x 4 in. angles :
w = 4 in.
x = 1.12 in. from the AISC Manual is slightly different than the calculated value

5. Shear yielding strength of top and bottom stiffener plates (f = 1.0)

cc = (k1 - tw/2) rounded up to nearest 1/4 in.

= 1.063 in. - 0.515 in./2 = 0.8055 in. Rounded up to 1 in.
There are four shear planes.
Rn = (4)(0.6)(Fy)(t ss)[(bf - tw)/2 - cc]
= (4)(0.6)(36 ksi)(0.5 in.)[(12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 1 in.] = 207 kips
fRn = (1.0)(207 kips) = 207 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

6. Flexural strength of stiffener plates (f = 0.9)

From AISC Section F11.2 (b) For rectangular bars with 0.08E/Fy < Lbd/t2 ≤ 1.9E/Fy
bent about their major axis:

Lb = (d - 2tf)/2 = [(12.5 in. - (2)(0.81 in.)]/2 = 5.44 in.

dp = (bf - tw)/2 = (12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 = 5.79 in.

20
 Lbdp/(t ss)2 = (5.44 in.)(5.79 in.)/(0.5 in.)2 = 126
0.08E/Fy < Lbd/t2 ≤ 1.9E/Fy, 64.4 < 126 ≤ 1531

therefore:
é æ L d ö Fy ù
Mn = Cb ê1.52 - 0.274 ç b2 ÷ ú My £ Mp
ë è t øEû
Z = (t ss)(dp)2/4 = (0.5 in.)(5.79 in.) 2/4 = 4.19 in.3
Mp = FyZ = (36 ksi)(4.19 in.3) = 151 kip-in.
Sx = (t ss)(dp)2/6 = (0.5 in.)(5.79 in.)2/6 = 2.79 in.3
My = FySx = (36 ksi)(2.79 in.3) = 101 kip-in.
é æ 36 ksi ö ù
Mn = (1.0 ) ê1.52 - 0.274 (126 ) ç ÷ ú (101kip - in.) £ 151kip - in.
ë è 29,000 ksi ø û
Mn = 149 kip-in. per plate
fMn = (0.9)(149 kip-in.) = 134 kip-in. per plate
fMn = fRnL/4
fRn = 4fMn/L = (4)(134 kip-in.)/10.88 in. = 49.3 kips/plate
where, L = d - 2tf = 12.5 in. - (2)(0.81 in.) = 10.88 in.
For two plates, fRn = 98.6 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

7. Shear rupture strength of top and bottom stiffener plates (f = 0.75)

There are four shear planes.

Anv = 4(t ss)[(bf - tw)/2 - cc] = (4)(0.5 in.)[(12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 1 in.] = 9.59 in.2
Rn = (0.6)FuAnv = (0.6)(58 ksi)(9.59 in.2) = 334 kips
fRn = (0.75)(334 kips) = 251 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

8. Weld strength between stabilizer plate and stiffener plates (f =0.75)

The stabilizer plate must be welded to the top and bottom stiffener plates to resist a
compression force of 64.6 kips.

Try 3/16 in. fillet welds.

Weld length = (4)[(bf - tw)/2 - 0.75 in.]
= (4)[(12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 0.75 in.] = 20.2 in.
fRn = (1.392 kips/in.)(3)(20.2 in.) = 84.4 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

Use (4) 3/16 in. fillet welds

9. Weld strength between stiffener plates and column flanges (f = 0.75)

Eight welds resist the force.

Weld length = (bf - tw)2 - cc = (12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 1 in. = 4.79 in.
Rn = (8)(0.707)(0.6)(FEXX)(w ss)(weld length)
= (8)(0.707)(0.6)(70 ksi)(0.1875 in.)(4.79 in.) = 213 kips

21
 fRn = (0.75)(213 kips) = 160 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

10. Block shear rupture strength of column flanges (f = 0.75)

There are eight shear planes and four tension planes.

Rn = (8)(0.6)Fytf[(bf - tw)/2 - cc] + 4UbsFu tf (t ss)
= (8)(0.6)(50 ksi)(0.81 in.)[(12.1 in. - 0.515 in.)/2 - 1 in.]
+ (4)(65 ksi)(0.81 in.)(0.5 in.)
= 1,037 kips
fRn = (0.75)(1,037 kips) = 778 kips > 64.6 kips, ok

22
PROGRAM USAGE GUIDE
Joist Girder Moment Connections to the Weak Axis of Wide Flange
Columns - Top Plate

Spreadsheet Philosophy:
The Spreadsheet is structured to allow the user to input all data rather than forcing
computer generated values. This allows the user to select values or to use office
standards. This is especially useful when a multitude of designs are being considered
so that calculations can be provided for “lumping” common values.

Spreadsheet Description:
The Spreadsheet has seven sheet tabs consisting of General Information, Formatting,
Sidewall W Column Diagram, Moment - Sidewall W Column, Interior W Column
Diagram, Moment - Interior W Column, and AISC Database v15.
• General Information - List of design references, explanation of LFRD and ASD
color coding.
• Formatting - Information on the printing formatting setup for the Spreadsheet.
• Sidewall W Column Diagram - A diagram of the connection being designed for a
Joist Girder to a sidewall W column (with nomenclature).
• Moment - Sidewall W Column - Design input and output sheet for the moment
connection for a Joist Girder to a sidewall W column.
• Interior W Column Diagram - A diagram of the connection being designed for two
Joist Girders to an interior W column (with nomenclature).
• Moment - Interior W Column - Design input and output sheet for the moment
connection for two Joist Girders to an interior W column.
• AISC Database v15 - AISC shape data for use in the connection design.

The actual design input and output sheets have been formatted to print all required
information for the design calculations of the connections.

Spreadsheet Usage:
Before using the Spreadsheet, you should have in your possession:
1. The Steel Joist Institute’s Technical Digest 11, “Design of Lateral Load Resisting
Frames Using Steel Joists and Joist Girders”.
2. The Steel Joist Institute’s Technical Digest 6, “Design of Steel Joist Roofs to
Resist Uplift Loads”.
3. ANSI/AISC 360-16, “Specification for Structural Steel Buildings”.
4. The Steel Joist Institute’s “Standard Specification for Joist Girders”, 2015.
5. Frame analysis results, such as Joist Girder end reactions, connection moments,
and column axial loads.

First read the General Information tab and the Formatting tab.

23
Print out the diagrams: Sidewall W Column Diagram and Interior W Column Diagram.
These will assist you with input requirements. For proper printing of the Spreadsheet,
you may have to reset the margins.

PRELIMINARY DESIGN WORK:

The user can use trial and error to obtain an adequate connection design; however, it is
generally beneficial to do some preliminary sizing of certain input values. An example is
provided at the end of this section as a reference.

Joist Girder Data:

Typically, at the early stage of the design, the actual Joist Girder design is not known by
the user. The user can either estimate the Joist Girder chords, weights and seat sizes,
or they can contact an SJI member company for the information. If the Joist Girder data
is unknown, the following information can be estimated:

• The chord sizes can be estimated as described in Chapter 2 of the SJI Technical
Digest 11.
• The Joist Girder weight can be estimated using the SJI tabulated values in the
published catalog, or by multiplying the chord weight by 2.5. See the
PRELIMINARY SIZING EXAMPLE.
• The seat size can be estimated using the standards set forth by SJI Standard
Code of Practice suggested sizes based on Joist Girder weight.

Top Plate Preliminary Sizing:

The maximum width of the top plate, W tp, is 2 times the chord angle leg size plus the 1
in. gap minus the shelf dimension for the welds.

Minimum Weld Shelf Dimensions

Field Weld Size, in. Minimum Shelf Dimension, in
3/16 7/16
1/4 1/2
5/16 9/16
3/8 5/8
7/16 11/16
1/2 3/4

Table 1 Minimum Weld Shelf Dimensions

The preliminary thickness of the top moment plate, t tp, can be calculated by:

1. First determining the chord force in the Joist Girder. The chord force is obtained
by dividing the end moment of the Joist Girder by the effective depth (Joist Girder
depth - 1/2 of the bottom chord angle size).
2. Then adding any additional chord axial load.

24
 3. The plate thickness is then determined by dividing the chord force by the desired
width of the top plate and fFy (LRFD) or Fy/Ω (ASD).

Stabilizer Plate Preliminary Sizing:

An initial thickness of the stabilizer plate, t st, is based on the 1 in. standard gap between
the Joist Girder chord angles. Typically, a 3/4 in. thickness is used to allow tolerance for
field erection and still allow for fillet welds from the chord angles to the plate.

The width of the stabilizer plate, W st, is estimated by dividing the required axial force
(see Top Plate Preliminary Sizing) by the thickness of the stabilizer plate and fFy
(LRFD) or Fy/Ω (ASD). The stabilizer width must be a minimum of the chord angle leg
size plus the weld shelf dimensions.

Bracket Connection:
Determining the maximum length of the stiffener eliminates checking during the design
process. The maximum bracket height is approximately equal to the Joist Girder depth -
the seat height - the bottom chord angle depth - 1/2 of the remaining stabilizer plate
height - 3 in. clearance. The Joist Girder seat depth is 7 1/2 in. on Joist Girders
weighing 50 plf or less and 10 in. for Joist Girders having a weight over 50 plf.

INPUT:

Use the tabs to select a Moment - Sidewall W Column design or a Moment - Interior
W Column design. If an interior column only has one side with a moment connection,
use the Moment - Sidewall W Column tab.

All yellow filled cells are required input.

There are two pull-down tabs, one used to select whether you want an LRFD or an ASD
design and the second to choose the size of the W column for the design.

The CLEAR buttons can be used to clear all the input cells in the group. There is one
button for connection input and one for the loading input. This CLEAR button does not
clear the project information, i.e., project name, number or engineer.

COLUMN DATA:

Column data is automatically obtained from a file of the AISC W-Shapes after using the
drop-down tab, or by typing in the column size.

JOIST GIRDER DATA:

For preliminary design, if the Joist Girder properties are not known, the chord sizes can
be estimated as described in Chapter 2 of the SJI Technical Digest 11. If you have
conducted your analysis using the SJI Virtual Joist Girder Tables, you can also obtain
the Joist Girder weight from your analysis.

25
JOIST GIRDER & COLUMN DESIGN LOAD DATA:

Fill in the values indicated in the table. Values must be consistent with the type of
design you have selected, i.e. LRFD or ASD. Up to six load cases are permitted per
design. The column axial load is the total axial load on the column and must include the
reaction(s) of the Joist Girder(s).

REMARKS INDICATED ON THE INPUT DATA:

(1) See SJI Specifications for minimum:

This applies to the bearing seat length, N, and bearing seat width, W. The 2015 SJI
Specifications, Section 5.4, indicate that the minimum bearing length is 4 inches, and
the 2015 SJI Code of Standard Practice indicates that, “Joist Girder bearing seat widths
vary depending on the Joist Girder size and shall be permitted to be up to 13" wide.” It is
recommended that the minimum bearing seat length be increased to 6 inches for Joist
Girders weighing more than 50 pounds per foot, and that the bearing seat width be 9
inches for Joist Girders weighing less than 50 pounds per foot and be 13 inches for
Joist Girders weighing more than 50 pounds per foot. The Joist Girder weight can be
estimated from the SJI Catalog values or by multiplying the chord weight by 2.5.

(2) Not to encroach on stabilizer:

The bracket cannot encroach on the stabilizer plate. This must be manually checked.
See comment for Bracket Connection on the previous page.

(3) Less than JG TC width minus weld shelf dimension:

The Joist Girder (JG) top plate width, W tp, must be less than the top chord (TC) width
minus the shelf dimension for the fillet welds connecting the top plate to the top chord,
i.e. 2 times the chord angle size plus the 1 in. gap minus the shelf dimension.

(4) Includes Joist Girder end reactions:

The column axial load, Pu (LRFD) or Pa (ASD), is to include the end reaction(s) of the
Joist Girder(s).

DESIGN REVIEW:

Examine the SUMMARY RESULTS for MOMENT CONNECTION to determine if the

design criteria are satisfied, or if undo conservatism exists relative to any of the input
data. The DETAILED RESULTS for MOMENT CONNECTION provides minimum
design criteria, the nominal strength, and the design strength (LRFD) or the allowable
strength (ASD) for the input data. These values can be studied to determine input
refinements. The user can then make any necessary input changes.

PRELIMINARY SIZING EXAMPLE:

26
For a 36 in. deep Joist Girder spanning 40 ft. with an end moment of 183 kip-ft. and a
panel point load of 15 kips (factored), estimate the chord size. The Joist Girder frames
to the weak axis of a W12x87 column.

Assume a bottom chord angle size of 4 in., Pchord = (12 in./ft.)(183 kip-ft.)/(36 in. - 2 in.) =
64.6 kips

From TD 11 Table 2-1 Double Angle Chord Available Strength (LRFD) for Various
Unbraced Lengths, kips (Fy = 50 ksi, f = 0.90)

Unbraced Length Area

Angle Size
L = 5 ft. in.2
2L 3 x 3 x 1/4 87 2.87
2L 3 x 3 x 3/16 49 2.18
2L 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 x 1/2 124 4.50
2L 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 x 3/8 97 3.47
2L 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 x 5/16 83 2.93
2L 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 x 1/4 68 2.37
2L 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 x 3/16 48 1.80

Table 2-1 (Partial)

The table yields a chord angle size of 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 1/4. However, gravity loads would
control the size. Try (2)L4x4x3/8. Area = 5.72 in.2

Estimate the Joist Girder weight. From the SJI Catalog: 46 plf (partial view shown)

From the chord size, the Joist Girder weight = (2.5)(3.4 plf/in.2)(5.72 in.2) = 48.6 plf
Assume the Joist Girder weight = 48.6 plf

For the top plate, assume a 3/16 in. fillet weld is used to attach the plate. A 7/16 in. weld
shelf dimension is required.

Preliminary top plate size: W tp = 1 in. + 2(4 in. - 0.4375 in.) = 8.125 in. max width

Try W tp = 4 in.
t tp = (64.6 kips)/[(0.9)(4 in.)(36 ksi)] = 0.498 in., Use 1/2 in.

27
Preliminary stabilizer plate size: t st = 3/4 in. for a 1 in. gap between chords

W st = (64.6 kips)/[(0.9)(0.75 in.)(36 ksi)] = 2.66 in.

Use a 8 in. plate
8 in. ≥ 4 in. + 2(0.4375 in.) = 4.875 in., ok

Determine the maximum stiffener length, L s, for the stiffened seat connection:

L s + 2t p = 36 in. - 7.5 in. - 4 in. - (8 in. - 4 in.)/2 - 3 in. = 19.5 in

Conservatively assuming t p = 1 in.,
max L s = 19.5 in. - 2(1 in.) = 17.5 in.

28