REFERENCE MANUAL

AND
SPREADSHEET USERS
GUIDE

Joist Girder Moment Connections to

the Strong Axis of Wide Flange
Columns-
Intermediate Levels
Version 1.0

Steel Joist Institute

234 W. Cheves Street
Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 407-4091
www.steeljoist.org

© COPYRIGHT 2014 STEEL JOIST INSTITUTE

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Joist Girder Moment Connections to the Strong Axis of Wide
Flange Columns- Intermediate Levels

A typical detail for a single Joist Girder moment connection to the strong axis of a W
Shape at an intermediate column level is shown in Figure 1. The detail for Joist
Girders on both sides of the column is shown in Figure 2. These details are
appropriate for multi-story columns. The stiffened seat design criteria are the same
as for a one story column (Moment Connection- W Shape-Top Plate and Stiffened
Seats).

The vertical reaction from the Joist Girder(s) is supported by a stiffened seat welded
to the column flange. If the Joist Girder is modeled as a truss the chord forces are
obtained directly from the model; however, if the Joist Girder is modeled as a beam
element the chord forces are determined by resolving the end moments into force
couples. The top chord force is transferred to the column by using a top plate field
welded to the Joist Girder top chord and to the column flange. For Joist Girders
framing to both sides of the column, the top plate is also used to transfer continuity
forces through the column from one Joist Girder to the other. The bottom chord
force is transferred to the column from the stabilizer plates. Numerous limit states
must be examined. These limit states are discussed below.

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Figure 1: Intermediate level Support- Single Joist Girder

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 Figure 2: Intermediate level Support- Single Joist Girders both sides

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 Chord Connection:

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/Fy, where  =
0.90. The length of the plate is determined based on the required length of fillet
welds used to attach the plate to the column and the top chord. Shear lag must be
checked per the 2010 AISC Specification Table D3.1 “Shear Lag Factors for

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 Connections to Tension Members”. The SPREADSHEET requires the weld length
to be a minimum of two times the width of the top plate for the connection of the top
plate to the Joist Girder top chord. Based on Case 4 in the AISC Manual Table
D3.1, U =1.0 for this condition. For the Top Plate connection to the column, the
SPREADSHEET reduces the strength of the top plate for any shear lag. The Joist
Girder Manufacturer has the responsibility to check the top chord angles for shear
lag. Case 2 from Table D3.1 is applicable for this check. For reference, 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 Girders.
Providing longer fillet welds will reduce shear lag effects.

The plate used to transfer the chord forces to the column is connected with a CJP
weld to the column flange.

B. Column Checks at Top Chord:

1. Flange Local Bending ( = 0.9): Top Plate in tension

Rn = 6.25 Fyf tf 2 AISC J10-1

where
Fyf = specified minimum yield stress of the flange, ksi

tf = thickness of the loaded flange, in. (mm)

If the length of loading across the member flange is less than 0.15bf, where bf is the
member flange width, Equation J10-1 need not be checked.

2. Web Local Yielding ( = 1.0): Top Plate in tension

Rn = Fyw t w  5k +lb  AISC J10-2

where lb = length of bearing (top plate thickness)
Fyw = specified minimum yield stress of the web material, ksi
k = distance from outer face of the flange to the web toe of the fillet, in.
tw = thickness of web, in.

3. Web Crippling ( = 0.75): If Top Plate in compression

  lb   t w 
1.5
 EF t
Rn = 0.80 t 1+ 3    
2
w
 yw f
AISC J10-4

  d   tf  

t w

where d = full nominal depth of the section, in.

4. Web Compression Buckling ( = 0.9): Top Plate in compression

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 Web compression buckling is applicable when a pair of single-concentrated forces is
applied at both flanges of a member. This condition does not exist at the exterior
columns. The available strength for the limit state of web local buckling equals:

24 t 3w E Fyw
Rn  AISC J10-8
h

where, h = clear distance between flanges less the fillet.

NOTE: The column web shear yielding is checked at the Joist Girder top chord
connection independent of the column web panel zone shear.

In cases when the web does not have sufficient strength for the compressive or tensile
forces delivered by the stabilizer, the strength can be increased by:

 Selecting a W Shape with a thicker web.

 Add a stiffener to the web of the column.
 Add a doubler plate (not recommended).

5. Web Panel Zone Shear ( = 0.9)

AISC Specification Equations J10-9 and J10-10 apply when panel-zone deformation
has not been considered in the frame analysis. The SPREADSHEET uses this
condition.

For Pr ≤ 0.4Pc
Rn  0.60 Fy dc t w AISC J10-9

For Pr > 0.4Pc

 P 
Rn  0.60 Fy dc t w 1.4  r  AISC J10-10
 Pc 

where, Pr = the required strength and Pc = Py (LRFD)

The SPREADSHEET does not check the web panel below the bottom chord of the
Joist Girders.

C. Column Web Shear:

The nominal shear strength, Vn, is determined using the provisions of AISC Section
G2.1 ( = 1.0 for rolled shapes when Eq. G2-1 controls, otherwise  = 0.90).

Vn = 0.6FyAwCv AISC G2-1

where, Aw = dtw

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 Cv = 1.0 when h t w ≤ 2.24 E Fy

For webs of all other doubly symmetric shapes and singly symmetric shapes and
channels, except round HSS, the web shear coefficient, Cv, is determined as follows:

When h / t w ≤ 1.10 k vE / Fy Cv = 1.0 AISC G2-3

1.10 k vE / Fy
When 1.10 k vE / Fy < h / t w ≤ 1.37 k vE / Fy Cv = AISC G2-4
h / tw
1.51k vE
When h / t w > 1.37 k vE / Fy Cv = AISC G2-5
h / t w  Fy
2

Where:
h = the clear distance between the flanges less the fillet or corner radii, in. (mm)
tw = thickness of web, in.
kv = 5.

The SPREADSHEET does not check the column web shear below the bottom chord
of the Joist Girders.

NOTE: If the web does not have the available strength for shear, then it is generally
most economical to select a deeper W shape or one with a thicker web. The column
web shear yielding is checked at the Joist Girder top chord connection independent
of the column web panel zone shear.

D. Stiffened Seat Connection:

On stiffened seats for Joist Girders, the seat width (W s) can be determined from the
minimum bearing length, (N) from the SJI Standard Specifications for Joist Girders
Section 1004.4(b) Steel (SJI 2010).1 The reaction is located N/2 from the interior
edge of the seat.

Additionally, for the stiffened seat connection, the stiffener shall be finished to bear
under the seat (AISC Manual Table 10-8).

Most fabricators prefer to fabricate tee from plates rather than using a WT section.

The following limit states and other criteria must be satisfied for proper design of the
Stiffened Seat.

1. When supporting beams, the stiffener thickness ts, should be equal to or greater
than the thickness tw, of the supported beam web. Since Joist Girder seats are
composed of two angles with typically a 1 in. gap between the angles this

1
Consult the SJI 2015 Specifications for revised minimum bearing lengths

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 requirement does not apply. In lieu of this requirement a minimum stiffener
thickness of 1/2 in. is recommended.

2. Local buckling of the stiffener must be prevented. Local buckling is prevented

provided the stiffener thickness is greater than or equal to W/16 as defined in the
2010 AISC Specification Chapter J, Section J10.8(2) where W = width of stiffener.

3. The design bearing strength, Rn, on the contact area of stiffener must satisfy
Equation J7-1 from the 2010 AISC Specification Chapter J, Section J7(a).

 = 0.75
Rn  1.8 Fy Apb AISC J7-1
where,
Apb = projected bearing area, in.2
Apb = Nts
N = the Joist Girder Bearing Length, in.
Fy = specified minimum yield stress of the stiffener plate, ksi (MPa)

4. Eccentric loading on the stiffener:

Pu  6e s -2Ws 
ts  Eq. 5-121
 
 1.8Fy Ws 2

where, es is the eccentricity = (W s – N/2), and N = the Joist Girder Bearing Length,
in.

5. Weld strength requirements (AISC Steel Construction Manual Table 10-8, 14th
edition).

Weld available strengths are tabulated in AISC Table 10-8 using the elastic method.
The stiffener should be finished to bear under the seat. The welds connecting the
two plates should have strength equal to or greater than the horizontal welds to the
support under the seat plate. The thickness of the horizontal seat plate or tee flange
should not be less than 3/8 in., per AISC Table 10-8 discussion.

Consistent with AISC this SPREADSHEET calculates the available weld strength of
the weld group using the elastic method. The required weld strength of the group
must be less than or equal to the available weld strength.

R ≤ Rnw AISC B3-1

Rnw = (0.75)(0.6)(70)(0.707)(D/16) = 1.39D
D = fillet size in 16ths

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 Section modulus and area of the weld:

b b 4bd  d 2 3
Sx  in A  2 b  d  in2
3

Pue s Pu
d Rx  Rv 
Sx A
2 2
Modified Equation 5-15.2
Pe  P 
Ru   u s    u  force/unit length
 Sx   A 
Equate Modified Eq. 5-15 to the weld strength, Rn, to determine Pn

6. Stiffener plate thickness must be adequate to develop the fillet welds. See the
discussion on, “Minimum Member Thicknesses (Weld Compatibility)” on page 12
of this document.

7. Determine the seat plate thickness, tp, based on plate shear ( =1.0)
Pu
tp  Eq. 5-163
 2N0.6 Fy 
N = Joist Girder seat bearing length , in.

8. Check the stiffener for shear yielding ( = 1.0).

Pu
ts = Eq. 5-173
 0.6Fy Ls   
where, Ls is the stiffener plate length.

9. Minimum Fillet Weld Size (AISC Specification Table J2.4): The user must select
weld sizes that comply with Table J2.4.

TABLE J2.4
Minimum Size of Fillet Welds
Material Thickness of Minimum Size of
[a]
Thinner Part Joined, in. (mm) Fillet Weld, in. (mm)
To ¼ (6) inclusive to ½ (13) 1/8 (3)
Over ¼ Over ¼ (6) to ½ (13)6) 3/16 (5)
to Over ½ (13) to ¾ (19)2 1/4 (6)
Over ¾ (19) 5/16 (8)
[a]
Leg dimension of fillet welds. Single pass welds must be used.
Note: See Section J2.2b for maximum size fillet welds.

2
Modified Equation from Salmon and Johnson, “Steel Structures”. Eliminates the minimum limit on the weld length of 0.2d
3
Equation from the SJI Technical Digest 11, “Design of Lateral Load Resisting Frames Using Joist and Joist Girders

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10. Determine minimum column flange thickness for required weld strength.

3.09D
tmin = per AISC Manual , Part 9 Eq. 9 - 2 
Fu

E. Column Web Checks at Bottom Chord:

1. Web Local Yielding ( = 1.0).

Rn =  5k +lb  Fyw t w AISC J10-2

where, lb = length of bearing (W st), in.
Fyw = specified minimum yield stress of the web material, ksi
k = distance from outer face of the flange to the web toe of the fillet, in.
tw = thickness of web, in.

2. Web Crippling ( = 0.75):

  lb   t w 
1.5
 EF t
Rn = 0.80 t 1+ 3    
2
w
 yw f
AISC J10-4

  d   tf  

t w

where, d = full nominal depth of the section, in.

3. Web Compression Buckling ( = 0.9).

Web compression buckling is applicable when a pair of single-concentrated forces is

applied at both flanges of a member. This condition does not exist at the exterior
columns. The available strength for the limit state of web local buckling equals:
24 t 3w E Fyw
Rn  AISC J10-8
h
where, h = clear distance between flanges less the fillet.

NOTE: When unequal depth Joist Girders frame into both sides of the column web,
compression buckling is checked when the stabilizer plates overlap one another. In
cases when the web does not have sufficient strength for the compressive or tensile
forces delivered by the stabilizer, the strength can be increased by:

 Selecting a W Shape with a thicker web.

 Adding a stiffener to the web of the column.
 Adding a doubler plate.

F. Bottom Chord Connection:

The bottom chord of the Joist Girder must be attached to the stabilizer plate to resist
the same force as the top plate. In addition the stabilizer plate must transfer this
same force to the column. Stabilizer plates are normally sized based on a 3/4 in.
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 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. For economy the stabilizer plates can usually be connected to the column
using only fillet welds. Stabilizer plates must be welded to the column flange to resist
the compression and tension forces. The Specifying Professional must specify that
the Joist Girder bottom chords be a minimum thickness to accommodate the
required weld size. As is required for the top chord, the Joist Girder Manufacturer
has the responsibility to check the bottom chord angles for shear lag. Case 2 from
Table D3.1 is applicable for this check. 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.

G. Stabilizer Checks:
1. Determine the weld between the bottom chord and the stabilizer

Required length = Chord Force / Weld Strength = Pu / Rn

Rn = 1.39D times the number of welds (4)

2. Check the Whitmore width for stabilizer (AISC Manual Section 9-3).

If the bottom chord weld starts at the end of the stabilizer, the Whitmore length
equals (2)(tan30o)(Weld Length) + the bottom chord leg height, but not greater than
the stabilizer width (per Whitmore).

3. Check stabilizer yielding ( =0.90)

Pu ≤ Rn

Rn = tshsFy

Where: ts = stabilizer thickness, hs = stabilizer effective width

4. Check stabilizer Block Shear Rupture Strength ( = 0.75). AISC J4.3

(a) Block shear plane 1:

Rn = 0.60FuAnv + UbsFuAnt ≤ 0.60FyAgv + UbsFuAnt

Anv = net area subject to shear, in.2

Ant = net area subject to tension, in.2
Ubs = 1.0

Block Shear Plane 2: Checked as in (a).

5. Determine the weld between the stabilizer and the column.

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 The SPREADSHEET uses the Joist Girder bottom chord forces to determine the weld
requirements. Some designers prefer to provide enough weld to develop the full
strength of the stabilizer.

H. Minimum Member Thicknesses (Weld Compatibility):

Throughout the SPREADSHEET, checks are made for the minimum thicknesses of
base metal to match the weld strength. From the AISC Specification, Section J2.4,
The design strength, Rn 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 (0.6Fu), ksi

ABM = cross-sectional area of the base metal, in2.
Rn = 0.6FuAnv AISC J4-4
Anv = net area subject to shear, in2.
 = 0.75 (LRFD), Ω = 2.00 (ASD)

For the weld metal: Rn = 0.6FEXXAw

Aw = Area of the weld, in2.

 = 0.75 (LRFD), Ω = 2.00 (ASD)

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

R n weld  R n base metal

weld  0.75
base metal  0.75
1.39D kips / in ≤  0.75  0.6  t capFu kips / in.
From Part 9 of the AISC Manual:

For fillet welds on one side of the connection:

3.09D
tmin =
Fu
For fillet welds on both sides of the connection:

6.19D
tmin =
Fu

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EXAMPLE:
Given:
W18x86 A992 Left and Right Joist Girder Data:
d =18.4 in., bf = 11.1 in. M = 1003 kip-ft. (tension on top, factored load)
tw = 0.48 in., tf = 0.77 in. Joist Girder Depth = 48 in.
k = 1.17 in. 4.0 x 0.25 in. Chords, gap = 1.0 in.
Fy = 50 ksi Reaction = 100 kips (factored load)
Fu = 65 ksi Stiffener width = 5.0 in.
Stabilizer Plate: 3/4x8x10 in.
Plate Material A36 except top plate and stabilizer plate, F y = 50 ksi

Note: The column size for this example is intentionally undersized for the
required moment of 1003 kip-ft. This allows for a better demonstration of many of
the design checks.

A. Top Chord Connection:

Based on the 48 in. deep Joist Girder the required axial force, Pr = Mr/de =
(12)(1003)/(48 - 2) = 262 kips, where de is taken as the distance from the top of the
Joist Girder to the half depth of the bottom chord leg.

Required top plate area = Pu/Fy = 262/(0.9)(50) = 5.82 in.2 using Fy = 50 ksi for the
plate. Based on the 4.0 in. chord angles the width of the top chord would be 9 in.
Try a plate, 6 in. x 1 in. The length of the plate is be determined based on the
required length of fillet welds used to attach the plate to the column cap plate and
the top chord.

Try 5/16 in. fillet welds. The available force per inch of weld:
Rn = (0.6 FEXX)(0.707)(5/16). Using FEXX = 70 ksi and  = 0.75, Rn = 6.96 kips/in.
Thus, a total weld length of 262/6.96 = 37.6 in. is required. AISC Specification Table
D3.1, Case 2 applies to the weld attachment to the top chord angles. As noted
earlier the Joist Girder Manufacturer is responsible for this check. Using 20 in. long
welds:

x 1.08
U  1  1  0.95
20
To transfer the 262 kip force into the column a CJP weld is used.

B. Column Checks at Top Chord:

1. Flange Local Bending ( = 0.9): Top Plate in tension

Rn = 6.25 Fyf tf 2 = (0.9)(6.25)(50)(0.77)2 = 166.8 ≤ 262 kips N.G.

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 If the length of loading across the member flange is less than 0.15bf, where bf is the
member flange width, Equation J10-1 need not be checked.

2. Web Local Yielding ( = 1.0): Top Plate in tension

Rn = Fyw t w  5k +lb  =(1.0)50 0.48

 5 1.17
 +1.0
 = 164
 kips
 < 262
kips N.G.
Stiffener required or increase column size.

Where lb = length of bearing = 1.0 in.

3. Web Crippling ( = 0.75): Top Plate in compression

Not required for the load case given due to tension in the top chord.

4. Web Compression Buckling ( = 0.9): Top Plate in compression

Not required for the load case given due to tension in the top chord.
5. Web Panel Zone Shear ( = 0.9)
Not required for the load case given due to equal and opposite forces.
C. Column Web Shear:

For the loading condition provided no column shear exists.

D. Stiffened Seat Design:

Determine if the stiffener length will fit above the stabilizer plate. The maximum length
of the stiffener equals: The Joist Girder depth – the seat height – the stiffener cap
thickness – ½ the stabilizer height – 6.0 in. erection clearance.

Lmax = 48 – 7.5 - 0.75 – 4 – 6.0 = 29.75 in. (stiffener cap estimated as 0.75 in.)

Design the stiffened seat for the 100 kip vertical reaction.

1. Minimum stiffener thickness = 0.5 in.

2. Local buckling of the stiffener: For W = 5 in., tmin = W/16 =0.3125 in. (5/16) in.

Try ½ in. stiffener

3. Bearing Strength:

Rn = 0.75 1.8Fy Apb = 0.75 1.8 36  4 0.5  = 97.2 kips  100 kips o.k.

Use ½ in. stiffener

4. Eccentric loading on the stiffener:

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 Pu  6e s -2Ws  100 6  3.0  - 2  5 
ts ≥ = = 0.658 ≤ 0.50 N.G.

 1.8Fy Ws2 0.75 1.8  36  52
Use 3/4 in. stiffener

5. Weld Strength Requirement for the Seat Plate: b b

Try: Wp = 10 in, L =10, Weld = 5/16 in.

P = 100 kips d
es = 3.0 in.
4bd + d2 3 A = 2 b + d in2
Sx = in
3
b = (10 – 0.75 – 0.3125)/2 = 4.47 in., d = 10 – 0.3125/2 = 9.84 in.
4bd  d 2
Sx   90.9 in3 A  2 b  d   28.6 in2
3

 100  3.0    100  

2 2 2 2
 Pe   P 
Ru   s           4.81 kips/in.
 Sx   A   90.9   28.6 
   

R = (0.75)(0.6)(70)(0.707)(D/16) = 1.39(5) = 6.95 kips/in.

4.81 ≤ 6.95 ok

Use 5/16 in. fillet weld

6. Minimum Stiffener Thickness:

1.39D kips / in ≤  0.75  0.6  t stFu kips / in.

6.19D  6.19  5 
t st = = = 0.53 in.
Fu  58 
Use 3/4 in. stiffener

7. Determine the seat plate thickness, tp, based on plate shear.

Pu 100
tp = = = 0.58 in.

  2 N 0.6Fy  1.0  2  4 0.6 36 

where,  = 1.0 and N = 4 in.

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 Use 5/8 in. Seat Plate

For an uplift condition, use N based on an effective width of plate determined by

using a 45 degree projection from the bolt line to the face of the stiffener.

8. Check the stiffener for shear yielding.

Pu 100
ts ≥ = = 0.462 in. ≤ 3 / 4 ok
 
 0.6Fy L  1.0  0.6 36 10 

9. Minimum Fillet Weld Size (AISC Specification Table J2.4) = 1/4 in.

10. Check Minimum Flange Thickness to Match Weld Strength

6.19D 6.19  5 
tmin == = 0.53 ≤ 0.77 ok
Fu 58
E. Column Web Checks at Bottom Chord:

1. Web Local Yielding ( = 1.0):

Rn = Fyw t w  5k +lb 

Rn = 1.0  50  0.48   5 1.17  +  8  = 332 kips > 262 kips ok

2. Web Crippling ( = 0.75):

  lb   t w   EFyw t f
1.5

Rn = 0.80 t 1+ 3     

2
w

  d   t f   tw

2  8   0.48    29000  50  0.77 

1.5

Rn = 0.80  0.48  1+ 3     = 462 kips

  18.4   0.77   0.48
Rn = (0.75)(462) = 346 kips > 262 kips ok

3. Web Compression Buckling ( = 0.9):

24  0.48  29000 50 

3
24 t3w EFyw
Rn = = = 199 kips AISC J10-8
h 16.06

where, h = d - 2k = 18.4 – (2)(1.17) = 16.06 in.

Rn = (0.9)(199) = 179 < 262 kips N.G.

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 Stiffener required, or try a W18x97

tw = 0.535 in. h = 18.6 – (2)(1.27) = 16.06 in.

24  0.535  2900050 
3
24 t3w EFyw
Rn = = = 276 kips
h 16.06

Rn = (0.9)(276) = 248 < 262 kips N.G.

Use a Stiffener, or a W18x106 (by inspection)

F. Bottom Chord Checks:

1. Determine the weld between the bottom chord and the stabilizer

Try 5/16 in. fillet welds: Rn = (1.392)(5) = 6.96 kips/ in.
Required length = 262/6.96 = 37.6 in.

Use 4-5/16 in. fillet welds 10 in. long

The Specifying Professional must request that the Joist Girder bottom chords be a
minimum of 3/8 in. thickness to accommodate the required weld size. The Joist
Girder Manufacturer is responsible for the shear lag check of the bottom chord
angles based on the weld length used.

2. Check the Whitmore width for stabilizer:

Assuming the bottom chord weld starts at the end of the stabilizer the
Whitmore length equals (2)(tan30o)(10) = 11.5 in. plus the bottom chord leg
length. Thus the Whitmore length = 11.5 + 4 = 15.5 in. > 8 in. ok

Effective width = 8.0 in.

3. Check stabilizer yielding ( =0.90)

Rn = tshsFy

Where: ts = stabilizer thickness, hs = stabilizer effective width

Rn = (0.9)(3/4)(8)(50) = 270 kips > 262 kips ok.

4. Check stabilizer Block Shear Rupture Strength ( = 0.75)

Block Shear Plane 1:

Rn = 0.60FuAnv + UbsFuAnt ≤ 0.60FyAgv + UbsFuAnt

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 Anv = Agv = (2)(10)(0.75) = 15 in.2

Ant = (4)(0.75) = 3.0 in.2

Rn = (0.60)(65)(15)+(1.0)(65)(3.0) ≤(0.6)(50)(15)+(1.0)(65)(3.0) =

780 ≥ 645 kips, Rn =645 kips

Block Shear Plane 2:

Anv = Agv = (10)(0.75) = 7.5 in.2

Ant = (6)(0.75) = 4.5 in.

Rn = (0.60)(65)(7.5)+(1.0)(65)(4.5) ≤(0.6)(50)(7.5)+(1.0)(65)(4.5) =

585 ≥ 517.5 kips, Rn =517.5 kips

Rn = (0.75)(517.5) = 388 ≥ 262 kips ok.

5. Determine the weld between the stabilizer and the column

The weld force per inch equals 262/16 = 16.4 kips/in.

Try 1/2 in. fillet welds: Rn = (1.5)4(1.392)(8) = 16.7 kips/ in. > 16.4 kips ok
4
Weld Strength Directionality Increase Used

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PROGRAM USAGE GUIDE
Joist Girder Moment Connections to the Strong Axis of Wide Flange
Columns- Intermediate Levels

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 v14.
 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 Joist Girder 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.
 ASIC Database v14 – 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- 10, “Specification for Structural Steel Buildings”.
4. The Steel Joist Institute’s “Standard Specification for Joist Girders”, 2010.
5. Frame analysis results, such as Joist Girder end reactions, connection moments,
and column axial loads.

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First read the General Information Tab and the Formatting Tab.

Print out the diagrams: Sidewall W Column Diagram and the 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 a 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

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

1. First determining the chord force in the Joist Girder. If modelled as a beam the
chord force is obtained by dividing the end moment of the Joist Girder by the
effective depth (Joist Girder depth – ½ of the chord angle size).
2. Then adding any additional axial chord load.
3. The plate thickness is determined by dividing the chord force by the desired
width of the top plate and Fy (LRFD) or 0.6Fy (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 Fy
(LRFD) or 0.6Fy (ASD). The stabilizer width must be a minimum of the chord angle leg
size plus the weld shelf dimensions.

Seat Connection:
Determining the maximum length of the stiffener eliminates checking during the design
process. The maximum Stiffener Length (L s) is approximately equal to the Joist Girder
depth minus the (Joist Girder seat depth + seat plate thickness + 1/2 the stabilizer plate
width + 6.0 in. erection 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.
The Seat Plate Thickness (t p) can be estimated at 1 in. for this calculation.

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 of 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.

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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 frame analysis.

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: Applies to the Bearing Seat Length (N) and
Bearing Seat Width (W s). The 2010 SJI Specifications, Section 1004.4(b), indicate
that, the minimum bearing length is 4 inches, and the 2010 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" for Joist Girders weighing more
than 50 pounds per foot, and that the Bearing Seat Width be 9" for Joist Girders
weighing less than 50 pounds per foot and be 13" 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 exceed column flange width:

The Seat Plate Width (W p) should not extend beyond the column flange.

(3) Not to encroach on stabilizer:

The Stiffener Length (L s) cannot encroach on the stabilizer plate. This must be
manually checked. For example for a Joist Girder seat of 7.5 in., the maximum length
would be approximately equal to the Joist Girder Depth – 7.5 in. – the Seat Plate
Thickness – ½ of the Stabilizer Plate Width – 6.0 in. erection clearance.

(4) 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
plus 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.

(5) Includes Joist Girder end reactions:

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The Column Axial Load, Pu (LRFD) or Pa (ASD), is to include the end reaction(s) of the
Joist Girder(s).

(6) The story shear.

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. You can then make any necessary input changes.

PRELIMINARY SIZING EXAMPLE:

For a 48G8N18F Joist Girder spanning 40 ft., with an end moment of 500 kip-ft. and an
end reaction of 100 kips estimate the chord size.

Assume a bottom chord width (B bc) of 4 in. , Pchord = (12)(500)/(48-2) = 130 kips
From TD 11 Table 2-1 (LRFD), Fy = 50 ksi, = 0.90):

Unbraced Length Area

Angle Size
L = 5 ft. in.2
2L 4 x 4 x 3/4 406 10.9
2L 4 x 4 x 5/8 345 9.21
2L 4 x 4 x 1/2 281 7.49
2L 4 x 4 x 7/16 249 6.61
2L 4 x 4 x 3/8 211 5.71
2L 4 x 4 x 5/16 143 4.80
2L 4 x 4 x 1/4 92 3.87
2L 3-1/2 x 3-1/2 x 1/2 231 6.53
2L 3-1/2 x 3-1/2 x 7/16 205 5.77
2L 3-1/2 x 3-1/2 x 3/8 178 5.50
2L 3-1/2 x 3-1/2 x 5/16 139 4.21
2L 3-1/2 x 3-1/2 x 1/4 92 3.41

The table yields a chord angle size of 3 ½ x 3 ½ x 5/16.

Estimate the Joist Girder weight: From the SJI Catalog 47 plf.

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From the chord size, the Joist Girder weight = (2.5)(3.4)(4.21) = 36 plf
So conservatively assume the Joist Girder weight = 47 plf

Estimate the STIFFENED SEAT CONNECTION dimensions based on SJI standards:

Weight = 47 plf; therefore, the Seat Plate Width (W p) = 9 in. The Stiffener Width (W s) =
5 in. to accommodate an erection clearance and backer bar length of 1.0 in., and a Joist
Girder bearing length (N) of 4 in. Assuming a 5/16 in. fillet weld is used to attach the
Top Plate, a 9/16 in. weld self-dimension is required. Use A36 material for the plate.

Preliminary Top Plate size: W tp = 1+2(3.5-9/16) = 6.88 in. maximum width

Try W tp = 6 in.

t tp = (133)/[(6)(0.9)(36)] = 0.68, Use 3/4 in.

Preliminary Stabilizer Plate size: t st = 3/4 in. for a 1 in. gap between chords

W st = (133)/[(0.75)(0.9)(36)] ≥ [3.5+(2)(9/16)]
= 5.47 ≥ 4.63, Use a 6 in. plate

Determine the Maximum Stiffener Length (L s) for the Stiffened Seat Connection:

For a 1 in. seat plate thickness:

Ls = 48 - (7.5+1 + 6/2 + 6) = 30.5 in so maximum stiffener length is 30 in.

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