Bolted Splice Connection Calculator
The SkyCiv Bolted Splice Connection Calculator allows you to calculate the utility ratios and capacities required in the design of bolted splice-based connections. Bolted splice connections are used to connect structural members in a range of structural applications where strong connections between members are required. These types of connections are generally used when members need to be connected during the erection of a structure. These capacities are calculated based on the depths, widths & thicknesses of splice plates, flange plates, steel material properties, section dimensions, and related design loads. The capacities calculated include maximum moment capacity, maximum shear capacity, and maximum axial capacity. This tool uses the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) code.
About the Bolted Splice Connection Calculator
What is a Bolted Splice Connection?
A bolted splice connection is a method of joining two structural members together. This type of connection is designed to transfer the forces from one member (generally with an I-shaped cross-section) to another member. Bolted splice connections make use of a web plate and flange plate that is connected using bolts to achieve the attachment. Bolted splice connections are strong, flexible, and easily dismantlable making them a popular means for connecting flange and web splices.
What Components Make up this Connection?
The components that make up a bolted splice connection generally include plates for both the top and bottom flange, web plates, and bolts for connecting these plates. These components are used to connect the two members in a splice connection.
Where are Bolted Splices Commonly Used?
The bolted splice connection is commonly used in a range of structural applications where strong connections between members are required. These include common uses in structures such as equipment support structures, industrial frames, and pipe racks. More niche use cases can include railway, automotive and mechanical solutions, as well as mining and power transmission use cases. However, bolted splice connections can be used anywhere where two members are required to join to become a single member.
What Alternatives Exist to Using Bolted Splice Connections?
Bolted splicing is generally used when members need to be connected during the erection of a structure. If a bolted splice connection is not appropriate or members are connected during manufacture ("in shop") the alternatives like a welded splice can be considered as an alternative to a bolted spice.
How to use the Bolted Splice Connection Calculator?
To get started with the SkyCiv Bolted Splice Connection Calculator you need to have information including the details of the:
- Yield and Ultimate Strength for the Section Steel.
- Dimensions of the I Beam Section.
- Yield and Ultimate Strength of the Splice Plate Steel.
- Dimensions of the Flange Plate.
- Dimensions of the Web Plate.
- Details of the Bolts Used and Bolt Configuration.
- Design Loads (Moment, Shear, and Axial).
After entering all these details simply click the run button and the software will do all the calculations for you. Results are provided as both utility ratios and capacities. Detailed calculations are included in the report.
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Calculator FAQs
The Bolted Splice Connection Calculator supports W-type sections. The splicing type is bolted using Single Flange PLT and Web PLT on either side of the web.
This calculator uses the AISC 360-16 LRFD design code.
- The splicing type is bolted flange and web splices.
- Flexural yield capacity is calculated by ignoring section slenderness.
- Only bolted connection types are supported.
- The unit system is metric.
- Only splices for W-type sections are available for design.
The calculator considers fully bolted splices i.e. single flange plate at each of the top and bottom flange along with the web splice plate on either side of the web. No welding or combinations of bolt and weld is considered. The calculator does not have an option for end plate splice. For powerful and advanced connection design check out our Steel Connection Design Software.
