What does a steel connection design include?
A steel connection design checks how members join and transfer load: bolts, welds, end plates, cleats, base plates and anchors, with stamped calculations and connection details on the drawings.
The short answer
Connections are often where steel structures fail if they are not designed. The engineer calculates the forces at each joint, sizes the bolts, welds and plates, checks base plates and anchors into concrete, and shows each connection in detail on the drawings for fabrication and approval.
What you need to know
- Bolted connections: Bolt size, grade and number.
- Welded connections: Weld size and length.
- Base plates: Plate thickness and anchors into concrete.
- Details: Drawings for fabrication and approval.
Documents you will need
- Steel layout drawings
- Member sizes
- Loads or equipment details
Who does what
Step by step
We confirm the exact route for your property.
| Step | Approval route | Guides |
|---|---|---|
| Forces Structural Solutions | Forces at each joint. | — |
| Design Structural Solutions | Bolts, welds and plates sized. | Steel connection design |
| Details Structural Solutions | Connection drawings stamped. | — |
Questions
Related questions
Are connections part of the approval?
Yes, the calculations should include them.
Can the fabricator design the connections?
They must be designed and stamped by the engineer.
What standards apply?
The steel code used, such as Eurocode 3, BS 5950 or AISC.
Do base plates need checking?
Yes, including the anchors into concrete.
What does Structural Solutions do?
Our engineers prepare and stamp the calculations and drawings, and handle the NOC, permit and completion as approved consultant.
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