Page 394 - Forensic Structural Engineering Handbook

STEEL STRUCTURES 11.25

FIGURE 11.10 Tension member failure showing net section fracture and bolt
shear failure.

where F EXX is the electrode classification number (minimum specified strength in pounds
per square inch) and θ is the angle of loading measured from the longitudinal axis in
degrees. Hence, when the load is parallel to the weld, the capacity is 0.6F EXX , and when it
is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, it increases to 0.9F EXX . Discontinuities such as
porosity and slag seldom cause a significant loss of static strength. On the other hand, lack
of fusion or cracks can have a major impact on strength and can result in joint failure at
loads below the design load. This will depend on the size of the discontinuity or defect and
its orientation to the applied loads.

Fatigue and Fracture Design
Fatigue and fracture are often closely related phenomena as both involve cracking. Fracture
control involves material fracture toughness, controlling crack extension usually by considering