Bolted Gusset Plate Code Check [SIG]

General

Load Combination Table: The load combination table is used to map the analysis result cases and their corresponding factors to the template, along with the limit states. It serves as the basis for all finite element analysis results used in the code check equations.

Ignore the moment of the Bolt COG [Yes/No]: This parameter is used to ignore the moment about the bolt's center of gravity (COG).

Design basis for the gusset plate [Truss Gusset (6.14.2.8)/Connection Element (6.13.5)]: Selects the AASHTO provision the gusset plate is designed against.

• Truss Gusset (6.14.2.8) — the default. The plate is treated as a truss gusset plate per Article 6.14.2.8. Shear yielding uses Eq. 6.14.2.8.3-1 with the shear reduction factor Ω = 0.88 and φ_vy = 0.80, and the minimum plate thickness follows the 0.375 in. requirement for gusset plates used in trusses (Article 6.7.3).
• Connection Element (6.13.5) — the plate is treated as a general connection element per Article 6.13.5. Shear yielding uses Eq. 6.13.5.3-1 (φ_v = 1.00, no Ω factor), and the minimum plate thickness requirement drops to 0.3125 in.

The two options differ in exactly two checks: shear yielding (the truss basis applies Ω = 0.88 and φ_vy = 0.80, giving a lower resistance; the connection basis omits Ω and uses φ_v = 1.00) and the minimum plate thickness limit (0.375 in. vs 0.3125 in.). All other checks — shear rupture, tensile yielding/fracture, block shear rupture, compressive resistance (Whitmore section per 6.14.2.8.4), edge slenderness, and all bolt checks — are unchanged by this selection. Use Connection Element (6.13.5) for gusset plates that are not part of a truss (for example, cross-frame connection plates), where the Ω = 0.88 truss shear-reduction factor is not applicable.