Notes on the Impact of Hole Reduction on the Flexural Strength of Rolled Beams

The use of phi (resistance factor) = 0.9 and omega (safety factor) = 1.67 with the provisions in Section F13.1 of AISC 360-05 (AISC, 2005) to account for the reduction in flexural strength for a beam with holes in the tension flange has been questioned several times since the publication of the Specification for Structural Steel Buildings in 2005. The intent of this paper is to review and provide justification for the use of the resistance/safety factors within the 2005 Specification provisions for the impact on flexural strength of holes in the tension flange.