Effect of Hole-Making on the Strength of Double Lap Joints

Engineers familiar with structural steel and the available fabricating operations have expressed concern over the effect various hole-forming methods have on the ultimate strength of bolted connections, in particular, the use of flame-cutting. In response to these concerns, AISC had conducted tests comparing the performance of connections with holes made by six commonly used methods. The intent of the comparison is to determine whether a need exists to restrict the use of specific hole-making methods and whether connections using holes made with particular methods have any structural advantages. This portion of the study addresses only standard holes subjected to gradually applied loads and compares different hole-forming methods.