Design of Wrap-Around Gusset Plates

This paper addressed the design of wrap-around gusset plates, which are commonly used where a horizontal brace connects at a beam-to-column intersection. Wrap-around gusset plates must be cut around the column, which can lead to high flexural stresses near the reentrant corner. A rational design method was developed in this paper, based on the results of 15 experimental tests and the corresponding finite element models. The design method, which models the gusset legs as rectangular beams, considers the strength of each leg independently. Because the buckled shapes included both out-of-plane translation and twisting along the leg, the stability behavior is evaluated using a lateral-torsional buckling model according to AISC Specification Section F11. Based on the buckled shape of the specimens and finite element models, design buckling lengths are recommended. Information is also included for calculating the strength of wrap-around gusset plates with the interior corner cut on a diagonal. Three examples are provided to illustrate the proposed design procedure.