HSS Insider – Dec. 2024 – Viable Alternatives to CJP Welds

December 2024 | Issue #31

Are you overspecifying CJP welds for HSS Connections? In this issue of HSS Insider, discover how fillet and fillet-reinforced PJP welds deliver full-strength welded connections as a viable alternative to CJP welds, reducing complexity, and cost. In addition, learn how to use STI’s HSS Connex and check out STI’s Tube Tool!

Full-Capacity Welds: CJP vs. Fillet vs. Fillet-Reinforced PJP

It’s easy to default to CJP welds, but there are often simpler, more cost-effective full-strength alternatives.  Dr. Packer provides a comprehensive comparison of fillet, fillet-reinforced PJP, and CJP welds, providing practical insights and a design example to help you design full-strength welds while reducing complexity and cost.  

Master HSS Connex in Minutes – Watch Now!

Fast-track your learning with this short video guiding you through STI’s HSS Connex, our free web-based tool that offers designers a simple way to check HSS wall thicknesses to aid in efficient HSS connection design. Check local limit state checks to ensure HSS wall thicknesses are adequate at connections.

Related Resources

New! HSS Tube Tool

Keep this essential resource for HSS design and fabrication at your fingertips. This durable tri-fold is packed with key information, including material standards, code requirements, manufacturing practices, sample calculations and helpful visuals.

Webinars On Demand: Know Your HSS Welds

Demystify HSS welding complexities with STI’s recorded webinar. Explore the unique design, detailing and fabrication considerations for HSS sections. This session will also compare the suitability of CJP vs. PJP welds in HSS sections and review welding positions and qualifications. You can also earn 1.0 PDHs by purchasing and passing a 10-question quiz.

HSS Effective Weld Length Calculator

Calculate the effective weld length for connections to HSS columns and chords, taking into account the nonuniform loading of the branch weld perimeter on the HSS chord face. Connections include transverse plate T- and cross-connections; rectangular and round HSS T-, Y- and cross-connections; and overlapped and gapped K-connections. This calculator is available with the HSS Professional Membership.

Expert Tips for Cost-Effective HSS Specification and Fabrication

HSS are an increasingly popular choice in structural steel design. They offer superior strength-to-weight ratios, and their smooth and uniform appearance makes them an attractive option for architectural applications. However, when appropriate considerations are not taken, fabrication can be challenging and expensive. Read this article for insights on cost savings with HSS, including our comparison of the relative cost of WF to HSS connection types.

CJP HSS Welds: Be Informed Before You Specify

This article further highlights the reasons why CJP welds should be a last resort and provides guidance on choosing the most effective and economical welds for HSS connections.