Recommended Citation
Ebert, A., Connor, R. J., & Kieffer, C., III. (2024). Fatigue strength and ductility of steel plates with holes made from plasma cutting methods (Joint Transportation Research Program Publication No. FHWA/IN/JTRP-2024/26). West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University. https://doi.org/10.5703/1288284317767
DOI
10.5703/1288284317767
Abstract
A literature review was conducted to evaluate current standards and existing research around the use of plasma arc cutting for holes (PACH) in the context of steel bridge applications. Additionally, an investigation into the state of the practice was conducted to determine if the latest technological advancements and equipment capabilities for plasma cutting could prove PACH to be an acceptable hole making process for bridge applications. Much of the existing research focuses on drilling and punching to make holes, but very limited experimental studies and data exists specifically evaluating plasma arc cutting. The most comprehensive study, including PACH, is discussed more thoroughly. Although limited, the findings from the existing research and the state of the practice are promising and suggest that plasma arc cutting may be acceptable as a hole making technique. To conclusively determine if such is the case, the research team recommends further experimental large-scale studies testing fatigue and strength at low temperatures.
Report Number
HWA/IN/JTRP-2024/26
Keywords
plasma arc cut holes, plasma cutting methods, thermally cut holes, CNC programming, bolt connections, AASHTO, guide specifications, redundancy, Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), steel bridge fabrication, ductility of steel plates, fatigue detail category
SPR Number
4841
Performing Organization
Joint Transportation Research Program
Sponsoring Organization
Indiana Department of Transportation
Publisher Place
West Lafayette, Indiana
Date of this Version
2024