Suggested Design Guides for Beams with Web Holes

Because beams with web holes are being used increasingly in buildings, the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) is considering including provisions for such beams in a future addition to its Specifications for the Design, Fabrication, and Erection of Structural Steel for Buildings. To aid in preparing this addition, the ASCE Committee on Beams with Web Openings has prepared a list of suggestions which are presented herein. The paper first considers the applicability of both the allowable-stress design and plastic design parts of the AISC specification to beams with web holes are required. This paper presents material that is believed to be accurate and reliable for design purposes. However, this material should not be used for any specific application without independent examination and verification of its suitability for such application. ASCE disclaims any warranties regarding this report and anyone making use thereof assumes all risk and liability arising from such use.