Development of an HSFG Bolt Quantity & Capacity Calculator for I-Beam Splice Joint for E250 & E350 Comparison

Chapter 3

Abstract
Steel structures frequently utilize bolted splice connections to join
structural members where transportation limitations or erection
procedures require segmented construction. High Strength Friction
Grip (HSFG) bolts are widely used in such connections due to their
ability to transfer loads through friction between plates, providing
improved structural reliability and slip resistance. Designing HSFG
bolted splice joints requires numerous calculations involving bolt
shear strength, slip resistance, and determination of the required
number of bolts. Manual design calculations are time-consuming and
prone to error. This study presents the development of an calculator
that automates the computation of HSFG bolt capacity and required
bolt quantity for I-beam splice joints. The developed calculator
incorporates the design provisions of IS 800:2007 and allows
comparison of structural steel grades E250 and E350. The tool
enables engineers to quickly evaluate bolt capacity, slip resistance,
and required bolt quantity for different design parameters. The
results show that the developed tool significantly reduces calculation
time while maintaining accuracy and transparency in the design
process.
Keywords: HSFG bolts; I-beam splice joint; bolt capacity; Excel
calculator; E250 steel; E350 steel.