Problem: Inadequate Support - Support Beam/Girder Sags 1
Cause:
Inadequate beam support.
Solutions:
Ensure adequate bearing area for beams/girders. Ensure beams/girders bear evenly on the support
At least 3 1/2″ (89 mm) of the beam/girder must bear evenly on the support or column. Where individual plys of built-up beams/girders butt over a centre post, each ply must have at least 3 1/2″ (89 mm) of bearing as shown in Figure 11.
Figure 11 - Proper Bearing On Beam Supports
Make sure that columns are centered on their footings. When columns are not placed in the center of the footings the offset loading could cause the column footing to move, thereby causing movement in the column and the beam/girder.
Make sure that the top bearing plates for steel columns are as wide as the beam/girder they support. They must be wide enough to give stability to the connection and to prevent the beam/girder from being crushed by the bearing plate.
Bearing plates must be secured to the beam. It is a common mistake to have the beam/girder rest on the column rather than being fastened through the supports bearing plate.
Use metal shims to support beam/girder ends in beam pockets where required.
