Strong Frame® Special Moment Frames

Inspection Requirements

Since the entire Simpson Strong-Tie Strong Frame special moment frame is designed to be field bolted, no field welding is required. Welding for the frames is performed on the premises of a fabricator registered and approved in accordance with 2015/ 2018 IBC Section 1704.2.5. Special inspections prescribed in IBC Section 1704 are not required for approved fabricators. Nevertheless, all Strong Frame special moment frames are inspected by a certified welding inspector. Inspection is also provided for the pretensioned bolts between the Yield-Link® stem-to-beam flange connections on top of the code inspection requirements. Welding and bolting inspection documents as well as bolt preinstallation testing records can be obtained from Simpson Strong-Tie at the request of the project designer or by scanning the QR code on the frame at the jobsite.

Even though the Strong Frame can be field bolted and all field bolting is specified as snug tight, the latest IBC code references AISC 360 and AISC 341 for bolting inspection requirements. AISC requires inspection prior to, during and after bolting similar to welding inspections, although not much is required during snug-tight bolt installation. In addition to field-bolting inspection, different building jurisdictions might have base plate grouting inspection requirements. Please consult with your project building jurisdiction about this requirement.

In addition to welding, structural ASTM A325 as well as F2280 twist-off type high-strength bolts are lot tested and stored under requirements of the Research Council on Structural Connections (RCSC). Bolting of the SMF Yield-Link® structural fuse to the beam flanges (ASTM 3125 Grade F2280 [A490-TC] Bolts) are documented.

Special Moment Frame QR Code Label