A steel beam connection requires 8 bolts, each with a shear capacity of 12 kips. If the safety factor is 2.5, what is the maximum working load for this connection?
Correct Answer
D) 38.4 kips
Total capacity = 8 bolts × 12 kips = 96 kips. Working load = 96 kips ÷ 2.5 safety factor = 38.4 kips. The safety factor reduces the allowable working load to ensure structural safety.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
The correct answer is A (38.4 kips) because it properly applies the safety factor to determine the allowable working load. First, calculate the total ultimate capacity by multiplying the number of bolts (8) by each bolt's shear capacity (12 kips) to get 96 kips. Then divide this ultimate capacity by the safety factor (2.5) to find the maximum allowable working load: 96 ÷ 2.5 = 38.4 kips. The safety factor ensures the connection operates well below its failure point for structural safety.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: 240 kips
This answer (240 kips) incorrectly multiplies the total capacity by the safety factor (96 × 2.5) instead of dividing by it, which is the opposite of how safety factors work.
Option C: 96 kips
This answer (96 kips) represents the total ultimate capacity without applying any safety factor, which would be extremely dangerous and violates all structural design principles.
Memory Technique
Remember 'Safety Shrinks' - safety factors always make allowable loads smaller by dividing, not multiplying
Reference Hint
Look up steel connection design and bolt capacity tables in the AISC Steel Construction Manual or structural engineering sections of building codes
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