Gusset plate
A gusset plate is an element of steel construction for connecting individual beams made of steel profiles . Gusset plates are considered to be the points of articulation of a structure , especially in the case of a framework .
A gusset plate is made from a piece of sheet steel with holes to accommodate rivets or screws . The thickness of the sheet can be up to a few centimeters, depending on the type of structure. In welded constructions, gusset plates prevent weld seams from accumulating at one point. The result is a better flow of forces along with a higher fatigue strength. In the case of tubular frames (e.g. motorcycle frames ) , gusset plates can be used to stiffen particularly stressed connection points, for example on the steering head .
In car body construction, profile-forming sheet metal parts are called gusset plates, which represent the transitions in the nodes (A / B / C / D-pillars). The characteristic is the meeting of several profile cross-sections from at least two coordinate directions. Clearly recognizable are i. d. The gusset plates in the upper node of the rear pillars (C or D pillar).
The most important function of a gusset plate in a structure is that a gusset plate ensures that the gravity lines of the structure profiles meet with pinpoint accuracy. The points of intersection of the center of gravity are also known as nodes.
