Causes of Shifting WF and How to Prevent It

During the erection phase of steel structures, temporary stability is a crucial factor. One common problem in the field is the shifting of the Wide Flange (WF) during erection. If not addressed promptly, this shift can impact installation accuracy, connection quality, and overall structural stability.

So, what causes WF to shift during erection, and how can it be prevented? Here's an explanation.

Causes of Wide Flange Shifting During Erection
1. Inaccurate Support and Base Plate
WFs installed on uneven or off-center base plates or column supports will be difficult to stabilize from the start of erection.

The impact is:

• WFs easily shift when loaded
• Position not according to the working drawings

2. Inadequate Temporary Locking
During the erection phase, WFs should be temporarily locked using:

• Temporary bolts
• Clamps
• Temporary bracing

Without adequate locking, WFs will easily shift due to vibrations or workloads in the field.

3. Temporary Bracing Not Installed
Temporary bracing maintains the lateral stability of the WF during erection. Without bracing:

• WF is prone to shifting
• Structure is easily shaken
• Risk of work accidents increases

4. Effect of Temporary Loads and Field Activities
Activities such as:

• Heavy equipment movement
• Strong winds
• Vibration from other installation processes

can cause WFs that are not yet fully secured to shift from their positions.

5. Incorrect Erection Sequence
An erection sequence that does not comply with work methods can cause:

• Unbalanced loads
• WFs receive forces before the structure is ready
• This makes the WF prone to shifting.

How to Prevent WF Shifting During Erection
1. Ensure Accurate Supports and Base Plate
Before erection:

• Check the elevation and alignment of the base plate
• Ensure the anchor bolt positions match the working drawings
• Initial accuracy is crucial for WF stability.

2. Use Sufficient Temporary Bracing
Always use:

• Minimum number of temporary bolts
• Clamps or stoppers if needed
• This bracing is temporary, but crucial.

3. Install Temporary Bracing Early
Bracing should not be delayed. Install bracing:

• Immediately after the WF is erected
• Before proceeding with the installation of other elements
• Bracing holds the WF in the design position.

4. Follow the Correct Erection Method and Sequence
The erection method must:

• Follow the engineering plan
• Be adapted to site conditions
• Be understood by the entire erector team

The correct sequence helps maintain the balance of the structure.

5. Conduct Regular Position Checks
Use measuring tools such as:

• Waterpass
• Theodolite
• Measuring tape and measuring tape
• Regular checks help detect shifts early.

Conclusion
WFs that shift during erection can cause:

• Permanent positioning errors
• Imprecise connections
• Decreased structural stability

With proper support preparation, temporary locking and bracing, and correct erection methods, the risk of WF shifting can be significantly minimized.

Use Quality, Ready-to-Erection WF Steel
PT Intisumber Bajasakti provides quality WF steel, meeting SNI standards, with complete specifications to support a safe and precise erection process.

📞 Phone: 021-66675999
🌐 Web: intisumberbajasakti.com
✉️ Email: info@intisumberbajasakti.com

👉 Contact our team now for a consultation on your WF steel needs and the best structural material solutions for your project.

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