New Approach to the Pipe-to-Gusset Plate Connection

Pipe-to-gusset plate connections on ship-to-shore cranes have frequently experienced fatigue cracking, and some common designs can be difficult to inspect unless the cracks are quite large. In this paper, Kenton Lee introduces a new approach that significantly increases reliability. The key is a removable and resealable seal plate, attached without welding, that improves access to the connection for periodic inspection and repair.