Question

Stiffeners are _____ shorter than the exposed portion of the web so that they do not force the upper flange out of position?

1) Always
2) Slightly
3) Significantly
4) d) Not at all

Answer 1

Stiffeners should be slightly shorter than the exposed portion of the web to prevent displacing the upper flange. This is standard practice in engineering to ensure the structural integrity of the girder or column where they are used.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stiffeners in engineering are used to strengthen and prevent buckling of the web in a plate girder or similar structure. According to standard engineering practices, stiffeners should be slightly shorter than the exposed portion of the web.

This ensures that they do not force the upper flange out of position when welded into place. The correct answer to the student's question is that stiffeners are slightly shorter than the exposed portion of the web to avoid misalignment of the flange.