SWC fabricates most all gusset plates from A36 plate. These are typically flat, 2-dimensional shapes, cut to conform with truss members. Typical plates are 1/4” thick, but larger trusses may require 3/8”, 1/2” or larger plate, which we can supply. Plates are cut on a computer-controlled plasma cutter operating from CAD files of the components. Many times we supply 3-dimensional fabrications by bending plate on an iron worker, or by utilizing our certified welder to join components together. Examples of more complex attachment hardware are head plates with attachment tabs for ridge beams, custom-designed saddles for attachment of trusses to support beams and specialty brackets for attaching trusses or other timber members to a building’s steel structure.
Plate is most frequently painted with a general purpose alkyd-based, black paint. Galvanized gusset plates and fabrications can be supplied for exterior applications at the customer’s request. The galvanized finish can be left as-is or over-coated with the standard black paint described above. Powder coating in a variety of colors and finishes is also available. If special circumstances require it, higher strength or stainless steel plate can be supplied.
