Steel Interchange

Thermal Cutting

Is it now permissible to use plasma or flame cutting methods to make bolt holes?

Question sent to AISC's Steel Solution Center

Answer

Although previous specifications limited the methods that can be used, the 2005 AISC specification, Section M2.5, allows the use of any hole-making method that results in a surface roughness not exceeding 1,000 microinches. Most methods can be used to achieve this, including punching, drilling, and thermal cutting with flame and plasma equipment.

Charlie Carter, S.E., P.E.
American Institute of Steel Construction