Solder weep holes in galvanized structural steel.

Date 02-08-2012 16:23

Hello everyone, I'm the QA manager in a structural steel shop and I've run into one of those situations I've never had to deal with before and would like a little advise from experienced people.

We have a few hot dip galvanized columns with weep holes in both ends. Because of the application the hole in the cap plate must be sealed, but not necessarily welded. Would it make sense to seal these with solder and if so does anyone have any suggestions on the type and process to be used. I have almost no experience with solder.

Thanks in advance for the help.

By 357max

Date 02-08-2012 16:31

What is the diameter of the weep hole? If it is small enough you could hammer in a lead rod. ie if the hole is .250" use a lead rod/wire a few thousands larger. just swage it.

By 625552

Date 02-08-2012 16:55 Edited 02-08-2012 16:59

The hole is 1/2". Based on your experience, do you think this would give us a good seal? Our customers concern with the hole being in the cap plate is that over time water could wash stuff out of the column and onto the roof, causing stains.

By jwright650 (*****)

Date 02-08-2012 17:17

We drill our weep holes 15/16" to control the size of the hole...then after galvanizing, we drive in a soft aluminum, tapered plug designed to fit a 15/16" hole.

There is an outfit in Oregon where we purchased these tapered plugs from. EDIT: they make plugs for all sizes....

By jwright650 (*****)

Date 02-08-2012 17:21

Quick search of the forum...I found the info, that I was talking about:
Check here: http://www.aws.org/cgi-bin/mwf/topic_show.pl?pid=198622;hl=aluminum%20plugs

By 625552

Date 02-08-2012 17:41

All good information,, thanks guys.