Question

Splices are provided when_________

(a) available length is more than required length of a tension member

(b) available length is less than required length of a tension member

(c) available length is equal to required length of a tension member

(d) for aesthetic appearance

This question was addressed to me in an international level competition.

This interesting question is from Lug Angles, Splices & Gusset Plates in portion Design of Tension Members of Design of Steel Structures

Answer 1

Right option is (b) available length is less than required length of a tension member

The best explanation: Splices are provided when the available length is less than required length of a tension member.  Splices in tension members are used to join sections when a joint is to be provided that is these replace the members at the joint where it is cut. If the sections to spliced are not of same thickness, then packing plates are introduced.