The design strength and allowable stresses for prismatic built-up members subjected to axial tension by static forces are the same as for tension members given in Art. 6.13. Components of a built-up tension member should be connected at frequent intervals to ensure that they act together, that faying surfaces intended to be in contact stay in contact, that excessive vibration of relatively thin parts does not occur, and that moisture will not penetrate between faying surfaces and cause corrosion.
The slenderness ratio L/ r of any component, where L is the longitudinal spacing of fasteners, should preferably not exceed 300. Provisions for lacing and tie plates, perforated cover plates, and fasteners, except those provisions intended specifically for compression members, are the same as for built-up compression members (Art. 6.28).
