Topic outline

  • Evaluating the Structural Integrity of Connections, Welds, Anchors, and Fasteners

    Credits: 4 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides a comprehensive guide for evaluating the structural integrity of critical connection components used in civil, structural, and mechanical engineering. Emphasis is placed on assessing welded joints, mechanical fasteners, anchorage systems, and overall connection behavior under service and ultimate loading conditions. 

    The course explores inspection techniques, applicable code provisions, failure modes, load path continuity, and condition assessment for both new and aging infrastructure. Participants will develop the skills needed to recognize compromised connections and recommend remediation, retrofit, or replacement strategies based on sound engineering principles.

    Topics:

    By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the mechanical behavior and performance criteria of connections in structural systems
    • Identify types and applications of welds, fasteners, and anchors in both steel and concrete structures
    • Recognize common failure modes and fatigue mechanisms associated with connections
    • Apply visual inspection, non-destructive testing (NDT), and destructive testing methods
    • Interpret design and performance requirements from relevant codes and standards
    • Evaluate deterioration due to corrosion, overload, vibration, or installation error
    • Formulate engineering judgments for structural adequacy and repair techniques

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

    For a quick overview of our site's policies, please click here: (FAQs)

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for licensed professional engineers involved in structural, civil, mechanical, industrial, construction, and architectural engineering. It also applies to engineers working in infrastructure assessment, maintenance, forensic investigation, and code compliance. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1