<Tr> <Td_colspan="2"> <Ul> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> </Ul> </Td> </Tr> <Ul> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> </Ul> <P> Gusset plates are triangular plates of steel that are used to connect beams and girders to columns . A gusset plate can be fastened to a permanent member either by bolts, rivets or welding or a combination of the three . Gusset plates not only serve as a method of joining steel members together but they also strengthen the joint . They are used in bridges and buildings as well as other structures . </P> <P> Gusset plates are usually either made from cold rolled or galvanized steel based upon their use . Galvanized steel offers more protection from rust, so this is usually used when the gusset plate is exposed to the elements . The gusset plate is usually painted to match nearby steel and fixtures and to give it an extra layer of protection . </P>

The thickness of guesset plate of steel used in roof trusses is