What does 'to cope' mean in beam end connections?

What does 'to cope' mean in beam end connections?

• A. To notch the web for clearance
• B. To weld a cap plate
• C. To bolt through two members without interference
• D. To remove part of the flange at the end of a beam to avoid interference when joining members

Answer: (D)

Cope means trimming away part of the end of a beam’s flange so the end can fit around or past another member without interference. This lets two members join cleanly at the joint, with the end of one beam cleared to avoid collisions and maintain proper alignment and bearing. It’s different from notching the web, adding a cap plate, or simply bolting through without modifying the end; coping specifically describes removing end flange material to clear the adjacent member.

Cope means trimming away part of the end of a beam’s flange so the end can fit around or past another member without interference. This lets two members join cleanly at the joint, with the end of one beam cleared to avoid collisions and maintain proper alignment and bearing. It’s different from notching the web, adding a cap plate, or simply bolting through without modifying the end; coping specifically describes removing end flange material to clear the adjacent member.