Question $1(25\%)$

The truss member shown consists of two C$1225($A$36$ steel$)$ tension member connected to connected to a $1-$inch gusset plate sandwiched between the two channels.

Determine the maximum design load that can be applied to this bearing$-$type connection. The bolts are $3/4-$inch A$490$ bolts and threads are excluded. A$36$ steel is used for the gusset plate. Assume $U=0\mathrm{.}85.$

Use LRFD and investigate all possible failure modes $($except block shear failure$)$ for the tension members and the bolted connection.

Based on the calculation you did; would you recommend or not recommend adding more bolts to better utilize the capacity of this connection? Justify your answer.