A. For bearing stiffeners that provide diaphragm connections, specify a “mill-to-bear” finish on the bottom flange and fillet welded connections to both the top and bottom flanges.
B. In negative moment regions only, stiffeners with attached diaphragms may be bolted to the top flange.
Commentary: In negative moment regions, welded connections are preferred because of the lower cost, but the design of the flange must consider the appropriate fatigue detail category.