I am wondering if I need to use an internal reinforcement cylinder inside of a section of steel square tubing. The square tubing in question is 2.5", with a wall thickness of 3/16". The fastener will be a 9/16" Grade 8 bolt, with a through hole of 5/8".
I will also have a 1/4" section of plate outside of each side of the steel square tubing, with a width spanning the full distance of the flat side of the square tubing, from shoulder to shoulder (about 1.75" x 1.75").
Will I need to insert a piece of pipe inside of the steel square tubing to keep it from collapsing, or will the 1/4" plate on the outsides spread the load sufficiently?
Thanks for any thoughts on this.
Jon