Direct Answer
Composite construction uses shear studs to mechanically connect steel beams to a concrete slab, making them act together as a single structural unit. The composite beam has significantly higher stiffness and strength than the steel beam alone. For fabrication, composite construction means installing shear studs on the top flange of designated beams — either in the shop or in the field.
Full Explanation
In composite construction, the concrete slab acts as a compression element (similar to the top flange of a larger beam) while the steel section carries tension. This composite action allows the engineer to use lighter steel sections than would be required for non-composite design — reducing steel tonnage and cost. The degree of composite action (full or partial) is specified by the engineer and determines the number of shear studs. Full composite uses 100% of the maximum shear transfer capacity; partial composite (typically 25–85%) uses fewer studs, balancing structural efficiency against stud installation cost.
What This Means for Your Shop
Composite beams may require camber (to counteract dead load plus wet concrete deflection before composite action is achieved). The number and spacing of shear studs must match the structural drawing — more studs = more composite action = higher capacity. Less is not conservative in partial composite design.
Common Mistakes
Installing fewer shear studs than specified on a partial composite beam, then arguing that 'partial' means any fraction. Partial composite has a minimum shear ratio (typically 25%) — fewer studs than that is non-compliant.
Recommended Process
Create a shear stud installation list from the composite beam schedule — each beam, its stud count, diameter, and spacing. Check off each beam after stud installation. Have the special inspector verify stud count and weld quality before slab pour.