How to Add Gusset in Weldments in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To add a gusset in weldments in SolidWorks, use the Structural Member tool to create the main frame, then select the Gusset feature from the Weldments tab. Sketch the gusset profile on the desired face and use the Trim/Extend tool to fit it properly between members.

Syntax

In SolidWorks weldments, adding a gusset involves these main steps:

• Structural Member: Create the main frame members.
• Gusset Feature: Select this to add gussets.
• Sketch: Draw the gusset shape on a face or plane.
• Trim/Extend: Adjust the gusset to fit between members.

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1. Open Weldments tab
2. Click Structural Member and create frame
3. Click Gusset
4. Select face or plane for gusset sketch
5. Sketch gusset profile (triangle or custom shape)
6. Use Trim/Extend to fit gusset
7. Confirm and finish

Example

This example shows how to add a triangular gusset between two structural members in a weldment:

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1. Create two structural members intersecting at a corner.
2. Select the Weldments tab and click <code>Gusset</code>.
3. Choose the face where the gusset will be placed.
4. Sketch a triangular shape connecting the two members.
5. Use <code>Trim/Extend</code> to clean up the gusset edges.
6. Click OK to add the gusset to the weldment.

Output

A triangular gusset plate appears connecting the two members, reinforcing the joint visually and structurally.

Common Pitfalls

• Not selecting the correct face or plane for the gusset sketch causes misplacement.
• Sketching a gusset shape that does not fully connect members leads to weak joints.
• Forgetting to use Trim/Extend results in overlapping or gaps.
• Not confirming the gusset feature before exiting loses the changes.

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Wrong way:
- Sketch gusset off the member face
- Skip Trim/Extend

Right way:
- Select correct face
- Sketch gusset fully connecting members
- Use Trim/Extend to fit
- Confirm feature

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Create Structural Members	Use Weldments tab > Structural Member
2	Select Gusset Feature	Click Gusset in Weldments tab
3	Sketch Gusset	Draw on correct face or plane
4	Trim/Extend Gusset	Fit gusset between members cleanly
5	Confirm Gusset	Click OK to apply changes

Key Takeaways

Use the Weldments tab to access Structural Member and Gusset tools.

Always sketch the gusset on the correct face or plane for proper placement.

Use Trim/Extend to ensure the gusset fits perfectly between members.

Confirm the gusset feature to save your changes in the weldment.

Check the gusset visually to ensure it reinforces the joint correctly.