The shear flow equation includes the moment of inertia I and the moment of area Q. The cross section consists of standard steel shapes. Therefore, we will use tabulated section properties for the W16×40 and C10×20 shapes to simplify the calculation of I and Q for the built-up shape.

From the shear flow equation, we compute the shear flow q that is required to satisfy equilibrium. Next, we turn our attention to the bolts. The bolts must be spaced in such a way that they provide the required shear flow q.