During fabrication it is quite common to experience bowing of the plate due to weld shrinkage.
Moderate curvature of the plate in this way should not be a problem as the joint will usually be pulled together during erection as the bolts are tightened.
On site, it should be noted that end plates are intended to deform to perform their function as a pinned connection. In the case of long span beams, for example in car parks with the typical 16.1m bays, end plates will sometimes visibly deform as the decks are laid.
