The American Wood Council (AWC) has released an updated version of its free Connection Calculator.
The tool is based on the provisions the National Design Specification (NDS) for Wood Construction that is referenced in the 2015 International Building Code. The updated calculator includes cross-laminated timber (CLT) connection provisions and post-frame ring shank nails.
The tool provides an app-based approach for calculating capacities for single bolts, nails, lag screws, and wood screws. It offers a convenient way to determine both lateral and withdrawal connection values, and includes adjustment factors for temperature, wet service, varying load durations, and end grain.
Single- and double-shear capacities can be determined, as well as wood-to-wood, wood-to-concrete, and wood-to-steel connections, using a variety of solid sawn lumber, glulam, and CLT species, and wood structural panels. For connections loaded in shear, the calculator presents results for each of the NDS-prescribed yield modes and calls out the controlling result.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 15, 2020
Workers want policy changes before they return to offices
More office cleaning, work from home opportunities, and staying home when sick among the desired adjustments.
Codes and Standards | Jun 12, 2020
Carbon emission legislation prompts commercial real estate to innovate
Mass timber, augmented reality, and modular construction among the trends.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2020
USGBC offers new pilot credit to address green cleaning and COVID-19
Provides guidance on cleaning and disinfecting buildings using green cleaning best practices.
Codes and Standards | Jun 10, 2020
AIA issues tools for reducing risk of COVID-19 transmission in buildings
Tailored strategies offered for offices, retailers, schools, and senior living facilities.
Codes and Standards | Jun 8, 2020
OSHA construction safety inspections fall 84% during COVID-19 pandemic
Agency focuses on preventing disease transmission in healthcare industry.
Codes and Standards | Jun 8, 2020
5 must reads for the AEC industry today: June 8, 2020
Frank Lloyd Wright sites set to reopen and construction jobs rise by 464,000.
Codes and Standards | Jun 8, 2020
Reopened offices raise liability risk for businesses and owners
Risks may not be covered by property insurance.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2020
American Wood Council updates report on fire resistance of wood members and assemblies
Provides new examples and background on mass timber calculations.
Codes and Standards | Jun 3, 2020
Virginia makes GCs liable for subs employee wages
New law allows workers to sue GCs for wages in class action.
Codes and Standards | Jun 2, 2020
Designers, owners reinventing restaurants to cope with COVID-19
Options include rearranged seating, mobile ordering, designated flow spaces.
