ICC-ES AC179
Full Name
ICC-ES AC179 – Acceptance Criteria for Metallic HVAC Duct Enclosure Assemblies
Scope
ICC-ES AC179 outlines the acceptance criteria for metallic HVAC duct enclosure assemblies that serve as an alternative to fire-resistance-rated shafts for protecting HVAC ducts.
The criteria cover the following key aspects:
- Fire resistance: the primary focus is on evaluating the fire resistance performance of the enclosure assemblies, ensuring they meet the required fire-resistance ratings as per building codes.
- Material and construction: specifying the acceptable materials for the enclosure (e.g., sheet metal, boards) and the construction details, including joints, seams, and fasteners, to ensure structural integrity and fire resistance.
- Testing procedures: outlining standardized testing methods to assess the fire resistance of the enclosure assemblies, such as subjecting them to fire exposure tests according to ASTM E119 or ASTM E2816.
- Installation requirements: providing guidelines for proper installation of the enclosure assemblies to maintain their fire resistance performance and comply with building code requirements.
By adhering to AC179, manufacturers can demonstrate that their metallic HVAC duct enclosure assemblies meet the necessary safety standards and provide equivalent fire protection to traditional fire-resistance-rated shafts. This allows for greater flexibility in HVAC system design and installation while maintaining fire safety.
Resources
Keywords
metallic HVAC duct; enclosure assemblies; fire resistance; acceptance criteria; fire-resistance rating; sheet metal; boards; joints; seams; fasteners; fire exposure tests; installation