ICC-ES AC230

Full Name

ICC-ES AC230 – Acceptance Criteria for Power-actuated Fasteners for Shear Wall Assemblies Constructed with Cold-formed Steel Framing and Wood Structural Panels

Scope

ICC-ES AC230 provides a framework for evaluating the performance and suitability of power-actuated fasteners in specific construction scenarios.

The scope of AC230 includes:

  • Fastener types: specifically focuses on power-actuated fasteners, which are driven into materials using a controlled explosion or other high-energy means.
  • Application: these fasteners are intended for use in shear wall assemblies, which are crucial structural components designed to resist lateral forces like wind and earthquakes.
  • Materials: the shear wall assemblies must be constructed with cold-formed steel framing and wood structural panels, which are common materials in residential and light commercial construction.

AC230 outlines the performance requirements for these fasteners, including their ability to withstand shear forces, withdrawal loads, and combined stresses. It also details the necessary test methods to assess these performance criteria.

In essence, AC230 serves as a technical guideline for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of power-actuated fasteners in specific shear wall applications, ensuring that they meet the necessary building code requirements and contribute to the structural integrity of the building.

Resources

Keywords

power-actuated fasteners; shear wall assemblies; cold-formed steel framing; wood structural panels; performance; evaluation; testing; shear force; withdrawal load; building code; safety; structural integrity