ICC-ES AC368
Full Name
ICC-ES AC368 – Acceptance Criteria for Suspended Ceiling Framing Systems
Scope
ICC-ES AC368 outlines the acceptance criteria for suspended ceiling framing systems used to support acoustical lay-in panels or tiles.
The scope of AC368 includes:
- Materials: it specifies the requirements for the materials used in the framing systems, such as the metal components, hangers, and connectors, ensuring their strength, durability, and compatibility.
- Design and construction: it details the design and construction requirements for the framing systems, including their configurations, dimensions, and connection details, to ensure their structural integrity and stability.
- Performance: it outlines the testing methods and acceptance criteria for evaluating the performance of the framing systems, including their load-bearing capacity, deflection limits, and resistance to seismic and wind forces.
- Installation: it provides guidelines for the proper installation of the framing systems, including spacing, attachment methods, and bracing requirements, to ensure their safe and effective use.
- Fire resistance: it addresses the fire resistance requirements for the framing systems, specifying the minimum fire-resistance ratings based on the intended use and building occupancy.
- Quality control: it establishes a quality control program for manufacturers to ensure that the framing systems consistently meet the requirements of the acceptance criteria, including inspections and testing procedures.
The AC368 acceptance criteria are used by manufacturers to obtain an evaluation report from ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES), which demonstrates that their suspended ceiling framing systems comply with the applicable building codes and standards.
Resources
Keywords
ceiling; suspended ceiling; framing; framing system; acceptance criteria; metal; hanger; connector; load capacity; deflection; seismic; wind; fire resistance; installation; spacing; attachment; bracing; quality control; building code; standard; evaluation report