AWC Connection Calc - Mobile Approach to Calculating Connection Capacities

The AWC Connection Calc application offers a convenient mobile solution for calculating connection capacities for various fasteners, including single bolts, nails, lag screws, and wood screws. This tool adheres to the 2015 National Design Specification (NDS) for Wood Construction, allowing you to determine both lateral (single and double shear) and withdrawal capacities. It supports different types of connections, such as wood-to-wood, wood-to-concrete, and wood-to-steel.

Limits of Use and Scope

This application calculates connection capacities based on the design provisions outlined in the 2015 NDS for Wood Construction. To ensure accurate results, the following assumptions and conditions must be met:

• Bolts and lag screws must comply with ANSI/ASME B18.2.1, while wood screws must adhere to ANSI/ASME B18.6.1 standards, and nails must follow ASTM F1667.
• Fasteners like bolts, lag screws, and wood screws should be installed in pre-drilled pilot holes according to NDS Chapter 11 guidelines.
• These fasteners must not be forcibly driven into connection members using a hammer or other impact devices.
• Adjacent connection members should be brought into contact during fastener installation.
• Adequate edge distances, end distances, and spacing must be maintained to prevent splitting of wood members, as per NDS Chapter 11.
• Steel side plates thicker than 1/4 inch must meet ASTM A36 standards, whereas thinner ones must meet ASTM A653, Grade 33.
• Concrete connection members must have a minimum compressive strength of 2500 psi.
• The online Connection Calculator does not address multiple-fastener connections, angled fastener installations, or combined lateral and withdrawal loading scenarios. Refer to NDS Chapters 10-11 and NDS Appendix E for more details.

General Structural Guidelines

The quality of structural wood products and fasteners, along with the design of load-bearing members and connections, must comply with the provisions of the NDS. The online Connection Calculator is grounded in design equations for lateral and withdrawal loading specified in NDS Chapters 10 and 11, alongside fastener characteristics detailed in NDS Appendix L. Additional guidelines for designing connections in wood structures can be found in the NDS Commentary, NDS Appendices I through N, and NDS Chapters 12-13.

Responsibility for Design

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, and special attention has been given to align the data with the latest advancements. However, neither the American Forest & Paper Association nor its members assume any responsibility for designs prepared using this online Connection Calculator. Users are fully liable for the outcomes resulting from the use of this tool.