Introduction to ACI-PCI 319-ACIPCI Webinar part 2

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The PCI webinar detailed the development and technical updates of the ACI-PCI 319 code, a collaborative effort between the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) to address precast structural concrete design. This new standalone code supplements ACI 318, focusing exclusively on precast and prestressed concrete while maintaining alignment with shared provisions. The presentation traced the historical integration of precast concrete provisions into ACI 318 and the eventual need for a dedicated code, driven by evolving building code admin philosophies and the desire for more comprehensive precast-specific requirements reflecting PCI’s extensive research and handbook expertise.<br /><br />Key highlights included new design provisions in ACI-PCI 319 such as advanced torsion design methods for prestressed beams, updated corbel designs, detailed requirements for dapped and notched end beams, and enhanced intermediate precast concrete shear wall provisions, moving beyond earlier limited joint-yielding rules to a more robust system-level approach including ductile and strong joint connections with detailed seismic design considerations. The code also introduced refined diaphragm design criteria, incorporating both topped and untopped precast diaphragms with new shear friction reinforcement provisions informed by PCI research, and guidelines for load testing precast components using exemplars.<br /><br />The webinar emphasized that ACI-PCI 319 preserves relevant common provisions from ACI 318 and integrates new and revised PCI-based methodologies for precast concrete, ensuring clarity and usability by minimizing cross-referencing. Future code cycle revisions will address deferred items like openings in thin webs and ledges, and improve coordination with complementary standards. Overall, the new code formalizes PCI’s 70 years of research and best practices into enforceable requirements to advance the design and safety of precast concrete structures.

Keywords

ACI-PCI 319

precast concrete design

prestressed concrete

American Concrete Institute

Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute

ACI 318

torsion design

corbel design

shear wall provisions

seismic design

diaphragm design

load testing