The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has published a new standard: AISI S310-13, North American Standard for the Design of Profiled Steel Diaphragm Panels. The new standard provides design provisions for diaphragms consisting of profiled steel decks or panels which include acoustic panels, cellular deck, and composite deck filled with concrete. The diaphragm may be installed with or without insulation between the panels and supports, and may be supported by materials made of steel, wood or concrete. AISI S310-13 was approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as an American National Standard.

Both analytical and test methods are provided. The AISI S310 analytical method is based on the Steel Deck Institute’s Diaphragm Design Manual, which is commonly used to determine the strength and stiffness of diaphragms. The standard determines the in-plane strength and stiffness of steel panels with or without concrete-fills, and the strength and stiffness of connections in a diaphragm.

The standard was developed by AISI’s Committee on Specifications, with participation by the Steel Deck Institute, Metal Building Manufacturers Association, and Metal Construction Association. It is intended for use in the United States, Canada and Mexico. AISI S310 is available for downloading free of charge at www.aisistandards.org.

“In 2006, AISI was asked by the steel industry to develop a consensus standard for diaphragm design, and AISI S310-13 is the collaborative response to that request,” said Jay Larson, P.E., F.ASCE, Managing Director, Construction Technical Program. “The new standard represents the consensus of industry stakeholders and enhances the standardization of steel diaphragm design.”