We are hearing that the ASCE is close to completing the final version of the upcoming FRP building code. The code is basically an updated version of the LRFD Pre-Standard released by ASCE and the ACMA in 2010. So it is conceivable that there could finally be a FRP code in 2020 or soon at least.
This is a long time coming and especially for the pultruded FRP world. We understand some of the pultrusion manufacturers are working on an LRFD manual for when the code is ready. Up to the release of the new code, design data is a little nebulous for engineering companies. This is because they have to accept and use the manufacturing data and not actually refer to a code. Some jurisdictions can have issues with this.
PulCalc clients have been asking when/if FRP manufacturers will address LRFD for FRP designs. Well it depends on when/if the FRP pre-standard actually becomes an actual FRP building code. The possible new FRP building code will be a major change to the construction industry.
So looking forward to future news and we will update this blog as it comes in. Stay tuned.