Papers & Guidelines


SMACNA Technical Papers and Guidelines review processes, specifications and requirements in various documents and standards, providing reviews, recommendations, clarifications and some useful tips for contractors. 

All papers and guidelines are copyrighted by SMACNA and SMACNA grants members single user permission to download and use. Any other use or distribution require SMACNA’s permission.

Technical Papers & Guidelines Mar 28 2024

SMACNA Seismic Restraint Manual 4th Edition (45 Day Public Review)

The newly revised SMACNA Seismic Restraint Manual 4th edition has significant changes based on the new requirements within ASCE 7 and ACI 318. 10ga sheet metal now included, and cable sizes, hot & cold formed angle have been upgraded.

Additionally upgraded anchor capacity for concrete anchor in normal concrete and lightweight concrete over metal deck. Figures now included in Revit format.

Technical Resources Apr 27 2021

EPA Signs SNAP Rule 23

On April 23, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Rule 23 - New listings for refrigeration and air conditioning; revised listing for fire suppression.

Technical Resources Jul 31 2018

Soldering Copper Flat Lock Roof Seams

This study tests the use of 1/2 inch wide flat lock seam soldered joints. The industry’s current recommended widths are 5/8-inch-wide flat lock seams (Architectural Sheet Metal Manual by SMACNA) and 3/4-inch-wide flat lock seams (Copper and Common Sense by Revere Copper).

Technical Resources Jul 01 2001

SMACNA CAD Standard

The “SMACNA CAD Standard,” second edition, 2001, articulates in greater detail the CAD standards that will enable members of the AEC community to apply CAD effectively to mechanical, fire protection, and plumbing design and construction.