The PCA Notes on ACI 318-19 provide comprehensive guidance for structural engineers, translating updated code requirements into practical applications through in-depth explanations and design examples. Key updates covered include high-strength reinforcement, revised shear provisions, and expanded strut-and-tie method requirements for the 2019 code. You can find the publication at the Portland Cement Association (PCA).
This article provides a deep dive into the PCA Notes on ACI 318-19, exploring its structure, its critical updates from previous editions (notably ACI 318-14 and 318-11), how to use it in parallel with the code, and why it remains indispensable for the EIT, the SE, and the plan reviewer.
: New sections on the design of drilled piers and piles, which were moved into the main body of ACI 318-19. Structural Organization
The is an essential companion manual produced by the Portland Cement Association (PCA) that explains the practical application of the ACI 318-19 building code. It is widely considered a "good feature" for structural engineers because it bridges the gap between raw code requirements and real-world design execution . Key Features of PCA Notes on ACI 318-19