Stormwater calculator

The second phase of the National Stormwater Calculator and Climate Assessment Tool has been released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The desktop application is able to estimate the annual amount of stormwater runoff in specific locations. Now, the tool includes seasonal precipitation levels, effects of high-intensity...

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SketchUp updates

The most recent version of the SketchUp 2014, a 3D modeling program for architects, engineers, and design professionals, is now available. This edition features enhancements to the 3D Warehouse—a repository of 3D content and tools that improve the classification of design objects used with building information...

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Steel windows online

A new, comprehensive website designed to aid in the specification of various steel window types—from ventilated to fire-rated—is now up and running. The Steel Window Institute (SWI) offers visitors a gallery of installation photos, easier navigation compared to the former design, and updated technical and product information. Information regarding...

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Autodesk training guides

Autodesk Official Training Guides (AOTG) have been released for 2015 software now available through ASCENT–Center for Technical Knowledge. These resources are available for civil, building, and mechanical designers and engineers to become informed on the 3D design software. They were created to provide instruction for classrooms,...

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Education, Cradle to Cradle

Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute has developed, a new education program regarding material selection and design strategies to ensure materials are safely handled at their end-of-life. The free, self-paced, online course is awarded at five levels of certification—Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Additionally, the Cradle to Cradle...

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Metal roofs and claddings

The Metal Construction Association (MCA) has published new technical bulletins and white papers on its website regarding building with metal walls and roofs. The new website additions include the technical bulletin, “Roof Covering Repair Requirements and the International Code.” This offers information on types of repair materials and how...

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Pressure-treated Southern Pine 101

The Southern Forest Products Association (SFPA) has published the 2014 edition of Pressure-treated Southern Pine. The resource provides information regarding the correct specification and use of pressure-treated Southern Pine material. Included in the document is an introduction to wood preservatives, sections on fasteners and connectors, as well as design...

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Duct construction app

The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) has released an app for the third edition of its manual, HVAC Duct Construction Standard—Metal and Flexible. The app provides a simplified process for finding construction options for rectangular ducts with dimensions up to 3048 mm (120 in.) for...

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Natural stone education online

A new online continuing education unit (CEU) course, “Organizations, Resources, and Standards Relevant to Natural Stone,” has been launched by the Marble Institute of America (MIA). The course will provide participants with information regarding the history of industry organizations and why each is relevant to design professionals. Learning objectives...

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Duct specifications app developed

In addition to the HVAC Duct Construction Standard—Metal and Flexible manual, Sheet Metal and Air-conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) has developed an app for designing ducts. It includes information regarding options for rectangular ducts with dimensions up to 3048 mm (120 in.) for applications from negative to positive 254-mm...

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