Summary of Primary Window and Door Testing
Air Infiltration is the measurement of the amount of air that penetrates a window or door assembly when subjected to a static pressure equal to a 24.8 mile-per-hour simulated wind. Air infiltration is typically rated in cubic feet per minute per square foot of the assembly (or the metric equivalent). The acceptable rate and pressure may vary between standards and between performance classes of products.
Water Resistance is the measurement of a window or door assembly's ability to control the water infiltration into the interior of a structure. The assembly is subjected to either a static or cyclic pressure that will simulate a wind-driven rain at a rate equivalent to eight inches of rain per hour. The water resistance rating is determined by applying the pressure at 15 percent of the design pressure (DP) rating of the assembly.
Structural Testing is the measurement of a window or door assembly's ability to resist windload, which establishes the unit's design pressure (DP) rating. The assembly is subjected to both positive and negative pressures while deflection and permanent set are measured at strategic points. There is also a safety or "proof" load applied at 1.5 times the design pressure. This assures that the product will meet the windload (design pressures) at which the product is rated.
Forced Entry Resistance is where the window or door assembly is tested to withstand silent illegal entry. The assembly is subjected to hand-tool manipulation as well as pneumatic loading of the sash or other components that may provide a point of entry. The pneumatic loading simulates a person that is pushing, pulling or prying at the assembly to gain entry.
Large Missile Impact testing will determine the ability of a product to withstand the impact of a large object under extreme windstorm conditions. The "missile" for testing consists of a 2 x 4 that is eight feet long and weighs between 9 and 9 ½ pounds. The missile is propelled at 50 ft/second or roughly 34 miles per hour. The test sample is impacted at least twice in specific locations and is then subjected to a cyclic pressure that simulates a buffeting wind. The specimen is subjected to up to nine thousand cycles at various pressure levels. In order to pass, the sample must not have a through hole greater than 1/16" wide by 5" long.