According to Ken Brenden, AAMA technical standards
manager, the revamped seven-page document, first published in 2000 and titled Voluntary Specifications for Impact and Cycle Testing of Fenestration Products, includes several updates.
The document is designed to provide a system for rating the ability of windows, doors, skylights and sliding glass doors to withstand impact and pressure cycling generally associated with hurricane conditions. “In addition to various editorial changes, the most significant changes were the addition of a new section 8.0, ‘Qualification of Alternate Constructions,’ although these alternate constructions or details must also successfully complete all
requirements of Section 6.0 to be qualified, therefore, some additional testing may be required,” states Brenden.
An exception was also allowed in Section 6.2 regarding mullions and the addition of cladding or a wrapped material. In addition to the three previous versions of the 101/I.S. 2 standard, AAMA 506-08 also recognizes products that have satisfied the minimum requirements associated with AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S. 2/A440-08, NAFS-North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for windows, doors, and skylights.
In addition, the reference to storefronts and curtain walls was removed and the text “surrounding building substrate for which qualification by this standard is sought” was added in Section 7.1 that deals with test specimen preparation,
according to Brenden.
The Voluntary Specifications for Impact and Cycle Testing of Fenestration Products is available to members at a cost of $10 for download, $20 for paper copy and $25 for CD. Non-members may purchase the document at a cost of $25 for download, $50 for paper copy and $55 for CD. To order AAMA 506-08, visit the AAMA Online Publication Store at www.aamanet.org; call 847-303-5664; or write the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, 1827 Walden Office Square, Suite 550, Schaumburg, IL 60173.
AAMA is the source of performance standards, product certification,
and educational programs for the fenestration industry.SM
AAMA Updates Document Addressing Impact and Cycle Testing
Date: 24 April 2008
Source: AAMA
SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – AAMA 506-08, a voluntary specification for impact and cycle testing, has been released by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA).