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VEKA Passes Bomb Blast Testing With ATI's Shock
Tube
March 22, 2010
VEKA Inc. recently contracted Architectural Testing Inc (ATI) to
perform shock tube blast load simulation testing for its Euroview™
window systems. The shock tube simulates a TNT discharge, which
is set a certain distance away from an installed window under typical
conditions, i.e., arena testing.
The testing utilizes criteria of ASTM F1642, Standard Test Method
for Glazing and Glazing Systems Subject to Airblast Loadings, GSA-TS01-2003,
Standard Test Method for Glazing and Window Systems Subject to Dynamic
Overpressure Loadings, and AAMA 510-06, Voluntary Guide for Blast
Hazard Mitigation Systems for Fenestration Products. These test
methods are used to establish hazard ratings of glazing systems
subjected to bomb blast loading which provide the ability to determine
the risk of personal injury and facility damage.
The GSA standard is the sole test protocol by which blast-resistant
windows and related hazard mitigation technology and products are
evaluated for facilities under the control and responsibility of
the US General Services Administration (GSA).
"This is a big step for us in the Commercial Window segment
of our business," says Kevin Seiling, corporate director of
engineering states. "VEKA is the first PVC extruder to test
a vinyl window in this manner with ATI, so both parties are at the
forefront of this technology for the vinyl window industry in North
America. This experience has been a very positive one for the Euroview™
products and we hope to do more testing on the line in the very
near future."
The Euroview project-out (casement) window and dual-action (tilt-turn)
window were tested. These windows are comprised of laminated insulating
glass units, steel reinforcing, multi-locking point hardware and
multi-chambered PVC profiles that were extruded in Fombell, Pa.
Both the casement and the dual-action test specimens received "minimal
hazard" ratings.
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