Significance and Use

This test method is a standard procedure for determining the air leakage characteristics under specified air pressure differences at ambient conditions.

Note 2The air pressure differences acting across a building envelope vary greatly. The factors affecting air pressure differences and the implications or the resulting air leakage relative to the environment within buildings are discussed in the literature. ^{, ,} These factors should be fully considered in specifying the test pressure differences to be used.

Rates of air leakage are sometimes used for comparison purposes. Such comparisons may not be valid unless the components being tested and compared are of essentially the same size, configuration, and design.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers a standard laboratory procedure for determining the air leakage rates of exterior windows, curtain walls, and doors under specified differential pressure conditions across the specimen. The test method described is for tests with constant temperature and humidity across the specimen.

1.2 This laboratory procedure is applicable to exterior windows, curtain walls, and doors and is intended to measure only such leakage associated with the assembly and not the installation. The test method can be adapted for the latter purpose.

Note 1Performing tests at non-ambient conditions or with a temperature differential across the specimen may affect the air leakage rate. This is not addressed by this test method.

1.3 This test method is intended for laboratory use. Persons interested in performing field air leakage tests on installed units should reference Test Method E783 .

1.4 Persons using this procedure should be knowledgeable in the areas of fluid mechanics, instrumentation practices, and shall have a general understanding of fenestration products and components.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statement see Section 7.

FIG. 1 General Arrangement of the Air Leakage Apparatus

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

E631 Terminology of Building Constructions

E783 Test Method for Field Measurement of Air Leakage Through Installed Exterior Windows and Doors

Keywords

air leakage; curtain walls; doors; fenestration; laboratory method; static pressure chamber; windows ; Air leakage testing--building materials/constructions; Curtain walls; Doors/door assemblies; Exterior doors; Exterior windows; Leak testing; Leak testing--building constructions/materials; Windows/window assemblies;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 91.120.10 (Thermal insulation of buildings)

DOI: 10.1520/E0283-04R12

ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.

ASTM E283