Under structural-only DP loading, a certain amount of deflection is allowed, and a certain amount of post-loading set displacement (permanent deformation) is allowed. Under the DP (design pressure) system, DP ratings are defined differently for structural, water leakage, and air leakage tests. This is a structural only test, so it is not mandatory to maintain a water or airtight seal during or after the load is performed, it simply must not break either the frame, the door, or the glass.

I’m not sure if this unit was a pass or a fail. It at least didn’t break.

This two-panel patio door unit has an astragal on the inactive (non-handled) panel with shoot bolts into the head and sill. The active (handled) panel has no shoot bolts in this design, and acts more like a traditional door system.

I believe this was a DP50 structural test rating, equivalent to a 200mph wind. DP is gradually being replaced by the PG rating system which also includes air and water leakage during and after loading in a single unified test definition.

  • @acetanilide
    link
    95 months ago

    This is hilarious because I am literally wearing a shirt I got in grade school from a company that did this type of testing. They helped with one of their tests for a science project. Made it to regionals 😎