ASTM E331 Test Method for Water Permeability of Exterior Windows, Roof Windows, Doors and Curtain Walls with Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference

EUROLAB laboratory provides testing and compliance services within the scope of ASTM E331 standard. The ASTM E331 standard covers the determination of the resistance of exterior windows, curtain walls, skylights, and doors to water penetration when water is applied simultaneously to the exterior surface and exposed edges, with a uniform static air pressure higher than the exterior pressure.

This test method can be applied to any curtain wall area or to stand-alone windows, skylights or doors. This test method considers water leakage from a fabricated assembly. Water that penetrates the assembly but does not result in a failure as described herein can have adverse effects on the performance of contained materials such as sealants and insulators or laminated glass. This test method does not solve these problems. The correct use of this test method requires knowledge of the principles of pressure measurement.

ASTM E331 testing is performed by applying water to the outside of the test sample while reducing the pressure inside through an air chamber built into or on the opposite side of the test sample. The water spray system has nozzles spaced apart on a grid to distribute the water for even wetting of the test sample, including areas sensitive to water ingress.

The calibrated spray apparatus (spray rack system) delivers water to the test sample at a rate of 5.0 US gal/ft²-h. The test pressure difference is usually determined by the test specifier. Most general specifications require a minimum test pressure of 6.24 psf.

This test method is a standard procedure for determining resistance to water ingress under uniform static air pressure differences. Air pressure differences acting on a building envelope vary greatly. These factors must be fully considered before determining the test pressure differential to be used.

When applying the results of tests with this test method, keep in mind that the performance of a wall or its components, or both, may be a function of correct installation and adjustment. Performance in service will also depend on the stiffness of the supporting structure and the resistance of the components to various causes of deterioration, vibration, thermal expansion and contraction. Served by large wind blowing water drops, water drop impact pressures that increase with increasing wind speed, and air and water moving laterally or upwards. Some designs are more sensitive to this upward moving water than others.

This test method consists of sealing the test specimen against one side or the face of a test chamber, supplying or expelling air from the chamber at the rate necessary to maintain the test pressure difference across the specimen, while simultaneously spraying the exterior of the apparatus with water. By observing the sample at the required rate and any water penetration.

Values ​​stated in SI units should be accepted as standard. The values ​​in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units, which are not considered standard and are provided for informational purposes only.

This standard does not purport to address all, if any, safety concerns associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory restrictions prior to use.

Our organization, EUROLAB, provides water permeability test method services of exterior windows, skylights, doors and curtain walls with uniform static air pressure difference, within the framework of national and international standards, with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies. . Provides testing services within the scope of ASTM E331 standard.