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FAQ

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What do I need to do the AAMA 501.2 test?

You can use our RainWand device to run this test. To make it even easier to maintain a constant distance from the surface and easier to reach all of the testing area we also recommend the Boom Extension.

Then you simply need a water source that can get you to 30 psi and you are set to go.

Why should I get my equipment calibrated?

To ensure you are meeting the test standards and your equipment is in good, safe working condition you should get it calibrated.

As part of our calibration process we carefully inspect the unit for any current or on the verge of issues. We ensure all working parts are still in spec to ensure your testing is accurate.

For that peace of mind and guarantee to your customer ensure you are keeping your equipment calibrated.

What test is run on a window with no moving parts?

Run the AAMA 501.2 which requires windows with no moving parts to stand up to this more stringent standard.

Our product for conducting this test is the
Rain Wand
. It provides a strong and small area spray. The spray is strong enough to make an operable, or residential type window leak for sure, and possibly even damage the specimen. The only test specimen designed to withstand the AAMA 501.2 standard is a storefront type window, or a curtain wall.

How soon can I expect products to ship after being ordered?

We do our best to ship as quickly as possible. Most items will ship within 24 hrs, but it can occasionally take a few days to prepare your order.

Shipping will depend on your selection from next day air to ground and depending on where you are will determine when you get your package.

What pressure do I run the Rain Maker SprayRack during a water spray test?

According the the ASTM standards for spray testing, you must run the spray rack at the same pressure it was ran during its calibration test. The Rain Maker comes with a calibration test result sheet which reveals all conditions the spray rack was under during the calibration test, including pressure, distance of nozzles from test surface and from each other.

The standard calibration is done at 12 psi, 20" from the surface.

What do I do if I can't get up to 12 psi at the RainMaker for the spray test?

If you don't have enough pressure at the RainMaker to get to 12 psi then you will need a booster pump. See our product pages for options.

Can I use the RainWand to perform the ASTM E1105 or equivalent test?

The Rain Wand is specifically designed to perform the AAMA 501.2 test only on curtain walls or storefront type windows with no operable parts - meaning only a window that cannot be opened and closed. Using the Rain Wand to perform any other test will reveal nothing about the window's performance, and can potentially damage an operable window.

How large of a chamber can the Wind Maker handle?

There are too many variables involved to be able to calculate an answer to this question. However, the Wind Maker is equipped with a "variable speed auxiliary power outlet".
If you need additional help in getting your chamber vacated, please check out our Boost product which increases the capacity of the Wind Maker for those large or leaky setups.

I am looking to do a specific ASTM test and don't see any product on this site that can help me out.

Please contact us at info@sprayrack.com or call us at 952.471.2623 and we would be happy to discuss your needs. We are constantly adding to our products to help all of you increase your testing ability.

What is the difference between ASTM E 331 and E1105?

There are fundamental differences that are revealed in the
titles of each standard.

These are identified with italics below:

ASTM E 331 — Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference

ASTM E 1105 — Standard Test Method for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Installed Exterior
Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform or Cyclic Static Air
Pressure Difference

Other differences:

  • The E 331 describes the test specimen being affixed to the air chamber
  • The E 1105 describes the air chamber being affixed to the test specimen
  • The E 1105 is the only water infiltration standard that describes the
    inspection of operable windows
  • The E 331 (and E 547) mention and have diagrams for testing skylights, the E 1105 does not

Hence the 1105 adding the specification of Installed test specimens, and specimens in the field. Included diagrams show these differences. In short, the 1105 is easier to comply with in the field.

It is difficult to find these and other differences without actually placing the two standards next each other, page by page. There is another very similar test method, ASTM E 547, which only allows for the cyclic air pressure procedure. It is also interesting to note that there are a
few AAMA standards that refer to these ASTM standards for most of their
procedures and are performed in nearly identical fashion.

What should I do before test day to ensure a successful test?

There are important issues to cover with your client before the
day of the test that you'll be performing for them. If these are not covered
ahead of time and it's discovered on test day that the test cannot be
performed, it can be very costly.

  • Water Supply - ensure there is a source with enough volume and pressure. You may need a booster pump, additional hoses, special fittings, etc.
  • Accessibility - able to get to the test area without obstruction, it is prepared to test and anything in the affected area knows about the testing.
  • Ensure the test specimen is of the type for that particular ASTM/AAMA test.
  • Power - ensure any power needs are identified and available