Casement Window
Safety Drop:
The safety drop test for a casement window evaluates the structural integrity and safety of the sash and its hardware by simulating an accidental slam or uncontrolled closing. In this test, the sash is opened to a specified angle and then released, allowing it to swing shut under its own weight or with assisted force to mimic a sudden drop. The goal is to assess whether the window can withstand the impact without glass breakage, hardware failure, or frame damage. To pass, the casement window must remain intact and operable, demonstrating its ability to endure real-world handling and contribute to occupant safety as required by NAFS standards.
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Life Cycle:
The life cycle test for a casement window assesses the product’s long-term durability by simulating repeated opening and closing over an extended period, replicating years of typical use. Conducted in accordance with NAFS and AAMA 910 (for AW-class products), the test uses mechanical actuators to operate the sash through its full range of motion, opening, closing, and latching, for thousands of cycles, typically 4,000 for AW-class. Throughout the test, the window is monitored for signs of wear, hardware loosening, sash misalignment, or operational failure. After the cycling is complete, the window must continue to function normally and meet required performance criteria such as operating force and air leakage resistance to be considered compliant.
Forced Entry Resistance:
The forced entry resistance test for a casement window evaluates the window’s ability to deter unauthorized access through the use of physical force and common hand tools. Conducted in accordance with ASTM F588, the test targets vulnerable areas such as locking points, hinges, and frame connections by applying pulling, prying, or pushing forces intended to simulate a break-in attempt. The goal is to prevent an access probe of defined size from penetrating through the unit within a specified time limit. To pass, the casement window must maintain its integrity and resist being opened or compromised, demonstrating a suitable level of security for its NAFS performance class.
Sash/Leaf Torsion:
The sash torsion test for a casement window evaluates the structural integrity of the sash when subjected to twisting forces that simulate uneven loading or racking during operation or environmental stress. In this test, opposing forces are applied diagonally across the corners of the sash, typically at the hinge and latch edges, to induce torsion, and the resulting deformation is measured. The purpose is to assess how well the sash resists distortion that could affect the window’s operation, sealing, or long-term durability. To comply with NAFS requirements, the deflection must remain within allowable limits, and the sash must return to its original shape without permanent damage after the load is removed.
Casement/Hardware Load:
The hardware load test for a casement window evaluates the strength and durability of the window’s operating hardware, such as hinges, operators, and support arms, when subjected to vertical and horizontal loads. This test simulates the stresses hardware experiences during normal use, wind pressure, and accidental overloading. A specified force is applied to the open sash at a defined distance from the hinges to create leverage on the hardware, and the resulting deflection is measured. The hardware must support the load without excessive deformation, detachment, or failure, ensuring that the window maintains its operability and structural performance in compliance with NAFS requirements.