AAMA releases new, voluntary test method

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association,Schaumburg, Ill., has released theAAMA 1503-09, a voluntary test method for windows, doors and glazed wall sections, according to an April 17 release. The test method, titled "Voluntary Test Method for Thermal Transmittance and Condensation Resistance of Windows, Doors and Glazed Wall Sections," contains the latest improvements evolving from more than 25 years of thermal testing by AAMA accredited testing laboratories. The test method measures the thermal characteristics of windows, doors and glazed exterior wall sections under steady-state conditions. Specifically, measurements and calculations made using this procedure can be utilized to determine the thermal transmittance (air-to-air) or U-Factor, the air infiltration rate and/or the condensation resistance factor."AAMA 1503 has been investigated, researched, restructured and thoroughly evaluated by more scientists and interested parties than any other thermal performance test method," says Ken Brenden, AAMA technical standards manager, in the release. "There is every reason to believe that AAMA 1503 is, by far, the industry's most comprehensive and accurate method for directly testing for the air-to-air thermal transmittance and condensation characteristics of architectural products." For AAMA 1503-09, calibration techniques were changed to reflect the significant improvement in window thermal performance over the years and sealing against potential air infiltration has been improved. Other calibration and test techniques were also refined. In addition, a component was added to allow for testing of multiple glazing options via AAMA's 1505 glass library to provide simple, cost-effective and fully-tested U-factor and condensation resistance factor values for the industry, according to the release. Order AAMA 1503-09.