AAMA Updates Test Methods

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recently updated the AAMA 1506-18 “Voluntary Test Method for Laboratory Heat Build-Up Effects on Fenestration Products,” document. The document was first released in 2004, “describing a standardized test to evaluate heat build-up effects due to infrared (IR) exposure on fenestration products,” according to the association. This is the document’s first update since its creation.

The document changes include the aligning Section 7.3.2.1 to ASTM D4803 rather than G179 since D4803 is specifically for building products. D4803 is also referenced in AAMA 303, “Voluntary Specification for Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Exterior Profiles,” which was updated by AAMA at the same time. A footnote was removed to maintain clarity and a consistent and standardized testing method.
“This test method exposes fenestration products to a uniform field of IR energy directed at the product at an angle similar to outdoor exposure during the summer months in hot and dry climates in the U.S.,” says Jeff Franson chair of the AAMA 1506 vinyl profile heat build-up task group. “Changes made to this document now mean it, and AAMA 303, are more consistent when it comes to testing.”

According to the association, the updated test method alters the exterior ambient temperature and cycles the IR exposure to better simulate daytime exposure of fenestration products. This test method may accelerate dimensional and shape changes due to temperature and IR exposure cycling. The test is recommended for use on fenestration products that have a greater tendency to absorb IR energy. This test method can be used by designers and specifiers to evaluate the fenestration products resistance to dimensional and shape changes that may occur due to heating by solar radiation.
AAMA 1506-18, as well as other AAMA documents, may be purchased from AAMA’s online store.