5.1 This test method gives a standard procedure for determining structural performance under uniform static air pressure difference. This typically is intended to represent the effects of wind loads on exterior building surface elements. The actual loading on building surfaces is quite complex, varying with wind direction, time, height above ground, building shape, terrain, surrounding structures, and other factors. These factors are discussed in the literature in 2.2 and 2.3 and Footnotes 4 and 5.

Note 1: In applying the results of tests by this test method, it should be borne in mind that the performance of a cladding system may be a function of fabrication, installation, and adjustment, and that the specimen may or may not truly represent the actual structure. In service, the performance will also depend on the rigidity of supporting construction and on the resistance of components to deterioration by various causes, to vibration, to thermal expansion and contraction, etc.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the structural performance of dimension stone cladding systems under positive and negative uniform static air pressure differences, using a test chamber.

1.2 The proper use of this test method requires a knowledge of the principles of pressure and deflection measurement.

1.3 This test method describes the apparatus and the procedure to be used for applying either specific test loads or unknown ultimate values of uniformity distributed test loads to a specimen.

1.3.1 Procedure A (see 11.2) shall be used when deflections at maximum load only are required.

1.3.2 Procedure B (see 11.3) shall be used when a load-deflection curve is required.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see Section 7.