This test method provides a standard procedure to evaluate or confirm structural performance under uniform static air pressure difference. This procedure is intended to represent the effects of uniform loads on exterior building surface elements.

It is also permissible to develop data for load-span tables by interpolating between the test results at different spans.

Note 1—When applying the results of tests to determine allowable design loads by application of a factor of safety, bear in mind that the performance of a wall or roof and its components, or both, can be a function of fabrication, installation, and adjustment. The specimen must represent the actual structure closely. In service, the performance can 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, and so forth.

1.1 This test method covers the evaluation of the structural performance of sheet metal panels and anchor-to-panel attachments for roof or siding systems under uniform static air pressure differences using a test chamber or support surface.

1.2 The provisions of this test method are applicable to standing seam, trapezoidal, ribbed, or corrugated metal panels in the range of thickness from 0.012 to 0.050-in. (0.3 to 1.3-mm) and apply to the evaluation of uniform pressure applied to single-skin construction or one sheet metal layer of multiple-skin construction. They do not cover requirements for the construction of a specimen to determine the load sharing that can occur with either composite or multiple-layer construction such as: (1) metal cladding over wood sheathing; or (2) field assemblies of insulation sandwiched between corrugated or formed metal panels.

1.3 Proper use of this test method requires knowledge of the principles of pressure and deflection measurement.

1.4 This test method describes optional apparatus and procedures for use in evaluating the structural performance of a given system for a range of support spacings or for confirming the structural performance of a specific installation.

1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The metric equivalents of inch-pound units are approximate.

1.6 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes exclusive of those for tables and figures. These notes and footnotes provide explanatory material and shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.7 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 precautionary statements, see Section 7.