Impact Testing is used to determine whether the specimen will be able to withstand the impact or become unsafe when impacted. There are different kind of impactors such as hard body, soft body impactors, etc.,. The impact strength of the specimen shall be checked by allowing impactor hanging at required drop height to hit the specimen suddenly.
Facade impact testing is a crucial part of ensuring the safety, durability, and performance of building envelope systems—especially glass curtain walls, cladding, and other exterior facade components.
Here’s why it matters:
- Safety
- Protection from flying debris: Particularly important in regions prone to hurricanes or high winds. The test ensures the facade can withstand impacts from airborne projectiles (e.g., wood, metal).
- Glass breakage risk: Prevents shattering and dangerous shards from falling on people below.
- Code Compliance
- Required by various building codes and standards (e.g. ASTM E 2353, ANSI Z97.1- 2015, BS EN 12600-0, CWCT Technical Note 76).
- Compliance is mandatory for occupancy permits in many jurisdictions, especially in high-risk areas.
- Structural Integrity
- Tests how well the facade maintains its structure under impact conditions.
- Reveals weak points in mounting systems, connections, and joints.
- Product Development & Quality Assurance
- Helps manufacturers improve materials and designs.
- Confirms that construction meets performance specifications.
- Environmental Resistance
- Ensures the building envelope resists not only mechanical impact but also secondary effects like water and air infiltration after an impact.