ASTM E 283

Active Standard:  E283-04 Standard Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen

Developed by Subcommittee:  E06.51

See Related Work by this Subcommittee

Adoptions:  DOD Adopted; Building Codes; ANSI Approved

Book of Standards Volume:  04.11

Scope

1. This test method covers a standard laboratory procedure for determining the air leakage rates of exterior windows, curtain walls and doors under specified differential pressure conditions across the specimen.  The test method described is for tests with constant temperature and humidity across the specimen.
   
   
2. This laboratory procedure is applicable to exterior windows, curtain walls, and doors and is intended to measure only such leakage associated with the assembly, and not the installation.  The test method can be adapted for the latter purpose.
   
   (Note:  Performing tests at non-ambient conditions or with a temperature differential across the specimen may affect the air leakage rate.  This is not addressed by this test method.)
   
   
3. This test method is intended for laboratory use.  Persons interested in performing field air leakage tests on installed units should reference Test Method E 783.
   
   
4. Persons using this procedure should be knowledgeable in the areas of fluid mechanics, instrumentation practices, and shall have a general understanding of fenestration products and components.
   
   
5. Throughout this test method, SI units are listed first in accordance with E06 metric policy, and shall be considered primary units.  Non-SI units are provided in paranthesis for reference purposes.
   
   
6. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with it's 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.