Chamber Spray Rack Test
Curtain wall or façade’s performance can also be assessed using the chamber spray rack test for water and/or moisture infiltration testing. Curtain walls, Doors, windows and skylights, among other parts, are examined to assess and identify problems.
A frame or scaffolding holding a number of nozzles or sprinkler heads is called a spray rack. These nozzles mimic the distribution and intensity of rainfall by spraying water at a precise pace and pressure.
Using a Retrotec blowerdoor or ductester, a negative pressure is produced inside a chamber constructed inside while the spray test is conducted on the opposite side externally. Allowing the sprayed water to penetrate the surface if any leakage is present.
The purpose of the water intrusion spray rack is to test building components' resistance to water penetration and any leaks by exposing them to a controlled water spray.
Incorporating smoke tests or thermal imaging using infrared cameras are other ways to find moisture leaks in the building envelope while conducting this spray test. The spray rack is used for this type of moisture intrusion testing without the need for destructive tests. Results help in improving building designs, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing more reliable waterproofing systems.
Spray Rack Testing Standards
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ASTM E 1105 - Standard Test Method for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Installed Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform or Cyclic Static Air Pressure)
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AAMA 502 - Voluntary Specification for Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products
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AAMA 503 - Provides specific details for testing procedures to ensure air and moisture penetration is minimized in newly installed fenestration systems.
