Solarium Glaze Load Test

[ July / 1989 ]
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In July 1989, we had a question to ask ourselves. What would be the maximum load factor
of our solariums? We were receiving more calls to do commercial work, and of course each
project was in need of permits, plus firms wanting tenders, also required an engineering report.
We had to act quickly. A test assembly was constructed, the weight arrived (2.5 pallets of bricks),
and the engineers were all on site.

Engineers Comments:
"The test results were logged, and the relationship between load and the vertical deflection was graphed. Loading continued until it was observed that creep deflection started to occur under the determined maximum constant load, hence at this point unloading was initiated."

As you will note below, our system is rated at:

Load = 50.7 lb/sq/ft - or - 105.7 lb/lineal foot per Rafter

Please bear in mind, that this will be sufficient for most areas of the 100 year cycles of heavy snow load. Also observe the degree of downward flex (5.08"), on the Rafters at maximum load. Upon complete weight unloading - this flex relaxed to 1/4" of the original true state.

Can you imagine what would happen to glass at this deflection ??
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3520 lb. Load Shown

MAXIMUM LOAD TEST RESULTS SUMMARY:

Glaze: 1/8" Acrylic Beams: T5 Aluminum	Span Length: 10'0"	Width: 4'2"	Centers: 25"
Load: 50.7 lb/sq/ft	Load/Rafter: 105.7 lb/lin. ft.	Deflection (inches): Vert. = 5.08 in.	Deflection (inches): Horiz. = 0.64 in.

Note: Original sheet thickness was 1/8", today we utilize 3/16" as standard glaze thickness.
All center to center Rafter dimensions are now 26 1/8".

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Contact:
EST Dev/Comm

EST Dev/Comm
Email: info@est-dev.com
FAX / Voice Mail: +1.250.385.9804

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