Building Panel Load Testing

Technologies in the building panel industry are undergoing dramatic change to keep up with new materials, new technologies, and new codes. Technologies for testing and evaluating these panels have to keep pace with changes. Improper testing is costly—to your reputation and your profit margin.

Element Materials Technology offers comprehensive analysis of the forces at work on your building panels and Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs. We invest in experienced scientists and cutting-edge equipment to provide you with today’s solutions.

Building Panel Testing Capabilities

Element tests building panels in many different ways, including:

• Axial Load: Element scientists perform this test to determine the wall load carrying capacity.Samples as long as 24 feet can be tested, using steel beams and hydraulic loading rams in our facility.

• Transverse Load: Also known as wind or snow load, this test involves the uniform loading of the panels in a horizontal position. Using the load-deflection characteristics generated during the test, load design charts can be developed.
• Diaphragmatic Load: When building panels are used as the main wind-resisting element, diaphragm testing is needed to develop the load carrying capabilities. This test involves numerous panels mounted to a non-rigid test frame. The sample is then loaded with deflection measurements taken at regular intervals.
• Racking Shear: In addition to transverse and axial loading, wall panels are also subjected to racking shear loads. These tests conducted at Element Materials Technology are intended to simulate wind loadings applied to adjacent wall elements.
• Long Term Transverse Load: Also known as the “Cold Creep” test, it measures the effect of long term load. Panels are supported on each end and subjected to the maximum allowable design load. For 30 days the midspan deflections are monitored. After the 30-day period, scientists remove the load briefly to take readings, and then reapply it for another 30 days.

Collecting data and meeting standards

Element uses state-of-the-art data collection systems to gather and determine the loading characteristics during testing. We test in accordance with ASTM procedures, as well as testing criteria established by building code agencies, such as ICC (International Code Council). Our personnel and facilities are routinely inspected and accredited by the ICC (formerly ICBO), Miami-Dade County, Florida, and the City of Los Angeles.