Experience of Field Tests of Window Units of Various Composition for Shock Wave Resistance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32347/2410-2547.2025.115.383-395Keywords:
glazing systems, explosion resistance, shock wave, field testsAbstract
This paper reviews the experience of a series of practical tests of samples of translucent structures for resistance to shock wave. The tests were conducted in 2023-2024 at a testing range near Kyiv in the territory of an abandoned industrial building. The samples had the same size, but differed in the material and brand of profiles (PVC and aluminum), the presence of additional reinforcement, the type and thickness of glass sheets, and the brand of fittings. Most consisted of one blind section and one sash, separated by a central rack, except for the last tests, where samples of other configurations were tested. According to the test results, some samples were assigned shock wave resistance classes EXR1 or EXR2, which is confirmed by the test protocols.
The tests were accompanied by photos of samples before and after the test and measurements of conditions using pressure free-field (side-on) sensor and reflected target sensor near the specimen.
The statistics of the test results show that the use of laminated glass is a necessary prerequisite for ensuring the resistance class and preventing the occurrence of secondary impact elements. At the same time, the use of protective films and tempered glass does not provide the expected advantages.
Windows with PVC profiles with a thickness of 82 mm are able to provide the resistance class EXR1, but at higher loads they lead to the destruction of the profiles and the penetration of fragments into the room. To ensure the EXR2 class, it is necessary to use aluminum profiles or PVC with reinforcement. In this case, a sample of a window with two sashes was destroyed under similar conditions. Thus, the result also depends not only on the composition, but also on the configuration of the window - the ratio of blind sections and sashes in it. The study of this factor using digital modeling methods and full-scale tests is planned in the authors' subsequent works.
The study is important as a direction for reducing harm to the life and health of the population of countries have suffered damage due to military actions.
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