Mechanical Equipment – Does It Need To Qualify For Large Missile Impact? Questions frequently arise as to what the rule is in Florida, Miami, and the HVHZ zone (Dade and Broward Counties, FL) under the Florida Building Code (FBC) for impact rating on mechanical equipment. The answer also has similar references in the International Building …
Size Limitations For Impact Rated Products A Frequent question is what are the span, height, pressure, and installation limitations for large & small missile impact products. The following takes into consideration the Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) limitations for designing & installing operable and non-operable windows/glass doors & impact protection devices. For Operable Windows …
What are The Span Limitations of Large Missile Impact Doors – Windows – Shutters? Read More »
Overview of Missile Impact Levels As adopted in the 2023 Florida Building Code and the 2021 International Building Code, ASTM E1996-17 defines how exterior glazing systems (windows, doors, curtain walls) for habitable structures should resist windborne debris during hurricanes. The Five Missile Impact Levels Level A — Small Missile Impact A 2 g steel ball …
Understanding Missile Level E Requirements in Florida When it comes to hurricane protection, not all impact ratings are created equal. Missile Level E, defined under ASTM E1996, represents the highest standard for windows, doors, and protective systems facing windborne debris. Unlike Level D, Level E is designed to withstand a 9-lb 2×4 fired at 80 ft/s, …
What are the requirements for using ASTM Missile Level E in Florida and the US? Read More »
Overview Changes to the 2020 Florida Building Code for Porous Impact Protection Devices Porous Impact Protective Systems: ASTM E1996-12A brought a significant change to Porous Impact Protective Systems (PIPS). A Porous Impact Protective System is defined as “An assembly whose aggregate open area exceeds 10% of its projected surface area”. Prior to ASTM E1996-12A, any …
What’s The Difference Between ASD & LRFD Design? Put in layman’s terms, think of a wood plank designed to stretch between two supports. You’re going to walk across the piece of wood. The person that designed that plank needed to figure out if it will hold you. They had two options when designing: 1) Reduce …
