ASTM E1399-97(2009)

Types of architectural joint systems included in this test method are the following:

Metallic systems;

Compression seals:

With frames, and

Without frames,

Strip seals;

Preformed sealant systems (see Appendix X1):

With frames, and

Without frames,

Preformed foams and sponges:

Self-Expanding, and

Nonexpanding,

Fire barriers:

Used as joint systems, and

Used as a part of the joint system, and

Elastomeric membrane systems:

With nosing material(s), and

Without nosing material(s).

This test method will assist users, producers, building officials, code authorities, and others in verifying some performance characteristics of representative specimens of architectural joint systems under common test conditions. The following performance characteristics are verifiable:

The maximum joint width,

The minimum joint width, and

The movement capability.

This test compares similar architectural joint systems by cycling but does not accurately reflect the system's application. Similar refers to the same type of architectural system within the same subsection under 4.1.

This test method does not provide information on:

Durability of the architectural joint system under actual service conditions, including the effects of cycled temperature on the joint system,

Loading capability of the system and the effects of a load on the functional parameters established by this test method,

Rotational, vertical, and horizontal shear capabilities of the specimen,

Any other attributes of the specimen, such as fire resistance, wear resistance, chemical resistance, air infiltration, watertightness, and so forth, and

Testing or compatibility of substrates.

This test method is only to be used as one element in the selection of an architectural joint system for a particular application. It is not intended as an independent pass/fail acceptance procedure. In conjunction with this test method, other test methods are to be used to evaluate the importance of other service conditions such as durability, structural loading, and compatibility.

1.1 This test method covers testing procedures for architectural joint systems. This test method is intended for the following uses for architectural joint systems:

1.1.1 To verify movement capability information supplied to the user by the producer,

1.1.2 To standardize comparison of movement capability by relating it to specified nominal joint widths,

1.1.3 To determine the cyclic movement capability between specified minimum and maximum joint widths without visual deleterious effects, and

1.1.4 To provide the user with graphic information, drawings or pictures in the test report, depicting them at minimum, maximum, and nominal joint widths during cycling.

1.2 This test method is intended to be used only as part of a specification or acceptance criterion due to the limited movements tested.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.