A specialty sealant helps window manufacturers assemble windows that will withstand hurricane winds. The cured strength of this specialty sealant far surpasses the strength that could be achieved with other bonding technologies.

Called PURFECT GLAZE PG38A sealant, this product has passed tests designed to simulate hurricane-speed winds and pressure changes. The tests include Southern Code Congress International Inc. (SBCCI) STD-1299, ASTM E1886 and E 1996, as well as TDI 1-98. The tests also followed procedures set forth by Metro Dade County, (Fla.) protocols PA 201-94 for impact and PA 203-94 — criteria for testing products subjected to cyclic wind-pressure loading.

For air, water and structural properties, the tests included ASTM E773 (weathering chamber), ASTM E23 for air infiltration, ASTM E331 for water resistance and ASTM E330 for structural performance. These tests are required for constructions in coastal building zones.

One test included shooting a 17-foot-long, 2-inch by 4-inch board at approximately 50 feet per second from a canon at a window that was made with the sealant. Technicians then affixed the impacted window to a test wall and subjected the window to 4,500 positive and 4,500 negative pressure cycles, which simulated what the construction would experience during a passing storm.

A number of window designs were tested to provide builders and architects latitude in their constructions. Such rigorous testing ensures reliability under hurricane conditions.

For more information:

For more information on PURFECT GLAZE PG38A sealant, contact National Adhesives Information Center, One Matrix Drive, Monroe, NJ 08831; call 800-797-4992; fax 609-409-5699; e-mail nscinquiry@salessupport.com; or visit the Web site http://www.nationalstarch.com.