1.1 This test method covers procedures for testing the durability of preassembled, permanently sealed vacuum insulating glass (VIG) units.
1.2 This test method is applicable only to VIG units that are constructed with flat glass lites (glass panes).
1.3 This test method is applicable to units made with two pieces of glass with a vacuum cavity or three pieces of glass with two vacuum cavities.
1.3.1 The VIG component of a hybrid VIG is the only portion of the hybrid configuration that shall be tested according to this test method.
1.4 The unit construction used in this test method contains dimensions that are an essential component of the test. Different types of glass or different glass thicknesses, or both, may affect the test results.
1.5 This test method is applicable to transparent, translucent, and opaque VIG glazing units. Sample sets of the same type shall be tested together.
1.6 This test method does not address thermal breakage, bi-metallic bending, or seal shear strength of the VIG within a temperature field.
1.7 The heat flow meter apparatus (HFMA) used in this test method is used to compare the steady-state one-dimensional heat flux through a VIG specimen from before and after accelerated weathering.
Note 1: Understanding the annexes and appendixes within Test Method C518 is important to address error analysis.
1.8 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.9 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.10 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
