What is a Spray Rack?

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What is a water spray Rack?

In the world of water intrusion, quality assurance, or forensic leak testing the calibrated spray rack is the tool of choice for the application of water onto a building. The spray rack is used to apply water directly onto a building in a very specific calibrated manner. no matter if the job is forensic or quality assurance the spray rack is the only tool used for this task.
The water-spray system in the context of the document refers to a crucial component used in the E1105 standard test method for determining the resistance of installed exterior windows, skylights, doors, and curtain walls to water penetration. ​ Here is how the water-spray system is described and utilized based on the information provided in the document:

Description of the ASTM Water Spray System

The water-spray system is designed to deliver water uniformly against the exterior surface of the test specimen at a specified rate. ​ It is a key element in the test method to evaluate the water penetration resistance of fenestration products. ​

Whats the Purpose of the Water-Spray System

The primary purpose of the water-spray system is to wet the test specimen uniformly for the purpose of assessing water resistance. ​ It is not intended to replicate specific rain events but to provide a consistent and repeatable process for evaluation.

Water-Spray System Calibration

The water-spray system needs to be calibrated to ensure it delivers water at the specified rate. ​ Calibration involves adjusting the intake water pressure to meet the calibrated pressure requirements as outlined in the standard. ​

Rate of the Water-Spray System

The water-spray system is required to deliver water at a minimum rate of 5.0 U.S. gal/ft2·h (3.4 L/m2·min) during the test. ​ This rate is consistent with the requirements specified in other related test methods like E331 and E547 for fenestration water penetration testing. ​

Adjustability of the Water-Spray System

The system should be adjustable to provide the specified quantity of water in a manner that wets all areas of the test specimen uniformly and targets vulnerable areas to water penetration. ​

Uniformity of the Spray Rack System

The water-spray system should have nozzles spaced on a uniform grid, located at a uniform distance from the test specimen, to ensure uniform water spray coverage. ​

Calibration Verification of the Spray Rack

The calibration of the water-spray system needs to be verified periodically, with recalibration as necessary, but not exceeding intervals of six months.

In summary, the water-spray system is a critical component of the test apparatus used in the E1105 standard to simulate water exposure on exterior building components and assess their resistance to water penetration under specified conditions. ​