Unveiled earlier this year to a great reception, out new Ligature-Resistant SHOWER Door System has demonstrated exceptional strength during its robustness testing. We’re pleased to bring you an update on this process below.
Material Testing
Three tests were conducted to test the polycarbonate leaf material to its breaking point. Each test exerted force on the material in an attempt to bend it to its breaking point. The three tests were carried out respectively using human force, a clamp, and both a clamp and vice together. The results of the first two tests were as follows:
• The polycarbonate was difficult to bend by human force
• It easily returned to its original shape after being bent
• It required a clamp to reach 180° and showed no signs of major stress
For the third test, the polycarbonate material was clamped at 180° and then placed in a vice and tightened with extreme force to reach the breaking point, eventually failing in a non-violent way. This scenario would be extremely difficult to replicate without the clamp and vice.
Stress Testing
A winch was used to exert force on the door to determine the strength and failure point.
The results of the Stress Testing showed that the SHOWER Door System can comfortably withstand a constant linear force of over 650lb. Due to limitations with the testing environment, further force could not be applied. Third party destruction testing is set to take place to determine the maximum force.
Static Load Testing
SHOWER was loaded (statically) with 800 lb for 48 hours to test for deformation, fatigue and fracture. 9mm holes were drilled into the polycarbonate door leaf to allow weights to be secured to the door using nylon braided cord. The SHOWER door assembly did not sustain any major damage or fatigue during the static load testing, passing the test and proving robust enough to withstand the 800lb benchmark.
Future Testing
Next to come in the testing process, the Ligature-Resistant SHOWER Door System will be put through a round of independent third party testing. The aim of this stage will be to test the doorset to destruction, the results of which we look forward to sharing with you soon.
If you’d like to learn more about SHOWER or any of our ligature-resistant solutions, why not book an online demonstration?
We’ll provide you with a live product demonstration at a time of your convenience and discuss your project requirements to find the best solutions for your facility. Simply request a demonstration below and we’ll be in touch!