This document specifies test methods for the determination of the bearing capacity (ultimate limit state and serviceability limit state) of infill support which cannot be calculated in accordance with current codes or conventional calculations based upon the strength of the materials or to compare the calculation when necessary.
Three different types of infill (glass) supports are dealt in this standard:
- The cantilever infill (glass) supports, see Figure 1 (a);
- The cruciform infill (glass) supports only fixed to the mullion, see Figure 1 (b);
- Corner infill (glass) supports only fixed to the mullion, see Figure 1 (c).
The test method is intended for the assessment of cantilever infill (glass) supports that have not been tested according to EN 16758 (see Figure 9). The results of the test method can only be interpreted when incorporated with the results from a test in accordance with EN 16758.
It is essential that cruciform and corner infill (glass) supports only fixed to the mullion are tested in accordance with this standard.
The infill (glass) supports connected to the mullion and the transom together are considered as a part of sheared connection and are covered by EN 16758.
Where the mechanical performances of the infill (glass) support is already assessed in accordance with the provisions described in EN 13830, additional information with respect to mechanical performance of the infill (glass) support and direct applications can be determined with this standard.