Large Missile Impact Testing

A 9-pound 2x4 lumber section launches at 50 feet per second - that's what your impact-rated window must survive before it can be installed in a hurricane zone. Watch the test in action.

9 lb Missile Weight
50 fps Impact Speed
2x4 Lumber Size
ASTM E1886 / TAS 201 Large Missile Test
0
ft/sec
IMPACT RESISTANCE - PASS
34
MPH Equivalent
8 ft
Lumber Length

Large Missile Test Specifications

The numbers behind the most demanding debris impact test.

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9

Pounds

Weight of the 2x4 lumber missile section, representing typical construction debris in hurricane winds.

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50

Feet/Second

Launch velocity equals 34 mph - the calculated speed of wind-borne debris in Category 3+ hurricanes.

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8

Feet Long

Standard 2x4 lumber length. The missile must strike end-on perpendicular to the test specimen.

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9,000

Pressure Cycles

After impact, specimens must survive cyclic pressure testing simulating hours of hurricane conditions.

Required Impact Points

Testing must target the most vulnerable areas of the window or door.

1
2
3
4
5
6
1
Center of glass pane
2-5
Glass corners (all four)
6
Meeting rail / Lock area

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about large missile impact testing.

What is large missile impact testing?
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Large missile testing fires a 9-pound 2x4 lumber section (8 feet long) at 50 feet per second (34 mph) at the test specimen. This simulates flying debris during hurricanes and is required for HVHZ impact-rated products per ASTM E1886 and TAS 201.
Why is 50 feet per second used for large missile tests?
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50 fps (34 mph) represents the typical velocity of wind-borne debris in a Category 3+ hurricane. While winds exceed 130 mph, large debris like lumber doesn't travel at wind speed due to air resistance and tumbling motion.
What happens after the missile impact?
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After impact, the specimen must pass cyclic pressure testing - 9,000 cycles alternating between positive and negative design pressure. This simulates hours of hurricane wind pressure changes. No opening in the building envelope can occur.
Where does the missile hit during testing?
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Per ASTM E1886, the missile must impact the most vulnerable points: center of glass panes, meeting rails, hardware locations, and corners. Multiple impacts at different locations are required for complete certification.

Calculate Your Impact Requirements

Determine if your project needs large missile impact testing based on wind zone and exposure.

Calculate Wind Loads View Pricing