APPARATUS: The apparatus consists of 1/8" steel plate measuring approximately 14" x 30". The plate is reinforced as necessary with angle, tube or channel to prevent its buckling, warping or twisting when under tension loads parallel but offset from its surface. The apparatus is securely anchored to the test table along the 14" dimension, and sufficiently braced to the table to prevent excessive deflection during the test.

SPECIMEN: The test specimen shall consist of a section of a typical panel seam of the desired panel material as reported on the "Specimen Information Section," which is 30" (+/-) in length to conduct tensile pulls with different clamp locations along the panel seam. The total width of the specimen is at least 10" and not more than 16". The seam is to be mated as generally prescribed by its manufacturer or user in a normal installation, exclusive of any attachment clips. If the joint is normally machine seamed on site, the provider furnishes same in a seamed condition, using the same type seaming machinery, methods, tools, equipment, etc. as would be used in actual field assemblies.

SETUP: Attach the specimen to the apparatus using #12 or #14 self-drilling screws along and adjacent to the panel seam in sufficient quantity and spacing so as to prevent failure of the panels’ attachment to the apparatus during the test.

Up to three S-5! clamps may be tested on the same panel specimen. Place clamps on the panel seam, evenly spaced from each other, and so that the end of the lower clamp on the specimen (most leeward from load) is a minimum of 6" from the lower end of the specimen. The set screws of the clamps are tensioned to the stated tension using a torque wrench. Unless other specific instruction is given, tighten and verify all clamp set screws to indicated tension. Sequentially retighten set screws if necessary as panel seam material compresses. Mark the location of the clamp(s) on the panel seam so that any differential movement between seam and clamp can be monitored.

Procedure
Securely fasten the load cell arms to the hole(s) through the S-5! clamp using 7/16", or 3/8" diameter bolts as appropriate for the hole size. Beginning at the lowest clamp (closest to test bed), load each clamp with upward pull at .25 inch per minute (parallel to seam) until failure*. Photograph the specimen after testing.

Reporting
Record the tensile value in pounds at the failure* point along with the failure* mode for each S-5! clamp tested. Calculate and record "mean" values. Note any unusual observations of the specimen during testing, as well as a verbal description of the specific failure* observed if it is other than type "A" or "B." Record the date of test, date of report, name of lab, name of technician and execute the completed data sheet.

*Failure
For the purpose of this test, any of the following occurrences shall be considered "failure":

A. Disengagement of clamp from panel seam

B. Clamp displacement of a distance of more than 8 millimeters (.315")

C. Breakage or fracturing of clamp or fasteners

D. Strippage of the clamp set screws

E. Fracturing of any area of panel seam

F. Buckling or any other structural or severe cosmetic damage to panel seam