Currently, two European directives apply as a reference for ballistics. They provide a framework for tests and classifications related to bullet resistance:
- EN 1063: for the tests on glass in construction (safety glass).
- EN 1522-1523: for the tests on windows, doors and shutters.
These standards differ on a number of points:
- the construction elements subject to the tests;
- another classification, illustrated by the letters “BR” for the glazing classes and “FB” for the classes of windows, doors and shutters;
- tests that focus only on the element itself (standard EN 1063); additional tests of the joints and structures (standard EN 1522-1523).
The standard for laboratory tests imposes a whole series of parameters in order to always obtain comparable test results. The ballistics tests must be performed according to the procedure described in standard EN 1522-1523 and by accredited laboratories. We conduct our bulletproof tests in two of those official labs:
- the Banc national d’épreuve de Saint-Etienne (France)
- the laboratory of the weapon systems and ballistics department of the Royal Military Academy of Brussels (KMS)
During the EN 1063 tests, the impact is directed, three times, towards the center of the tested glass to check the resistance of the element’s intrinsic composition. This test also takes place for doors and windows (EN 1522-1523). In addition to the first test, the EN 1522-1523 standard also checks the connections between the various elements.
Below is an example of a complete test with the different impact points on a sample of a fixed frame with glazing, a solid fixed frame and a frame with a hinged opening.
Each connection will be tested by 3 shots in different spots (except the lock and cylinder test which are unique).
- connection between glazing and crossbar
- connection between solid infill and crossbeam
- connection between fixed window and the frame
- connection between wing and sill
- connection between opening window and frame, on the lock side
- connection between opening window and frame, on the hinge side
- connection between glazing and opening profile
- key lock
- cylinder
- connection between frame and masonry*
* this point is not imposed in the standard but for the sake of consistency and rigor we impose this test in order to have a complete and guaranteed bulletproof solution.
