Static load testing verifies the capacity of the Sun-Link™ system to withstand a static load of 1.5 times the design basis wind load. Review of ASCE 7-02 Figure 6.1 shows that most of the land area of the continental US has a design-basis basic wind speed of 90 mph (~ 21 psf). Here “90 mph” refers to a “3-second gust wind speed in miles per hour at 33 feet above ground for Exposure Class C.”

In reference to static load capability of PV modules, UL 1703, Paragraph 41.2 states:

"The design load is to be 30 lb/ft2 positive (downward) or negative (upward); or a design load designated by the manufacturer, whichever is greater. A load of 1.5 times the design load shall be applied for all tests other than the negative (upward) load on the above-roof mounting configuration "

Since modules are typically tested front and back at 1.5 times 30 psf, Eastwood tests Sun-Link™ by loading first the front side and then the back side of the test configuration at the higher loading of 50 psf. In this respect, in addition to meeting the test loading requirements set forth in UL 1703, Eastwood’s static load testing utilizes the testing procedures set forth in ASTM E 1830-01: “Standard Test Methods for Determining Mechanical Integrity of Photovoltaic Modules.” In this test, Eastwood not only verifies the structural capacity of the system but additionally verifies that the modules remain electrically functional during and after test loading.