What is AMCA 540?

AMCA 540 is the Test Method for Louvers Impacted by Wind Borne Debris. The International Building Code and the Florida Building Code dictates that louvers installed within 30 ft. of grade in the Wind-Borne Debris Region of the Hurricane-Prone Region need to comply with AMCA 540. The AMCA 540 standard subjects a louver to the impacts of a 9 lb. 2 x 4 traveling at either 34 MPH (Missile Level D) or 55 MPH (Missile Level E). While Missile Level D is required for most commercial construction, Missile Level E is required for all critical or enhanced facilities and should be specified as such. The louver must show that the 2 x 4 does not pass through the louver and that the louver components maintain connectivity. Complete cosmetic destruction is acceptable.