FOREWORD

This manual is intended to help air system designers and users select and apply louvers for industrial and
commercial applications.

The first step in selecting any louver should be to check that its published data is accompanied by the
AMCA Certified Ratings Seal.

This seal means that the product’s ratings are based on tests made in accordance with AMCA Standard
500: that those ratings have been checked by the AMCA Technical staff and that the product is subject
to continuing rechecks in the AMCA Testing Laboratory. There is no better guarantee of reliable
performance.

AMCA (Air Movement and Control Association, Inc.) is an international trade association representing
manufacturers of industrial, commercial and residential fans and airflow control devices such as shutters,
louvers and dampers.

This publication was compiled by the members of the AMCA Louvers Section Project Committee listed
below:

LOUVERS APPLICATION MANUAL PROJECT COMMITTEE

Kirby McLaughlin Airline Products Company

Jeff Cottrell The Airolite Company
Roger A. Lichtenwald American Warming & Ventilating
Vincent Kreglewicz Arrow United Industries, Inc.
Steve Treat CESCO Products
William Vincent Construction Specialties, Inc.
James W. Sterriker Industrial Louvers, Inc.
Bob Van Becelaere Ruskin Manufacturing, Tomkins Industries
Jim Fiala Vent Products Co., Inc.
Paul R. Saxon AMCA Staff

DISCLAIMER

This manual has been prepared by the Air Movement and Control Association, Inc. (AMCA). The
information contained in this manual has been derived from many sources and is believed to be accurate.
Please note that the recommendations contained herein do not necessarily represent the only methods
or procedures appropriate for the situation discussed, but rather are intended to present consensus
opinions and practices of the air movement and control industry which may be helpful, or of interest, to
those who design, test, install, operate or maintain fan-duct systems. Thus, AMCA disclaims any and all
warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this manual and
further disclaims any liability for the use or misuse of this information. AMCA does not guarantee, certify
or assure the performance of any fan-duct system designed, tested, installed, operated or maintained on
the basis of the information provided in this manual.

Comments and suggestions for subsequent editions are solicited and should be directed to:

AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL ASSOCIATION, INC.

30 West University Drive
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-1893, U.S.A.
 AMCA PUBLICATION 501-93

APPLICATION MANUAL FOR AIR LOUVERS

©1986 by Air Movement and Control Association, Inc.

©1993 by Air Movement and Control Association, Inc.

Air Movement and Control Association, Inc.

30 West University Drive
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-1893 U.S.A.
 CONTENTS

Section Page Section Page

1. PURPOSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 8.2 Fabrication Methods . . . . . . . 12

8.3 Structural Support . . . . . . . . . 13
2. SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 8.4 Louver Structurals-Calculations 13

3. APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 9. ACCESSORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.1 Air Moving Systems . . . . . . . . 1 9.1 Sills and Flashing . . . . . . . . . 15
3.2 Architectural Aesthetics . . . . 2 9.2 Subframes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
9.3 Actuator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4. LOUVER DESIGNS . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 9.4 Mullion Covers/Batten Plates . 16
4.1 Frames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 9.5 Screens and Grilles . . . . . . . . 16
4.2 Basic Fixed Blades . . . . . . . 3 9.6 Blank Off Panels . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.3 Drainable Fixed Blades . . . . 4 9.7 Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.4 Adjustable Blades . . . . . . . . 4 9.8 Gaskets and Seals . . . . . . . . . 16
4.5 Sightproof Louver . . . . . . . . 4 9.9 Security Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.6 Acoustical Louver . . . . . . . . 5
4.7 Sand Louver . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 10. FINISHES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.8 Sun Screens/Sun Canopies . 5 10.1 Mill Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.9 Equipment Screens . . . . . . . 5 10.2 Prime Coat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
10.3 Etch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5. TESTING 10.4 Clear Anodize . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.1 AMCA Standard 500 . . . . . . . 5 10.5 Color Anodize . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.2 AMCA Publication 511 . . . . . 5 10.6 Baked Enamel . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.3 Louver Free Area . . . . . . . . . 5 10.7 Fluorocarbon Coatings . . . . . . 17
5.4 Air Performance-Pressure Drop 7 10.8 Powdered Coatings . . . . . . . . 18
5.5 Water Penetration . . . . . . . . 7
5.6 Air Leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 11. INSTALLATION METHODS . . . . . . . . 18
5.7 Sound Transmission Loss . . . 7 11.1 Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
11.2 Metal Subframe . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6. SYSTEM EFFECTS . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 11.3 Structural Steel . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.1 Inlet and Outlet Conditions . . 8 11.4 Wood Frames . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.2 Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 11.5 Free Standing Columns . . . . . . 19
6.3 Wind Velocities . . . . . . . . . . 8 11.6 Roof Curb for Penthouses . . . . 19

7. LOUVER SELECTION . . . . . . . . . . 8 APPENDIX

7.1 Determination of Performance 8 A Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
7.2 Louver Available Free Area
Determination . . . . . . . . . . . 8 FIGURE (For Examples Only)
7.3 Example 1 Air Performance 10 Typical Louver and
Pressure Drop . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Frame Cross-Sections . . . . . . . . . . . 6
7.4 Example 2 Water Penetration 11 Example Pressure Drop Chart . . . . . 10
Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 12 Example water Penetration Chart . . . 11
7.5 Example 3 Air Leakage 13 Example Infiltration Air Leakage Chart 12
Determination . . . . . . . . . . . 9
7.6 Penthouse Sizing . . . . . . . . 10 TABLE
1 Example Free Area Chart
8. BASIC CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . 12 (Square Feet) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
8.1 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
 AMCA Publication 501-93

1. PURPOSE ing air movement and aesthetics.

The intent of this publication is to provide informa- 3.1 AIR MOVING SYSTEMS
tion and important points to be considered when
designing or specifying installations requiring Louvers are used in many air moving applications,
louvers. It is not the purpose of this manual to be most commonly HVAC intake and exhaust sys-
used for detailed specifications. However, it tems, or general ventilation. They are usually
serves as a guide toward understanding the installed in openings of interior or exterior walls,
various types of louvers available and includes roof penthouses and ductwork.
items to be considered to ensure their proper use.
Louvers for these systems may be either fixed
2. SCOPE blade, adjustable blade, or a combination of fixed
and adjustable blade louvers (see Figure 1).
This publication outlines the application of louvers
including selection for air resistance, air leakage The designer tries to select a louver to perform
and water penetration. Examples of louver selec- efficiently within the system parameters. Often he
tion are included. An important section, Sys- is required to fit a louver into an existing opening
tem Effects, should not be overlooked when or into one of a predetermined size and still have
applying performance data, (see Section 6). the louver perform within the system design for
For complete information on testing, refer to pressure drop, velocity, water penetration, etc.
AMCA Standard 500. AMCA Publication 511
contains information on the Certified Ratings Louver manufacturers offer a variety of blade
Program (see Section 5.2). designs to meet system requirements. Various
frame depths and blade angles accommodate
Common industry practices in louver construction different types of building construction such as
are also discussed. Mounting and suggested thin wall, curtain wall, steel and masonry open-
fastening methods for typical structures have been ings. These provide a variety of louver perfor-
included to assist the installer. mance data to meet the design criteria. An
adjustable louver serves the same purpose as a
fixed blade louver with the added feature of blade
3. APPLICATION
adjustment to achieve air control and additional
weather protection. These louvers may be operat-
Some general descriptive information is given here
ed manually or with powered actuators.
to help the reader relate to the application of
louvers. The data are divided into segments cover

FIXED BLADE LOUVER ADJUSTABLE LOUVER COMBINATION LOUVER

Figure 1
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AMCA Publication 501-93

3.2 ARCHITECTURAL AESTHETICS normally be visible. Continuous line construction

is available for most louvers offering an uninter-
Louvers are often installed in exterior walls visible rupted blade line. Blade braces and a vertical
to the public. Besides providing the design support fastened to the louver blades replace the
function, the louver also must be neat, clean and visible mullion at the support point, leaving only a
pleasing in appearance. Many styles are available minimal visible joint (see Figure 2).
in both horizontal and vertical line construction to
blend with the building aesthetics. Often louvers are required to take an angular turn
If they are to be used for a louvered penthouse,
Louvers are produced in maximum single section enclosure, or a building corner. Many blades and
sizes as dictated by shipping, handling, or finish- frames can be mitered and joined providing a
ing limitations. When multiple louver sections are continuous line effect if visible mullions at the
required to fit an opening, the framework of the corner are objectionable (see Figure 3).
joined louver sections in that opening would

FIGURE 2

FIGURE 3

2
 AMCA Publication 501-93

4. LOUVER DESIGNS the perimeter to prevent leakage between the

louver and the adjacent wall construction.
4.1 FRAMES
4.2 BASIC FIXED BLADES
Louver frames can generally be classified as
“channel type” or “flange type” (see Figure 4). These blades, (see Figures 5 and 6) plain or with
Both are generally fabricated smaller than the center baffle, are positioned at various angles
clear opening for ease of installation (see Section within the frame. The final determination is a
11, Installation). The “channel type” is usually compromise of airflow, pressure drop and water
mounted from flush to slightly inside the face of penetration performance (see Section 7 for more
the building, while the “flange type” overlaps the detailed information).
opening. Both types should be caulked around

CHANNEL TYPE INTERIOR FLANGE EXTERIOR FLANGE

TYPE TYPE
Figure 4

PLAIN BLADE BLADE WITH CENTER BAFFLE DRAINABLE FIXED BLADE

Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7
3
AMCA Publication 501-93

4.3 DRAINABLE FIXED BLADES where from the full open to full closed position.
Most fixed blade shapes are available in adjust-
These blades are usually set from 30° to 45° able blade models. Refer to Section 5.5 for
angles with a gutter or rain trough at the lower performance testing and to Section 9.3 for actua-
edge (see Figure 7). This trough drains water to tors that are available. (See Figure 1 and 16).
the jambs, where it is then channeled to the
bottom of the unit and away from the opening 4.5 SIGHTPROOF LOUVER
thus minimizing the cascading of water from blade
to blade. Sightproof louvers may be installed with vertical or
horizontal blades. The “Y,” “Z,” and “V” blades are
Downspouts in the jamb frame are provided to the most common shapes. Sightproof louvers are
drain blades. Blade length must be limited to used for ventilation, weather protection, prevention
prevent water from overflowing the blade drain of vandalism or insertion of foreign objects (see
channel. Figure 8).

4.4 ADJUSTABLE BLADES

These blades rotate within the louver frame, any

“Y” BLADE “Z” BLADE “V” BLADE

Figure 8 Vertical Blades - Horizontal Sections Shown

4
 AMCA Publication 501-93

4.6 ACOUSTICAL LOUVER obtained the proper license from AMCA, can offer
products bearing the AMCA Certified Ratings Seal
This louver permits ventilation and decreases the (see AMCA Publication 511). The purpose of the
transmission of sound by its special construction. AMCA Certified Ratings Seal is to offer a reason-
However, due to the task it Is required to perform, able assurance that a product will perform in
pressure drop and free area may be sacrificed. accordance with the manufacturer’s published test
Therefore, openings for acoustical louvers may be data. Therefore, if a particular products’s ratings
larger than for basic type louvers (see Figure 9). comply with the performance criteria specified, it
should provide an acceptable application, all other
4.7 SAND LOUVER requirements being satisfied. Louvers are retested
every three years to ensure compliance with pub-
This louver is used in areas subjected to sand lished data.
storms and is designed to trap some of the partic-
ulate within the body of the louver. 5.3 LOUVER FREE AREA

4.8 SUN SCREENS/SUN CANOPIES The louver Free Area is the minimum area
through which air can pass; it varies with louver
These are louvers attached to buildings to deflect size. Only by comparing airflow through the free
direct sunlight. Special consideration should be area of louvers can viable air performance com-
given to the structural support of these units when parisons be made. The percent free area is the
a cantilever design is used. calculated louver free area divided by the louver
gross area x 100.
4.9 EQUIPMENT SCREENS

Louvers may be used to screen HVAC electrical or

mechanical equipment from view. Blade design
for these louvers may vary to meet specific free
areas, degrees of vision barrier requirements or to
match adjacent walls. Blades may be installed
either vertically or horizontally. (See Figure 8.)

5. TESTING

To properly apply louvers to air handling applica-

tions, it is necessary to have an understanding of
the air performance to be expected from various
louver designs. Performance parameters for
louvers must be established by testing according
to procedures given in AMCA Standard 500.

5.1 AMCA STANDARD 500

AMCA Standard 500, Test Methods for Louvers,

Dampers, and Shutters, is a publication of the Air
Movement and Control Association (AMCA). The
standard establishes uniform test methods for
determining Pressure Drop, Water Penetration
and Air Leakage rates.

5.2 AMCA Publication 511 ACOUSTICAL

LOUVER
Manufacturers having their products tested in an
AMCA Registered Laboratory, with the test results
verified by the AMCA technical staff, and having Figure 9

5
AMCA Publication 501-93

The louver free area percentage selected must be the minimum distances between intermediate
considered in relationship to the air performance- blades, top blade and head, and bottom blade and
Pressure Drop, (Section 5.4) and Water Pene- sill, by the minimum distance between jambs. The
tration (Section 5.5) requirements for the louver. percent free area is the free area thus calculated,
divided by the gross area of the louver x 100 (see
Calculations Figure 10).
Free Area is determined by multiplying the sum of

TYPE 1 SECTIONS TYPE 2 SECTIONS TYPE 3 SECTIONS

Where:
A = Minimum distance, in inches, between
the head and top blade.
B = Minimum distance, in inches, between
the sill and bottom blade.
C = Minimum distance, in inches, between
adjacent blades. Note that in louver
Type 2, C1 may not be equal to C2 and
the minimum C should be used.
N = Number of “C” openings in the louver.
L = Minimum distance, in inches, between
louver jambs.
W = Actual louver width, in inches.
H = Actual louver height, in inches.

Figure 10 Typical Louver and Frame Cross-Sections Showing Minimum Distance Formulae

6
 AMCA Publication 501-93

5.4 AIR PERFORMANCE-PRESSURE DROP addressed. The measurement of the amount of

water “dragged” in by the airflow through the
The air performance of a louver louver is the end result of this test. For many
is described by the Pressure rain conditions, this data is accurate and usable
Drop across the louver for a for selection of louvers to control Water Penetra-
given flow rate of air through the tion. In the AMCA Standard 500 test, velocities
Free Area. The two factors in through the free area of the louver are limited to
this statement, the pressure drop 1250 fpm (approximately 14 mph).
and the airflow are determined in
the airflow test procedures given 5.6 AIR LEAKAGE
in AMCA Standard 500.
The performance of adjustable
Most louvers are mounted in walls. Therefore, louvers is measured not only for
partition type tests (Standard 500 Figures 5.4 or the same characteristics as sta-
5.5) are normally used for pressure drop versus tionary louvers, but also for Air
airflow performance determination. All test results Leakage in the closed position.
are corrected to standard air density to permit Options are available to reduce
direct comparison of any test results regardless of leakage, including seals (gas-
air conditions during the test. kets) and weather stripping on
blades and jambs. AMCA Stan-
In establishing the volume flow - Pressure Drop dard 500 covers the testing of
relationship of a louver, per AMCA Standard 500, adjustable louvers, dampers and shutters for Air
a minimum of 5 determinations of equal incre- Leakage. Test results include a statement of the
ments of volume flow and the resulting pressure seating torque, or force, holding the device
drops are used. The normal plot of this data as it closed.
is given in manufacturer’s catalogs shows velocity
through the Free Area plotted against Pressure 5.7 SOUND TRANSMISSION LOSS
Drop; this is usually done by using a full loga-
rithmic graph which exhibits the data as a straight The American Society for Testing and Materials
line (see Figure 11). Standard E90, Standard Method for Laboratory
Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission
5.5 WATER PENETRATION Loss of Building Partitions has been recognized
by AMCA for testing sound transmission loss
There are two factors that can through acoustical louvers.
cause water to pass through a
louver. The airflow passing This standard uses two reverberant rooms separat-
through a louver in its normal in- ed by a wall with an opening between the rooms.
take application is one factor; One room is a sound source room, and the other
however, a second is the effect is a receiving room. Virtually all of the sound
created by the action of wind generated in the sound source room is transmitted
blowing onto the louver (see to the receiving room when the opening is left
Section 6.3). The airflow factor unfilled.
is covered by the Water Pene-
tration test per AMCA Standard 500. A louver that fills the opening usually blocks some
of the sound generated in the sound source room,
The AMCA Standard 500 estimates the point of preventing some of the sound from being trans-
beginning of water penetration for the still water mitted to the receiving room. The dB reduction
condition. The beginning of water penetration is sound transmitted is called Transmission Loss. A
defined as the free area velocity at which water standard (nonacoustical) louver has shown the
begins to pass through the louver. ability to reduce this sound transmission by one to
two decibels in the 250 Hz octave band. Acousti-
In the normal intake application test, water repre- cal louvers, depending on design, may reduce
sentative of falling rain, and rain flowing down the sound transmission by four to 12 decibels in the
wetted surface of a building over a louver, are 250 Hz octave band. This may be an important

7
AMCA Publication 501-93

consideration where OSHA regulations are a A. Look aesthetically attractive and complement
concern. the surrounding architecture.

6. SYSTEM EFFECTS B. Inhibit undesirable elements from entering the

structure.
System Effects are conditions that will influence
the final performance of the louver. Engineering C. Offer low air resistance so that fan power is
judgement must be used when applying published conserved for the rest of the system.
test data. The various effects discussed in this
section all interrelate to some degree. These D. Minimize energy losses into or out of the struc-
effects are categorized as inlet conditions, outlet ture.
conditions, screens, and wind velocities.
The selection of a louver design becomes more
6.1 INLET & OUTLET CONDITIONS objective when looking at the characteristics of
Pressure Drop, Water Penetration, and Air
Be aware of a louver’s surroundings. Overhangs, Leakage. These characteristics are dependent on
projections, obstructions, or adjacent walls can the blade configurations, louver depth, seal type,
cause air currents which alter or disrupt the torque applied and the velocity of the air through
purpose and performance of the louver. the free area of the louver. Section 5 of this
manual discusses the measurement of louver free
If the air inside the structure is to be directed to area and the AMCA Standard 500 performance
or from the louver by ducting, proper design test methods.
procedure should be followed to distribute the air
evenly across the active portion of the louver. 7.1 DETERMINATION OF PERFORMANCE
With improper ducting, such as an elbow just
inside the structure, the velocity across the louver Most louver manufacturers publish (or have avail-
will vary, possibly causing unsatisfactory results. able) graphs showing Pressure Drop versus
velocity through the louver free area (see Figure
6.2 SCREENS 11); a corresponding Free Area table (see Table
1); graphs showing Water Penetration versus
The selected screen should fulfill its intent (refer velocity through the louver free area (see Figure
to Section 9.5). Too fine a mesh may change the 12) and Air Leakage versus pressure differential
Free Area of the louver assembly. It may also across the louver. This Air Leakage performance
clog up with dirt and debris and could affect the is based on a specified torque being applied (see
louver’s performance. Painting screens could Figure 13).
seriously lower the available free area.
System Effects must also be considered. Refer to
6.3 WIND VELOCITIES Section 6.

Section 5.5 indicates that AMCA Standard 500 7.2 LOUVER AVAILABLE FREE AREA DETER-
laboratory tests on louvers are based on zero- MINATION
wind conditions. Under extreme weather condi-
tions water will penetrate any louver, and floor The free area required can be used to size a
drains should be provided. louver for pressure drop or water penetration.
This is done by comparing the required free area
Wind velocities also have a structural effect on with available free areas of the louver.
louvers (see Section 8.3).
The following formula is used to size a louver for
7. LOUVER SELECTION a given airflow and a recommended free area
velocity.
Louvers are generally used to permit airflow into
or out of a structure and while performing this
function, the louver is expected to:

8
 AMCA Publication 501-93

Table 1 - Example Louver Free Area Chart -- SQ. FT.

Free Area (sq. ft.) = Design Flow (cfm) 7.4 EXAMPLE 2 - WATER PENETRATION PER-
Recommended Free Area FORMANCE
Velocity (fpm)
Size the intake louver for minimized Water Pene-
Each louver design has its specific free area tration at 13,500 cfm flow.
velocity value based on tests performed in accor-
dance with AMCA Standard 500. Figure 12 indicates 750 fpm is a reasonable
recommended the free area velocity for the exam-
The recommended free area velocity for a louver ple assuming zero-wind conditions. (See also
depends on the acceptable Pressure Drop or Section 6.3).
Water Penetration Velocity for the application.
From the general formula:
Louver manufacturers normally specify size Width
(first) by Height. Example free areas from Table
1 are listed below:

a) A 48 x 72 louver has 13.58 sq. ft. free area. Therefore, a louver with a minimum free area of 18
b) A 72 x 48 louver has 12.78 sq. ft. free area. square feet is required. From Table 1, a louver
84” x 60” (19.08 sq. ft.) may be selected.
7.3 EXAMPLE 1 - AIR PERFORMANCE PRES-
SURE DROP If performance is to be based on Water Penetra-
tion the louver selected in Example 1 should be
Size a louver for a given flow of 13,500 cfm and a increased to 84” x 60”; the revised Pressure Drop
maximum Pressure Drop of 0.17 in. water. would be 0.09 in. water.

From Figure 11 recommended free area velocity is 7.5 EXAMPLE 3 AIR LEAKAGE DETERMINA-
940 fpm for a Pressure Drop of 0.17 in. water. TION (Closed Adjustable Blade Louvers Only)

FreeArea (sq. ft. = 13,500 cfm = 14.36 sq. ft. Most manufacturers publish an Air Leakage rate
940 fpm not to exceed a specified pressure differential,
with a stated torque or force holding the device
Therefore, a louver with a minimum free area of In the closed position. This normally applies to
14.36 square feet is required. From Table 1, “infiltration” (pressure outside is greater) or “exfil-
choose a louver 84” x 48” (15.11 sq. ft.) to satisfy tration” (pressure inside is greater). Air leakage
this criteria. Another size could be used provided rate may also be specified.
the minimum free area requirement is met. A
louver 48” x 84” (15.52 sq. ft.) may be an alternate
choice.

9
AMCA Publication 501-93

Example - Determine the total Air Leakage cfm 7.6 PENTHOUSE SIZING
through a 36” x 48” louver with a 0.6 In. water
pressure differential Air can blow completely through a louver pent-
house and always takes the path of least resis-
A 36” x 48” (3’-0” x 4’-0”) louver has 12 square feet tance, which causes more air to enter the bottom
of louver gross area. Figure 13 indicates air portion of the penthouse. Also, louvered pent-
leakage of 4.4 cfm/square foot of louver gross houses should be designed no higher than one
area at 0.6 in. water pressure differential, there- half the shortest side and provisions should
fore: always be made for potential wind-driven rain or
snow carryover.
Total Air Leakage at 0.6 in. water = (4.40 cfm/sq
ft. x (12 sq. ft.) = 52.8 cfm.

VELOCITY THRU FREE AREA (FPM)

STANDARD AIR 0.075 LB. PER CU. FT.

Figure 11 - Pressure Drop Chart for EXAMPLE 1

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 AMCA Publication 501-93

VELOCITY THRU FREE AREA (FPM)

STANDARD AIR - 0.075 LB. PER CU. FT.

BEGINNING OF WATER PENETRATION 756 FPM

NOTE: Test results are based on a set of controlled parameters in an indoor environment; the effect of wind was not included.
The point of beginning of water penetration (.Ol oz./SQ.FT) is the only point on the test curve that is valid for sizes other than
the test size (4’-0”). This point is also covered by AMCA Publication 511, Certified Ratings Program for Air Control Devices.

Figure 12 - Water Penetration Chart for EXAMPLE 2

11
AMCA Publication 501-93

2
LOUVER GROSS AREA CFM / FT

Figure 13 - Infiltration Air Leakage Chart for EXAMPLE 3

8. BASIC CONSTRUCTION 8.1.3 Cold Rolled Steel Sheet

ASTM A 366, Class 1, with matte finish.
The types of construction used in the louver
industry depend on the material used, the blade 8.1.4 Galvanized Steel Sheet
type, environmental conditions, and fabrication ASTM A 526 and A 527, with ASTM A
methods. 525, G90 zinc coating.

8.1 MATERIALS 8.1.5 Stainless Steel Sheet

ASTM A 167 AISI type 302/304, with 2B
Materials used in louver construction may vary finish. [2]
depending on the type of louver, the type of
installation and the finish desired. Typically used 8.2 FABRICATION METHODS
materials are aluminum extrusions, formed alumi-
num, formed cold rolled steel, galvanized steel The major components of all louvers consist of the
and stainless steel. In rare instances, the louvers head, sill, jambs and blades which may be pro-
may be fabricated from other materials such as duced in several different ways. The methods
copper or bronze. The types and alloys of the used depend on the material, the quantities re-
most commonly used materials are listed below. quired, and the shapes desired.

8.1.1 Aluminum Extrusion 8.2.1 Extruded Shapes

ASTM B 221, Alloy 6063-T5 or T52 [1]
Extruding is the preferred method of producing
complicated aluminum shapes. These shapes are
8.1.2 Aluminum Sheet produced using special dies designed by each
ASTM B 209, Alloy 3003 or 5005 with manufacturer to meet his specific designs. The
temper as required for forming, or as extruded sections are then cut into component
otherwise recommended by metal pro- parts and assembled by using one of the methods
ducers to provide the required finish. described in the assembling sections.

[l] American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA

[2] American Iron & Steel Institute, New York, NY.
12
 AMCA Publication 501-93

8.2.2 Formed Shapes ered in the design, such as the maximum allow-
Louvers may be manufactured using parts which able deflection.
are formed on fabricating equipment such as
press brakes and roll forming machines. This 8.3.2 Seismic Considerations
method is used for more conventional shapes and In some instances, the specifications will state that
specialty materials. the louvers are subject to seismic requirements
because the geographical location for the installed
8.2.3 Assembling-Fixed Louvers louver is in an area with earthquake potential. The
The assembly of the various components into the specification furnished by the user should clearly
finished louver can be accomplished by any of indicate the requirements and the classifications of
several methods depending on the choice of the the seismic loading. The structural design of the
manufacturer. The most common are assembling “opening” should be sufficient to support the
with screws, rivets, welding, or any combination of louver and meet any seismic requirement.
these methods.
8.3.3 Thermal Considerations
8.2.4 Assembling-Adjustable Louvers Provisions must be made for thermal expansion.
The method of assembling the blades on adjust- Larger sections should not be “butted” together;
able louvers depends on the design requirements. the larger the section, the greater the allowance
A common method is the use of steel or aluminum required to avoid distortion.
blade axles inserted in sleeve or ball bearings
located within the jamb member. 8.3.4 Fastening Considerations
The fasteners used to secure the louvers in the
8.2.5 Assembling-Large Continuous Line opening must be considered. The strength, the
Louvers number and the placement will be determined by
Architectural or continuous line louvers may be the total load on the louver section. The fasteners
shipped as an assembled section, or as parts to should be selected for corrosion resistance and
be assembled at the jobsite. Field assembly compatibility with the material used in the louver
should be done In accordance with the manufactu- and the adjoining structure.
rer’s instructions.
8.3.5 Snow Load Considerations
8.3 STRUCTURAL SUPPORT In geographical locations where a snow load may
be part of the specifications for penthouses, this
The most common factors to be considered are load may be given in pounds per square foot, or
wind loads, thermal expansion, and in some the user could refer to a code or standard such as
cases, seismic loading. The architect or engineer ANSI A58.1-1982.[3] The tendency of the snow to
should consider these factors in the preparation of drift, the angle of the roof and whether the roof is
specifications and drawings. Sufficient structural warm or cold are major considerations when
support should be provided at the building “open- evaluating the structural design of supports.
ing” to mount the louvers and meet any load
conditions noted above. In addition to the snowload, there will probably be
other factors acting concurrently. All information
8.3.1 Wind Load Considerations concerning wind, snow, rain, roof shape and adja-
User specifications should indicate wind load re- cent roofs and structures should be made avail-
quirements in pounds per square foot (psf). Wind able to the manufacturer.
load in psf is the preferred specification because
of the variety of conversion factors from wind 8.4 LOUVER STRUCTURALS -CALCULATIONS
velocity (mph) to psf required by various wind
load codes and standards due to height and 8.4.1 Responsibility for Structures
exposure considerations. It is important that all Specifier must designate responsibility for structu-
pertinent information be communicated between rals. If not specified, the louver manufacturer will
the user and the manufacturer. not include these in price. He may at his option
include them as an extra.
In considering wind loads, the deflection of the
louver as well as the stress of the materials should
be evaluated. The user should advise the manu-
facturer of any limitations that are to be consid-

[3] American National Standards Institute, New York, NY 13

AMCA Publication 501-93

1) The loading should be specified in terms of may incorporate these features as an integral part
pounds per square foot or Kilonewtons per of the louver (see Figure 14).
square meter (kN/m2), not wind velocities.
9.2 SUBFRAMES
2) The pertinent governing building code should
be specified along with the loading. Do not Subframes are often used as an auxiliary frame
use the statement “designed according to: around a louver. By adding appropriate hardware
(Name of Code). This leads to various inter- to a subframe, the louver can be removable,
pretations of the load requirements. hinged, latched, and, under some special circum-
stances, restrained (see Figure 15).
If calculations are required, they must be speci-
fied. If the calculations must be approved and
stamped by a professional engineer, this must be
specified. Certified calculations add to the cost of
the equipment.

8.4.2 Determination of structural load.

Sources of basic wind loads include building
codes and airport records. Wind tunnel model
studies done for some larger projects give direct
results without going through calculations.

Wind load is the algebraic difference between the

external and internal pressure on the louver. The
louver structurals must be designed for both
positive and negative pressure caused by a
change of wind direction.

8.4.3 Bending stress and deflection

The recommended allowable deflection for blades
and structurals in 1/180. Some codes may allow
a deflection for L/100 for appearance items such
as blades. Figure 14

Calculated connection loads - pay attention to

edge distances when fastening into concrete.

9. ACCESSORIES
A louver accessory is any auxiliary component
used with a louver to implement its function,
facilitate its installation, enhance its use, or any
combination thereof. Most louver accessories are
independent of the main louver, but are connected
to it at some stage of assembly or field installa-
tion.

9.1 SILLS AND FLASHING

Sills and flashings are separate pieces shaped to

follow the specific contours of an opening. Their
primary use with a louver is to deflect and to
direct elements away from the opening. They may
also provide a transition between the louver and
adjacent structures. The material and finish
usually match that of the louver. Special designs Figure 15

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 AMCA Publication 501-93

9.3 ACTUATOR work (see Figure 16).

The blades of an adjustable louver can be moved 9.4 MULLION COVERS/BATTEN PLATES
manually by a variety of methods using cranks,
levers, chains, etc. If powered operation is re- These components are designed and used to
quired, electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic devices cover, conceal or strengthen the joints between
(actuators) are commercially available in a wide adjacent louvers or other structures.
selection of capacities and applications.
Mullion covers and batten plates usually are made
Some actuators may be mounted as an integral of the same material as the louver and finished to
part of the louver; others may require a remote match. They may be shipped loose for mounting
location connected to the louver through a series to the louver at the installation site, or can be an
of jack shafts, gear boxes and bearing brackets. integral extension of the louver frame (see Figure
Some actuators are externally mounted, while 17).
others are housed on or within the louver frame

PNEUMATIC, HYDRAULIC MANUAL ACTUATORS ELECTRIC

Figure 16

MULLION COVERS/BATTEN PLATES

Figure 17

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AMCA Publication 501-93

9.5 SCREENS AND GRILLES There are basically two types of panels used: a
plain sheet of thin gauge metal, or a sandwich
Basically, screens and grilles serve a single type panel In which insulating material is laminat-
purpose: to prevent the passage of undesirable ed to one or between two metal sheets. Both
elements through the louver while still maintaining types are usually mounted on the back (interior) of
maximum airflow. The screen material should the louver. This panel can also serve as a barrier
provide corrosion resistance to its environment against heat, sound, light and the weather. Panels
and to the louver frame. can be painted black on the exterior side, both
sides, or they can be finished In any of the louver
Attachment of screens to the louvers can be finishes shown in Section 10.
accomplished by a variety of methods including
screws, quick release clips or vandalproof fasten- 9.7 FILTERS
ers.
Many different materials can be used as filters to
There are a great variety of commercially available remove Impurities from air passing through a
screen materials. The following are some of the louver. The nature of the impurities and the extent
most commonly used: of filtration required will determine the type and
thickness of material selected. Most filter materi-
ELEMENT MATERIAL als come in standard sizes in self-contained
frames; however, sheets of bulk filter material can
insects Closely woven (18/14 mesh) be cut to specific sizes and shapes and the
wire (aluminum, bronze, stain- louvers equipped with special built-in frames.
less steel, fiberglass) of small Special consideration must be given in the place-
diameter (0.09” to 0.013”) with ment of these louvers to provide for easy access
free areas from 58% to 70% un- for cleaning and replacement.
painted.
9.8 GASKETS AND SEALS
Birds, small Larger mesh (#4 @ 1/4” or #2
animals, @ 1/2”) wire (aluminum, gal- (This section does not cover caulking which is
hands vanized or stainless steel) or used when installing the louver in its opening.)
larger diameter (0.035” to
0.250”) with free areas from 25% Gaskets and seals are used to prevent the unde-
to 86%. sirable leakage of air or water between the lou-
ver’s blades and between the blades and the
Larger Perforated metal or expanded frame.
animals, metal (regular or flattened) in
people aluminum, carbon steel or stain- When low leakage is required on adjustable blade
less steel from 0.040” to 0.25” units, pliable seals made of vinyl, flexible metal or
thick stock, with 1/2” to 2” rubber are most often used. These are fastened
openings and free areas from to either the blades or the frame by custom-
73% to 92%. designed slots, mechanical fasteners or adhesive.

9.6 BLANK-OFF PANELS 9.9 SECURITY BARS

Although louvers are intended to allow the free Security bars are usually used in a louver to
flow of as much air as possible, certain applica- prevent forced entry or exit through a louvered
tions may require that the airflow be controlled opening. The bars are normally installed perpen-
with a blank-off panel while still keeping the dicular to the louver blades and welded to the
“louvers” look for architectural appearance. louver frame or to a sub-frame.

16
 AMCA Publication 501-93

These bars can be made from carbon steel, 10.4.2 215-R1 (Aluminum Association Code
stainless steel or aluminum. AAC22A41) 60 minutes treatment provides a 0.7
mil minimum clear coating and is recommended
10. FINISHES for louvers exposed to more severe corrosive or
abrasive atmospheres.
The purpose of specially finished louvers is nor-
mally to enhance appearance (match or contrast 10.5 COLOR ANODIZE
with adjacent colors) and to provide extended
resistance to weathering. Some industrial applica- A hard oxide color coating which extends the life
tions however, require finishes to resist a wide of aluminum. Coloring is achieved through the
variety of conditions such as temperature ex- use of dyes.
tremes and chemical reagents. A variety of
finishes are available at the factory or for field 10.5.1 Integral Color Anodize
application when desired. The most frequently or Aluminum Association Code Number AAC22A42
commonly supplied finishes are shown below. For describes the Integral Color Anodize process. The
specific application requirements consult the integral color finish is applied electrochemically on
louver manufacturer. chemically clean (caustic etched) aluminum to a
minimum surface depth of 0.7 mil. The color
10.1 MILL FINISH becomes an integral part of the surface. Shade
variations of the same color may appear between
The natural aluminum or galvanized steel provided batches and different alloys.
by the extruding or rolling mills. Louvers with
standard mill finish can be field painted (following 10.5.2 Two Step Color Anodize
routine cleaning procedures) or left in their natural Aluminum Association Code Number AA-C22A44
state. describes the electrolytically deposited color
anodize process. The colored anodic coating is
10.2 PRIME COAT light fast and has a minimum thickness of 0.7 mil.
As with the integral color anodizing, variations in
A primer preparation for field painting. Louvers shade may exist, but to a lesser degree because
(aluminum or steel) are chemically cleaned and a of the reduced sensitivity to alloy differences.
prime coating applied to all surfaces.
10.6 BAKED ENAMEL
10.3 ETCH
A color finish for aluminum and steel. Baked
A cleaning process to remove all accumulated enamel is typically a one coat system designed to
foreign matter and give the metal a matte surface color and add durability to louvers. The finish
appearance. It is intended to improve initial ap- consists of a topcoat applied on properly cleaned
pearance and not to enhance weathering capabili- and pretreated metal surfaces.
ty. Short term protection may be obtained with a
coat of clear lacquer. 10.7 FLUOROCARBON COATINGS

10.4 CLEAR ANODIZE A premium color finish for extruded aluminum and
steel. This multicoat system provides color reten-
A preoxidizing of the aluminum surface to provide tion, good adhesion and resistance to chalking,
a uniform finish not easily affected by natural fading or chemical abrasion. The finish consists
oxidizing influences such as weather, smog, of a cured primer and a top coat applied on
chemical fumes, etc. Appearance is much the properly pretreated surfaces. Coating manufactur-
same as clean mill finish. ers should be consulted for application recom-
mendations and warranty restrictions.
10.4.1 204-R1 (Aluminum Association Code
AA-C22A31) 30 minutes treatment provides a 0.4 10.8 POWDERED COATINGS
mil minimum clear coating and is used for louvers
exposed to normal weather.[4] A special finishing process in which a low amper-
age, high voltage charge is imparted to the pow-

[4]
The Aluminum Association, Washington, DC 17
AMCA Publication 501-93

der particles. The parts to be coated are electri- 11.2 METAL SUBFRAME
cally grounded so that the charged particles are
attracted and held to the part’s surface until 11.2.1 A flanged frame louver installed with
melted and fused in a baking oven. fasteners into the subframe is commonly used
(see Figure 21).
11. INSTALLATION METHODS
11.2.2 Fasteners through the louver frame into
Louvers are generally installed in one of the the subframe can be used if blade spacing and
following manners and fastened by the methods accessability permit. (See Figure 22).
shown:
11.2.3 Clips, continuous angle, or plates may
11.1 MASONRY be installed behind the louver and fastened to the
subframe (see Figure 23).
11.1.1 Strap Anchors
Straps must be installed while masonry is being 11.3 STRUCTURAL STEEL
poured or while blocks are being laid (see Figure
18). 11.3.1 Installation is similar to subframes as
described in Section 11.2. Welding may be
11.1.2 Expansion Anchors considered in certain applications.
Lead shields and bolts or expansion anchors
made for masonry may be used. Fastening can 11.4 WOOD FRAMES
be achieved through the louver frame or by using
angles located behind the louver (see Figure 19 11.4.1 Same installation as metal framing
and 20). except that wood screws would normally be used.

STRAP ANCHOR EXPANSION ANCHOR EXPANSION ANCHOR

Figure 18 Figure 19 Figure 20

METAL SUBFRAME METAL SUBFRAME ANGLE + METAL SUBFRAME

+ EXPANSION ANCHOR
Figure 21 Figure 22 Figure 23

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 AMCA Publication 501-93

11.5 FREE STANDING COLUMNS

11.5.1 Large clip angles may be bolted or

welded to columns. Horizontal support members
of the louver rest on the clip angles, and are
bolted or welded in place (see Figure 24).

11.6 ROOF CURBS FOR PENTHOUSES

11.6.1 Angles or flanges extended down inside

the curb wall are the most common approach.
The angles must be fastened to the interior curb
wall or structural steel by screws or bolts depend-
ing on the material used in the curb. Large
penthouses which are subjected to strong wind
conditions should be anchored to structural steel
below the curb (see Figure 25).

11.6.2 Fasteners through the bottom frame

member into the top of the curb may be satisfac-
tory (see Figure 26). Consult manufacturer for CLIP ANGLES
approval.
Figure 24

VERTICAL BLADE LOUVER STILL COLUMN

Figure 25 Figure 26

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AMCA Publication 501-93

APPENDIX A - GLOSSARY
A.10.1 Louver... Fixed A louver in which the
The following list of definitions are standard within blades are firmly secured in an open
the industry. position.

A.1 ACTUATOR (OPERATOR) A mechanical

accessory item attached to an adjustable A . 1 0 . 2 L o u v e r . . . Adjustable A louver in
louver to move its blade(s) to either the which the degree-of slant of the blades
open or closed position, or to an interme- may be changed from full open to full
diate position for flow modulation. Actua- closed either manually or with a powered
tors may be manually, electrically, pneu- actuator.
matically or hydraulically powered.
A.11 LOUVER FREE AREA The minimum
A.2 AIR VOLUME The measurement of airflow area through which air can pass, normally
through the louver normally expressed in expressed in square feet or percentage of
cubic feet of air/minute (cfm). louver gross area (see 3.2.2).

A.3 BLADES A bar, slat, or vane in a louver A.12 LOUVER GROSS AREA (FACE AREA)
assembly usually mounted within a frame; Overall width times overall height of the
normally provided in multiple quantities louver frame which fits into the wall
and parallel to each other. opening.

A.4 CONTINUOUS LINE (CONTINUOUS A.13 LOUVER PERCENTAGE FREE AREA

BLADE) A louver constructed with blades Louver free area divided by louver gross
that present uninterrupted horizontal or area times 100.
vertical lines to complement or enhance
architectural features. A.14 MULLION BATTENS Plates furnished to
cover the interior and exterior mullions of
A.5 FLASHING A sheet metal strip placed at adjacent louver sections (see 4.2.4).
the junction of intersecting exterior build-
ing surfaces to make the joint watertight. A.15 OPERATOR See Actuator

A.6 FRAME The outermost structure of a A.18 PENTHOUSE A roofed structure incor-
louver assembly comprising the head, sill, porating louvers or louver blades in all or
and jambs joined together to support the part of the walls and usually designed to
blades. be installed on the roof of a building.

A.7 FREE AREA VELOCITY Rate of airflow A.17 PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL The resis-
through the free area of the louver usually tance to Air Leakage across a closed
expressed in feet/minute (fpm). louver, usually expressed in inches of
water (in. water) (see 3.5.5).
A.8 HEAD The upper or highest frame mem-
ber of an installed louver. A.18 PRESSURE DROP The resistance to air-
flow across an open louver, usually ex-
A.9 JAMB The vertical frame member on the pressed in inches of water (in. water) at
sides of an installed louver. a specified velocity (see 3.5.3).

A.10 LOUVER A device comprising multiple A.19 SIGHTPROOF LOUVER A louver which
blades which, when mounted in an open- cannot be seen through from any direc-
ing, permits the flow of air but inhibits the tion.
entrance of undesirable elements.
A.20 SILL The bottom or lowest frame mem-
ber of an installed louver.

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 AMCA Publication 501-93

A.21 STATIC PRESSURE The normal

force/unit area at a small hole in a duct
or other boundary surface parallel to the
air stream; so located that velocity does
not affect the measurement. Static pres-
sure is normally expressed in inches
water (in. water).

A.22 STORMPROOF LOUVER AND WEATH-

ERPROOF LOUVER Misleading terms -
not used by AMCA member companies;
therefore, not standard in the industry
and should not be used.

A.23 SUBFRAME (BUCK FRAME) A frame

installed in a wall opening to facilitate the
mounting of louvers.

A.24 SUBSILL (EXTENDED SILL) A formed

or shaped metal flashing installed in a
wall opening to facilitate water drainage.

21