ClarkDietrich Introduces ASTM F2322 Impact-Tested Barrier Mesh Wall Systems

West Chester, OH – ClarkDietrich, the nation’s largest manufacturer of cold-formed steel framing products, has introduced two new barrier mesh wall systems with third-party testing for impact resistance. The 9-gauge (BM50-9-Modified) and 13-gauge (BM50-13- Modified) barrier mesh systems achieved an ASTM F2322 impact resistance Grade 3 and Grade 4, respectively, within a cold-formed steel framed assembly. The Grade 4 assembly was framed with 54 mil CFS studs spaced at 16" on center, while the Grade 3 assembly used 97 mil CFS framing spaced at 12" on center.

ASTM F2322 is the only known standard for evaluating the resistance of secure wall assemblies to physical assault. Developed specifically for detention and correctional applications, ASTM F2322 subjects complete wall specimens to repeated impact loading designed to simulate aggressive physical attack. ASTM F2322 impact grades indicate progressively higher levels of resistance to physical assault. As the grade increases, the wall assembly is required to withstand both blunt and sharp weighted objects with sustained impact exposure during the test. Grade 3 indicates 200 impacts within 20 minutes; Grade 4 indicates 100 impacts in 10 minutes.

Critically, the testing agency may reposition the impactor to challenge joints, edges, fastener lines, framing locations and other potential weak points throughout the test. This means the standard evaluates the real-world performance of the entire wall system, not any single component in isolation.

“The mesh is only one piece of the equation,” said Christopher Little, senior category manager for ClarkDietrich. “If the framing is undersized or improperly detailed, the wall can fail at the studs or connections even when the mesh stays intact. The only way to know a system truly performs is through documented, third-party testing of the complete assembly, framing included."

Testing was conducted at Intertek Testing Laboratory in York, Pennsylvania. Full results are available upon request. The published rating applies only to the exact assembly evaluated, including framing, reinforcement, mesh, attachments, finishes and transitions.

For more details on the complete barrier mesh systems evaluated, visit clarkdietrich.com/products/barrier-mesh-system-tested-impact-resistance.

About ClarkDietrich

ClarkDietrich™ offers cold-formed steel construction products. For more information, visit www.clarkdietrich.com.