I don't know if it is current but ASTM E985-96 "Permanent Metal Railing Systems and Rails for Buildings" has reference to static loads and deflections during testing iaw E894 and E935. Max. allowable deflection:
For horizontal load at mid-span: h/24 + L/96
For horizontal load at top of post (I know, all glass, no posts): h/12
For vertical load at mid span: L/96
Perhaps this criteria would also apply to your glass system.
Last time I checked an all glass guard system, the glass was grouted into a deep shoe at the base and the Aluminum handrail was used to help distribute the horizontal forces along the top of the glass. I was there during construction and the glass panels stiffened up a lot when the hand rail was attached.
Paul.
Phoenix, AZ
-----Original Message-----
From: Jeff Smith [mailto: jeffsmith7@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, January 04, 2008 4:47 PM
To: seaint@seaint.org
Subject: RE: Glass guardrail supportDo hand rails, glass or otherwise, have deflection requirements? I have never found it, but I prefer something very solid.Jeff
Back in years gone by we simply required the guard rails to be tested after they were installed. I was amazed how much glass could bend, but they performed well, and I slept well.
From: Harold Sprague [mailto:spraguehope@hotmail.com]
Sent: Friday, January 04, 2008 2:40 PM
To: seaint@seaint.org
Subject: RE: Glass guardrail support
Regards,
Harold Sprague