Glass Panel Impact Physics

BC Building Code - Sections 4.1.5.14 & 4.1.7.1 | Glass panels must resist 500 N over 100×100 mm

Glass Panel

40 in 28 in
100mm
Area: 0.72 m²

Impact Object

(flower pot)
(metal)
(code test)
Critical Velocity: 45 km/h (glass breaks above this)
Result:
SAFE
Force 200 N 40% of limit
Energy 1 J
Pressure 20 kPa

Physics Equations

1. Momentum
Δp = m × v
Δp = 2.0 kg × 1.0 m/s = 2.0 kg·m/s
2. Force (Impulse)
F = Δp / Δt
F = 2.0 kg·m/s ÷ 0.055 s = 36 N
3. Compare to Code
F > 500 N ?
36 N ≤ 500 N → SAFE
4. Pressure
P = F / A
P = 36 N ÷ 0.01 m² = 3,600 Pa