The Secret behind Pilot Rock Snow Load Tables
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We take pride in the quality products we design and develop for our customers. We know durability is important, as most of our products are used outdoors. We also know the effect weather can have on outdoor equipment. In 2003, we started testing a variety of picnic tables for a high elevation snow load rating.
These tables were tested for snow loads of 500 to 1,100 lbs. per square foot of table area. The test was designed to determine the failure points of the table top and seat components. Guided by an engineer, with assistance from the design and production staff, the tables well exceeded the test requirements.
However, those tests were challenged by a competitor as being inaccurate and overstated. We take these claims seriously, so in 2011, we hired an independent testing company to conduct new snow load tests. The protocols were designed by the testing lab and monitored by a professional engineer.
During the independent testing, we tested three different models of Pilot Rock wheelchair accessible picnic tables. Three tables were tested in each model group for a total of nine tables tested. This helped ensure the final statistics were valid for a model and not just a one-time anomaly.
All nine Pilot Rock brand picnic tables tested easily exceeded our original snow load ratings claim – the independent results showed our tables could withstand far beyond what we originally indicated. By testing on various models, we tested common V-Type steel top/seat structures and H-Type perforated steel tops/seats we use across many of our tables, thus we believe the snow load test results would apply to similar products.
Providing our customers durable products to withstand extreme high elevation weather conditions is important. But maybe it doesn’t snow where you are? Just think how well these extreme load tested tables will withstand everyday exposure to the elements and your public.
A more detailed look at the test results are below. For customers with a legitimate need to see the full report as a means to confirm the information presented, you may contact our team and we will provide you the necessary information.
TESTING HIGHLIGHTS
Table Model #1: WXT/G-VW universal access, 6 ft. long
Conclusion for Test #1 – All three tables easily exceeded our original claimed snow load rating of 1,100 lbs. per square foot. Individual test results were 1,449 lbs., 1,528 lbs. and 1,361 lbs. per square foot of snow load capacity. The average snow load rating for Test #1 = 1,446 lbs. per square foot.
Table Model #2: WXT/G-8VW universal access, 8 ft. long
Conclusion for Test #2 – All three table easily exceeded our original claimed snow load rating of 1,100 lbs. per square foot. Individual test results were 1,356 lbs., 1,455 lbs. and 1,462 lbs. per square foot of snow load capacity. The average snow load rating for Test #2 = 1,424 lobs per square foot.
Table Model #3: XT/G-6VW/E wheelchair accessible at one end, 2 ft. extended top with diagonal support brace, 6 ft. seats, 8 ft. long top
Conclusion for Test #3 – All three tables easily exceeded our original claimed snow load rating of 759 lbs. per square foot. Individual test results were 948 lbs., 948 lbs. and 948 lbs. per square foot of snow load capacity. The average snow load rating for Test #3 = 948 lbs. per square foot.