IBL-7 & IBL-9 Ice Ball Launchers
Since 1963, Haag engineers have performed impact tests on and made field inspections of the myriad of roofing materials in order to determine their hail damage thresholds. Recent impact tests are performed in our Research/Testing facility with Haag’s IBL-7 and IBL-9 Ice Ball Launchers.
The Haag IBL-7 impacts roofing and other materials with simulated hailstones. Material samples are mounted onto test panels that mimic real-life support conditions. The sample is then targeted at specific locations for impacts. The IBL-7 can launch hailstones as small as one-half inch in diameter and as large as 2 ¼ inches in diameter at velocities that match real-world free-fall or wind-driven conditions. The IBL-9 launches hailstones ranging from 2-1/2″ to 4″. After the samples are impacted, they are examined for failure with a variety of techniques.
Haag Education creates many of its materials and resources, including Damage Assessment Field Guides, Haag Certified Inspector Courses, and Online seminars, with the testing and findings provided from the IAS accredited Haag Research/Testing department.
Visit our YouTube page to view more testing videos.