ASTM C56-22

Standard Specification for Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Tile

ABSTRACT
This specification covers structural clay nonloadbearing tile (partition, fireproofing, and furring). One grade of tile is covered, Grade NB. Structural clay non-load-bearing tile shall conform to the specified requirements for absorption. Tile intended for use in fireproofing structural members shall be of such sizes and shapes that they can be erected to cover completely the exposed surfaces of the members. All tile shall be reasonably free of laminations and of cracks, blisters, surface roughness, and other defects that would interfere with the proper setting of the tile or impair the strength or permanence of the construction.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers structural clay nonloadbearing tile (partition, fireproofing, and furring). Tile intended for use in fireproofing structural members shall be of such sizes and shapes that they can be erected to completely cover the exposed surfaces of the members. Fireproofing tile intended for use in load-bearing masonry shall conform to Specification C34.  
1.2 The property requirements of this specification apply at the time of purchase. The use of results from testing of tile extracted from masonry structures for determining conformance or non-conformance to the property requirements (Section 5) of this standard is beyond the scope of this specification.  
1.3 Tile covered by this specification are manufactured from clay, shale, or similar naturally occurring substances and subjected to a heat treatment at elevated temperatures (firing). The heat treatment must develop sufficient fired bond between the particulate constituents to provide the strength and durability requirements of this specification. (See firing and fired bond in Terminology C1232.)  
1.4 The text of this specification references notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of this specification.  
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Nov-2022
• ICS: 81.080 - Refractories
• Technical Committee: C15 - Masonry – Manufactured Masonry Units, Mortars and Grouts
• Drafting Committee: C15.02 - Brick and Structural Clay Tile

Relations

• Refers: ASTM C1232-23 - Standard Terminology for Masonry
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM C67/C67M-19 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM C67/C67M-18 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2018
• Refers: ASTM C1232-17 - Standard Terminology for Masonry
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2017
• Refers: ASTM C1232-15a - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM C1232-15 - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2015
• Refers: ASTM C34-13 - Standard Specification for Structural Clay Load-Bearing Wall Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2013
• Refers: ASTM C34-12 - Standard Specification for Structural Clay Load-Bearing Wall Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2012
• Refers: ASTM C1232-12 - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2012
• Refers: ASTM C1232-10c - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2010
• Refers: ASTM C1232-10b - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2010
• Refers: ASTM C34-10 - Standard Specification for Structural Clay Load-Bearing Wall Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2010
• Refers: ASTM C1232-10a - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 01-May-2010
• Refers: ASTM C1232-10 - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2010
• Refers: ASTM C1232-09b - Standard Terminology of Masonry
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2009

Overview

ASTM C56-22: Standard Specification for Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Tile is a comprehensive standard developed by ASTM International for structural clay tiles used in nonloadbearing applications. Designed to set requirements for tiles used in partitions, fireproofing, and furring, this specification ensures quality and consistency for construction projects where structural clay tile plays a vital role but does not carry structural loads.

The scope of ASTM C56-22 includes one grade of tile, Grade NB, focusing on absorption properties, dimensional tolerance, appearance, and other key physical characteristics. The standard applies to tiles manufactured from clay, shale, or similar natural materials that are fired to achieve the necessary strength and durability.

Key Topics

• Product Types and Uses:
  Covers structural clay nonloadbearing tile designed for partitions, fireproofing, and furring in masonry construction. Fireproofing tiles meant for load-bearing applications must meet different standards.

• Material Requirements:

  • Tiles must be made from clay, shale, or related materials.
  • Subjected to high-temperature firing to achieve required strength and durability.
  • Grade NB is specified, addressing absorption and overall physical properties.

• Physical Properties:

  • Absorption requirements are strictly defined for Grade NB tiles.
  • Tiles must be free from defects such as cracks, blisters, surface roughness, or laminations that could affect installation or long-term performance.

• Size and Dimensional Tolerances:

  • No overall dimension may vary more than 3% from the specified size.
  • Modular and non-modular sizes are permitted, but should be specified by the designer or purchaser.

• Finish and Appearance:

  • Tiles must exhibit finishes suitable for plaster-base or exposed wall applications.
  • Optional surface textures include smooth, scored, combed, or roughened finishes, with clear requirements for each type.
  • Color, texture, and finish options can be specified separately when ordering.

• Testing and Compliance:

  • Testing is performed at the time of purchase and includes sampling and testing in accordance with ASTM C67/C67M.
  • Minimum requirements are established for the number of cells, shell thickness, and weight per unit area for partition and furring tiles.

Applications

ASTM C56-22 is essential in ensuring quality assurance for structural clay tiles in nonloadbearing masonry construction. Real-world applications include:

• Interior Partitions:
  Used for the division of interior spaces where structural support is not required but fire resistance, sound insulation, and durability are desired.

• Fireproofing:
  Tiles are shaped and sized to cover and protect structural members from fire exposure, contributing to enhanced fire safety in buildings.

• Furring:
  Tiles provide frameworks or backing, especially where protection against heat or fire is necessary without carrying structural loads.

This specification is commonly referenced by architects, engineers, builders, and manufacturers to confirm that the products selected will meet necessary performance, safety, and quality objectives within a project.

Related Standards

For a fully compliant masonry or fireproofing system, ASTM C56-22 references several other key ASTM standards:

• ASTM C34: Specification for Structural Clay Loadbearing Wall Tile (for tiles intended for load-bearing uses)
• ASTM C67/C67M: Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• ASTM C1232: Terminology for Masonry

Consulting the most recent version of each referenced standard is recommended to ensure all requirements are met for your specific application.

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Keywords: ASTM C56-22, structural clay tile, nonloadbearing tile, fireproofing tile, masonry construction, Grade NB, tile absorption, clay masonry standards, interior partitions, ASTM masonry standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:C56 −22
Standard Specification for
Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Tile
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C56; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.Asuperscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This specification covers structural clay nonloadbearing 2.1 ASTM Standards:
tile (partition, fireproofing, and furring). Tile intended for use C34 Specification for Structural Clay Loadbearing Wall Tile
in fireproofing structural members shall be of such sizes and C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick
shapes that they can be erected to completely cover the and Structural Clay Tile
exposedsurfacesofthemembers.Fireproofingtileintendedfor C1232 Terminology for Masonry
use in load-bearing masonry shall conform to Specification
3. Terminology
C34.
3.1 Definitions—For definitions relating to structural clay
1.2 The property requirements of this specification apply at
nonload-bearing wall tile, refer to Terminology C1232.
the time of purchase. The use of results from testing of tile
extracted from masonry structures for determining confor-
4. Classification
mance or non-conformance to the property requirements (Sec-
4.1 One grade of tile is covered, designated Grade NB.
tion5)ofthisstandardisbeyondthescopeofthisspecification.
1.3 Tilecoveredbythisspecificationaremanufacturedfrom
5. Physical Properties
clay, shale, or similar naturally occurring substances and
5.1 Structural clay nonloadbearing tile, when tested in
subjected to a heat treatment at elevated temperatures (firing).
accordancewithTestMethodsC67/C67M,shallconformtothe
The heat treatment must develop sufficient fired bond between
following requirements for absorption:
the particulate constituents to provide the strength and dura-
A
Absorption by 1-h Boiling, %
bility requirements of this specification. (See firing and fired
Grade Individual Maximum
bond in Terminology C1232.)
NB 28
1.4 The text of this specification references notes and
footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and
A
The range in percentage absorption for tile delivered to any one job shall be not
footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be
more than 12.
considered as requirements of this specification.
6. Dimensions and Permissible Variations
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
6.1 No overall dimension shall vary more than 3 % over or
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
under the specified dimension for any form or size of tile. See
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
Note 1.
and are not considered standard.
NOTE 1—Purchasers and designers should ascertain the type and size of
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
tile, modular or non-modular, available in the locality under consideration
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
and should specify accordingly, stating the size and type represented by
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
the available tile.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Modular sizes are designated by the specified nominal dimensions
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical which are equal to the actual manufactured dimensions plus the thickness
of one mortar joint, not to exceed ⁄2 in. (12.7 mm). For example, if the
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
modular, specified, or nominal dimensions of a unit are 4 by 8 by 12 in.
(102 by 203 by 305 mm) the actual manufactured dimensions may be 3 ⁄2
1 1
by 7 ⁄2 by 11 ⁄2 in. (114.7 by 215.7 by 317.7 mm).
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on
Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
C15.02 on Brick and Structural Clay Tile. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2022. Published December 2022. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1924. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as C56 – 13(2017). DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C0056-22. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C56−22
7. Finish and Appearance 8. Number of Cells and Weights of Tile
8.1 Partition and split furring tile shall conform to the
7.1 All tile shall be reasonably free of laminations and of
requirements prescribed in Table 1 for total number of cells,
cracks, blisters, surface roughness, and other defects that
number of cells in the direction of wall thickness, and weight
would interfere with the proper setting of the tile or impair the
per unit area.
strength or permanence of the construction.
8.2 The requirements for minimum weight per unit area of
7.2 The finish of the outer face or faces of tile shall be
structural clay nonloadbearing tile shall be waived if the
plaster-base finish or exposed wall finish as specified in the
overall thickness
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C56 − 13 (Reapproved 2017) C56 − 22
Standard Specification for
Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Tile
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C56; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope Scope*
1.1 This specification covers structural clay nonloadbearing tile (partition, fireproofing, and furring). Tile intended for use in
fireproofing structural members shall be of such sizes and shapes that they can be erected to completely cover the exposed surfaces
of the members. Fireproofing tile intended for use in load-bearing masonry shall conform to Specification C34.
1.2 The property requirements of this specification apply at the time of purchase. The use of results from testing of tile extracted
from masonry structures for determining conformance or non-conformance to the property requirements (Section 5) of this
standard is beyond the scope of this specification.
1.3 Tile covered by this specification are manufactured from clay, shale, or similar naturally occurring substances and subjected
to a heat treatment at elevated temperatures (firing). The heat treatment must develop sufficient fired bond between the particulate
constituents to provide the strength and durability requirements of this specification. (See firing and fired bond in Terminology
C1232.)
1.4 Fireproofing tile intended for use in load-bearing masonry shall conform to Specification C34.
1.5 Tile intended for use in fireproofing structural members shall be of such sizes and shapes that they can be erected to cover
completely the exposed surfaces of the members.
1.4 The text of this specification references notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of this specification.
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C15.02 on Brick
and Structural Clay Tile.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2017Dec. 1, 2022. Published January 2018December 2022. Originally approved in 1924. Last previous edition approved in 20132017
as C56 – 13.C56 – 13(2017). DOI: 10.1520/C0056-13R17.10.1520/C0056-22.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C56 − 22
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C34 Specification for Structural Clay Loadbearing Wall Tile
C67C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
C1232 Terminology for Masonry
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions relating to structural clay nonload-bearing wall tile, refer to Terminology C1232.
4. Classification
4.1 One grade of tile is covered, designated Grade NB.
4.2 If tile having a particular color (Note 1), texture, or finish are desired, these features shall be specified separately by the
purchaser.
NOTE 1—Color of tile varies with the type of clay used and degree of firing; hence, it cannot be taken as indicative of classification until after it has been
related to absorption by actual tests.
5. Physical Properties
5.1 Structural clay nonloadbearing tile tile, when tested in accordance with Test Methods C67/C67M, shall conform to the
following requirements for absorption:
A
Absorption by 1-h Boiling, %
Grade Individual Maximum
NB 28
A
The range in percentage absorption for tile delivered to any one job shall be not more than 12.
6. Dimensions and Permissible Variations
6.1 No overall dimension shall vary more than 3 % over or under the specified dimension for any form or size of tile. See Note
21.
NOTE 1—Purchasers and designers should ascertain the type and size of tile, modular or non-modular, available in the locality under consideration and
should specify accordingly, stating the size and type represented by the available tile.
Modular sizes are designated by the specified nominal dimensions which are equal to the actual manufactured dimensions plus the thickness of one
mortar joint, not to exceed ⁄2 in. (12.7 mm). For example, if the modular, specified, or nominal dimensions of a unit are 4 by 8 by 12 in. (102 by 203
1 1 1
by 305 mm) the actual manufactured dimensions may be 3 ⁄2 by 7 ⁄2 by 11 ⁄2 in. (114.7 by 215.7 by 317.7 mm).
7. Finish and Appearance
7.1 All tile shall be reasonably free of laminations and of cracks, blisters, surface roughness, and other defects that would interfere
with the proper setting of the tile or impair the strength or permanence of the construction.
7.2 The finish of the outer face or faces of tile shall be plaster-base finish or exposed wall finish as specified in the invitation for
bids.
7.3 Surfaces of tile for plaster-base finish shall be smooth, scored, combed, or roughened. When smooth, the tile shall be free of
glaze and the absorption shall be not less than 5 % nor more than 25 %. When scored, eac
...