EN 438-4:2016
(Main)High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 4: Classification and specifications for compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater
High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 4: Classification and specifications for compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater
This European Standard specifies performance requirements for two types of compact laminate of thickness 2 mm or greater produced by using a high pressure process intended for interior use .
High-pressure decorative Compact laminates are characterised by their aesthetic qualities, strength, durability and functional performance. Compact HPL sheets are available in a wide variety of colours, patterns and surface finishes; they are extremely strong, and resistant to wear, impact, scratching, moisture, heat and staining; and possess good hygienic and anti-static properties, being easy to clean and maintain.
EN 438-2 specifies the methods of test relevant to this European Standard.
Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) - Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze (Schichtpressstoffe) - Teil 4: Klassifizierung und Spezifikationen für Kompakt-Schichtpressstoffe mit einer Dicke von 2 mm und größer
Diese Europäische Norm legt die Leistungsanforderungen für zwei Kompakt Schichtpressstofftypen mit einer Dicke von 2 mm oder größer fest, die für die Innenanwendung vorgesehen sind.
Die dekorativen Hochdruck Kompakt-Schichtpressstoffe sind charakterisiert durch ihre ästhetische Beschaf¬fenheit, ihre Festigkeit, Dauergebrauchstauglichkeit und Beanspruchungsfähigkeit. Kompakt-HPL-Platten sind in einer Vielzahl von Farben, Dekoren und Oberflächenausführungen verfügbar; sie sind äußerst robust und widerstandsfähig gegen Abrieb, Stoß, Verkratzen, Feuchtigkeit, Hitze und Fleckenbildung; sie besitzen gute hygienische und antistatische Eigenschaften und sind leicht zu reinigen und zu pflegen.
Die für diese Europäische Norm zutreffenden Prüfverfahren sind in EN 438-2 festgelegt.
Stratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base de résines thermodurcissables (communément appelées stratifiés) - Partie 4: Classification et spécifications des stratifiés compacts d'épaisseur égale ou supérieure à 2 mm
La présente Norme européenne spécifie les exigences de performance de deux types de stratifiés compacts d’épaisseur égale ou supérieure à 2 mm produits en utilisant un procédé haute pression destinés à être utilisés à l’intérieur.
Les stratifiés décoratifs haute pression compacts se caractérisent par leurs qualités esthétiques, leur résistance, leur durabilité et leur performance fonctionnelle. Les stratifiés HPL compacts sont disponibles dans une grande diversité de couleurs, motifs et finitions de surface ; ils sont extrêmement robustes et résistants à l'usure, au choc, à la rayure, à l'humidité, à la chaleur et aux taches et possèdent de bonnes caractéristiques hygiéniques et antistatiques, tout en étant faciles à nettoyer et à entretenir.
L’EN 438-2 spécifie les méthodes d’essai correspondant à la présente Norme européenne.
Dekorativni visokotlačni laminati (HPL) - Plošče na osnovi duromernih smol - 4. del: Razvrstitev in specifikacije za 2 mm in več debele kompaktne laminate
Ta del standarda EN 438 določa zahteve glede učinkovitosti za dve vrsti kompaktnih laminatov z debelino vsaj 2 mm, ki so izdelani z visokotlačnim postopkom in namenjeni samo za notranjo uporabo.
Za kompaktne dekorativne visokotlačne laminate so značilne estetska kakovost, trdnost, trajnost in funkcionalne lastnosti. Kompaktne dekorativne visokotlačne laminatne plošče so na voljo v številnih barvah ter s številnimi vzorci in premazi, so izjemno trpežne in odporne na vodo, praske, udarce, toploto in madeže ter imajo dobre higienske in antistatične lastnosti, zaradi česar so preproste za čiščenje in vzdrževanje.
EN 438-2 določa preskusne metode, ustrezne za ta del standarda EN 438.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 16-Feb-2016
- Technical Committee
- CEN/TC 249 - Plastics
- Current Stage
- 9093 - Decision to confirm - Review Enquiry
- Start Date
- 03-Sep-2021
- Completion Date
- 14-Apr-2025
- Directive
- 89/106/EEC - Construction products
Relations
- Effective Date
- 12-Sep-2012
Overview
EN 438-4:2016 is the CEN European Standard that defines classification and performance requirements for compact high‑pressure decorative laminates (HPL) of thickness 2 mm and greater intended for interior use. It sets the acceptance criteria, inspection methods and dimensional tolerances for compact HPL sheets - materials known for aesthetic variety, strength, durability and ease of maintenance. Test methods referenced for verification are given in EN 438-2.
Key topics and technical requirements
Scope and classification
- Applies to compact laminates produced by a high‑pressure process for interior applications.
- Uses a three‑letter classification system (e.g., CGS = compact general purpose standard grade; CGF = compact grade with improved fire retardance).
Inspection and visual quality
- Visual inspection distances and acceptance criteria for colour, pattern and surface finish (including gloss tolerances measured per EN 13722).
- Permissible surface defects (contamination area and length limits), and allowable edge chipping.
Dimensional tolerances
- Thickness, length/width, edge straightness, squareness and flatness limits are specified (tolerance bands depend on nominal thickness).
Performance tests and minimum properties
- Mandatory property tests (methods in EN 438-2) cover:
- Resistance to surface wear
- Resistance to immersion in boiling water and water vapour
- Resistance to dry and wet heat
- Dimensional stability at elevated temperatures
- Impact resistance, crazing, scratching and staining resistance
- Light fastness (xenon arc), flexural strength and modulus, density
- CGF grade includes additional fire‑performance requirements and references EN 13501‑1 for reaction‑to‑fire classification; Annex A adds guidance on fire performance where applicable.
- Mandatory property tests (methods in EN 438-2) cover:
Applications and users
- Typical applications: wall cladding, partitions, doors, sanitary cubicles, lockers, laboratory bench tops and other self‑supporting components in building interiors, marine and transport interiors (subject to specific approvals).
- Who uses EN 438-4:2016:
- Manufacturers for product classification and factory quality control
- Architects and designers specifying durable interior surfaces
- Specifiers and procurement teams writing performance‑based clauses
- Fabricators and installers for acceptance criteria of delivered sheets
- Testing laboratories and compliance officers validating conformity with EN 438 family requirements
Related standards
- EN 438-2:2016 (test methods for HPL)
- EN 13501-1 (fire classification)
- EN 13722 (gloss measurement)
- EN ISO 178, EN ISO 1183-1, EN ISO 11664-2, EN 61340-4-1 (referenced test/method standards)
EN 438-4:2016 is essential when specifying or assessing compact HPL for interior projects where predictable durability, appearance and safety performance are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
EN 438-4:2016 is a standard published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 4: Classification and specifications for compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater". This standard covers: This European Standard specifies performance requirements for two types of compact laminate of thickness 2 mm or greater produced by using a high pressure process intended for interior use . High-pressure decorative Compact laminates are characterised by their aesthetic qualities, strength, durability and functional performance. Compact HPL sheets are available in a wide variety of colours, patterns and surface finishes; they are extremely strong, and resistant to wear, impact, scratching, moisture, heat and staining; and possess good hygienic and anti-static properties, being easy to clean and maintain. EN 438-2 specifies the methods of test relevant to this European Standard.
This European Standard specifies performance requirements for two types of compact laminate of thickness 2 mm or greater produced by using a high pressure process intended for interior use . High-pressure decorative Compact laminates are characterised by their aesthetic qualities, strength, durability and functional performance. Compact HPL sheets are available in a wide variety of colours, patterns and surface finishes; they are extremely strong, and resistant to wear, impact, scratching, moisture, heat and staining; and possess good hygienic and anti-static properties, being easy to clean and maintain. EN 438-2 specifies the methods of test relevant to this European Standard.
EN 438-4:2016 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 83.140.20 - Laminated sheets. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
EN 438-4:2016 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN 438-4:2005. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
EN 438-4:2016 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 305/2011, 89/106/EEC; Standardization Mandates: M/121. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
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Standards Content (Sample)
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) - Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze (Schichtpressstoffe) - Teil 4: Klassifizierung und Spezifikationen für Kompakt-Schichtpressstoffe mit einer Dicke von 2 mm und größerStratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base de résines thermodurcissables (communément appelées stratifiés) - Partie 4: Classification et spécifications des stratifiés compacts d'épaisseur égale ou supérieure à 2 mmHigh-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) - Part 4: Classification and specifications for compact
laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater83.140.20Laminated sheetsICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 438-4:2016SIST EN 438-4:2016en,fr,de01-april-2016SIST EN 438-4:2016SLOVENSKI
STANDARDSIST EN 438-4:20051DGRPHãþD
EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 438-4
February
t r s x ICS
z uä s v rä t r Supersedes EN
v u zæ vã t r r wEnglish Version
Classification and specifications for compact
laminates of thickness
t mm and greater spßcifications des stratifißs compacts d 5ßpaisseur ßgale ou supßrieure à
t mm æ Teil
vã Klassifizierung und Spezifikationen für KompaktæSchichtpressstoffe mit einer Dicke von
t mm und größer This European Standard was approved by CEN on
s u December
t r s wä
egulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alterationä Upætoædate lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CENæCENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN memberä
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CENæCENELEC Management Centre has the same status as the official versionsä
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austriaá Belgiumá Bulgariaá Croatiaá Cyprusá Czech Republicá Denmarká Estoniaá Finlandá Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedoniaá Franceá Germanyá Greeceá Hungaryá Icelandá Irelandá Italyá Latviaá Lithuaniaá Luxembourgá Maltaá Netherlandsá Norwayá Polandá Portugalá Romaniaá Slovakiaá Sloveniaá Spainá Swedená Switzerlandá Turkey andUnited Kingdomä
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre:
Avenue Marnix 17,
B-1000 Brussels
t r s x CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CEN national Membersä Refä Noä EN
v u zæ vã t r s x ESIST EN 438-4:2016
Page European foreword . 3 1 Scope . 4 2 Normative references . 4 3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviations . 4 3.1 Terms and definitions . 4 3.2 Symbols . 5 4 Material types and classification system . 5 5 Characteristics and applications . 5 6 Requirements . 6 6.1 Compliance . 6 6.2 Inspection requirements . 6 6.2.1 General . 6 6.2.2 Colour and pattern . 6 6.2.3 Surface finish . 6 6.2.4 Visual inspection . 7 6.3 Dimensional tolerance requirements . 7 6.4 Test requirements . 8 6.4.1 General requirements . 8 6.4.2 Notes on requirements for reaction to fire . 10 6.5 Supplemental properties . 10 Annex A (informative)
Addendum to sub-clause 6.4.2, relating to fire performance . 11 Bibliography . 12
·
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w MPa. 3.1.2 surface layer upper decorative layer consisting in one or more sheets of fibrous material (usually paper) impregnated with aminoplastic thermosetting resins (usually melamine based resins) SIST EN 438-4:2016
G (general purpose) S (standard grade) or F (flame-retardant grade) Type CGS Standard grade decorative Compact laminates are specified as HPL/EN 438-4/CGS. Type CGF Decorative Compact laminates with improved fire retardance are similar to type CGS but also meeting special requirements of specified tests which may vary according to the application (e.g. construction, marine, transport) and the country of use (see 6.4.2 and Annex A). Specified as HPL/EN 438-4/CGF. Other laminates having special characteristics are also available but these p
...
SIST EN 438-4:2016 표준은 내부 용도로 사용되는 두 가지 유형의 두께 2 mm 이상의 압축 라미네이트에 대한 성능 요구사항을 명확하게 규정하고 있습니다. 이 표준은 고압 공정으로 생산된 고압 장식 압축 라미네이트의 다양한 특성을 평가하기 위한 기준을 제공합니다. 이 표준의 강점은 먼저, 압축 HPL 시트가 제공하는 미적인 품질, 강도, 내구성 및 기능적 성능에 대한 포괄적인 지침을 포함하고 있다는 점입니다. EN 438-4:2016은 색상, 패턴, 표면 마감의 다양성을 통해 다양한 설계 요구사항을 충족할 수 있도록 하며, 이는 실내 환경에서의 활용도를 높입니다. 또한, 압축 라미네이트는 마모, 충격, 긁힘, 습기, 열 및 얼룩에 대한 저항력이 뛰어나며, 이로 인해 장기적인 사용이 가능합니다. 이러한 내구성은 유지 관리의 용이성과 더불어 위생적이고 정전기 방지 특성을 제공하여, 현대 실내 환경에서 매우 중요한 요소로 작용합니다. 마지막으로, EN 438-2는 이 표준에 관련된 시험 방법을 규정하고 있으며, 이를 통해 고품질 제품을 보장합니다. SIST EN 438-4:2016 표준은 고압 장식 라미네이트 분야에서의 품질 기준을 확립하고, 업계 전반에 걸쳐 신뢰성을 높이는 데 중요한 역할을 수행하고 있습니다.
The standard EN 438-4:2016 provides a comprehensive framework for high-pressure decorative laminates (HPL), specifically focusing on compact laminates with a thickness of 2 mm or greater. The scope of this European Standard is well-defined, emphasizing performance requirements for two distinct types of compact laminates intended primarily for interior applications. This clarity in scope ensures that manufacturers and consumers alike have a precise understanding of the product's intended use. One of the significant strengths of this standard is its thorough classification and specification criteria, which enable the identification of laminates that uphold high aesthetic and functional qualities. The detailed specifications allow for a wide range of design options, as compact HPL sheets are available in various colours, patterns, and surface finishes. This versatility is a considerable advantage, particularly in interior design where stylistic choices play a crucial role. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, compact laminates are lauded for their outstanding strength and durability. The standard highlights their resilient properties, which include resistance to wear, impact, scratching, moisture, heat, and staining. This resilience is particularly important for interior settings that experience high levels of use, ensuring long-term performance and satisfaction. The hygienic and anti-static properties outlined in the standard are also notable strengths. Compact HPL sheets are designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, which is an essential consideration for environments such as kitchens, hospitals, and commercial spaces where cleanliness is paramount. Furthermore, the alignment of EN 438-4:2016 with EN 438-2 reinforces the standard's robustness by specifying relevant testing methods. This connection ensures that the performance claims made about high-pressure decorative laminates are validated through recognized testing protocols, enhancing consumer trust in the product's quality. Overall, EN 438-4:2016 stands out as a vital standard in the realm of high-pressure decorative laminates, providing important classifications and specifications that enhance the usability and marketability of compact HPL sheets. Its focus on performance, durability, and hygienic properties underscores the relevance of this standard in today's industry, catering to both functional needs and aesthetic desires in modern interior design.
EN 438-4:2016は、2mm以上の厚さを持つ高圧装飾ラミネート（HPL）の標準規格であり、主に室内使用を目的としたコンパクトラミネートの性能要件を定めています。この標準は、コンパクトHPLシートの優れた美的特性、強度、耐久性、および機能的な性能を強調しています。また、様々な色、パターン、表面仕上げが利用可能であり、デザインの自由度が高いことが大きな利点です。 標準の強みは、その耐摩耗性、衝撃耐性、傷つきにくさ、湿気や熱、汚れへの抵抗性にあります。これにより、EN 438-4:2016は商業施設や住宅を問わず、さまざまな環境での利用に適しています。また、高い衛生状態を保つための抗菌性や静電気防止特性も備えており、簡単に清掃・メンテナンスができる点は特に現代の要求に応えるものです。 この標準の関連性は、建材や内装材における品質保証の重要性が高まっている中で、コンパクトラミネートが設計や施工においてどのように機能するかを具体的に示しているところにあります。EN 438-4:2016は、業界の基準を確立し、それに準拠することで製品信頼性を高めており、これからの建材選定において欠かせない指針となるでしょう。
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