SIST EN 438-2:2016

High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties

This European Standard specifies the methods of test for determination of the properties of high-pressure
decorative laminates as defined in Clause 3. These methods are primarily intended for testing the sheets
specified in EN 438-3, EN 438-4, EN 438-5, EN 438-6, EN 438-8, and EN 438-9.
The precision of the test methods, specified in this European Standard, is not known because interlaboratory
data are not yet available. When inter-laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements
will be added to the test method at the following revision. For those test methods having an end point
determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful to make a statement of precision.

Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) - Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze (Schichtpressstoffe) - Teil 2: Bestimmung der Eigenschaften

Diese Europäische Norm legt die Prüfverfahren für die Bestimmung der Eigenschaften der im Abschnitt 3 de¬finierten dekorativen Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) fest. Diese Verfahren sind vorzugsweise zur Prüfung der Schichtpressstoffplatten bestimmt, die in EN 438 3, EN 438 4, EN 438 5, EN 438 6, EN 438 8 und EN 438 9 beschrieben werden.
Die Präzision des Prüfverfahrens, welches in dieser Europäischen Norm festgelegt ist, ist nicht bekannt, da noch keine Daten aus Ringversuchen zur Verfügung stehen. Sobald Daten aus Ringversuchen vorliegen, werden in der folgenden Überarbeitung Angaben zur Präzision des Prüfverfahrens ergänzt. Für alle übrigen Prüfverfahren, die eine Festlegung des Endpunktes umfassen, die auf einer subjektiven Einschätzung beruht, ist es nicht sinnvoll, in diesen Fällen eine Aussage zur Präzision zu machen.

Stratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base de résines thermodurcissables (communément appelées stratifiés) - Partie 2: Détermination des propriétés

La présente Norme européenne spécifie les méthodes d’essai pour la détermination des caractéristiques des plaques de stratifiés décoratifs haute pression définies à l’Article 3. Ces méthodes sont principalement destinées à la réalisation des essais sur les plaques spécifiées dans les EN 438-3, EN 438-4, EN 438-5, EN 438-6, EN 438-8 et EN 438-9.
La fidélité des méthodes d’essai, spécifiées dans la présente Norme européenne, n’est pas connue faute de données interlaboratoires. Lorsque des données interlaboratoires auront été obtenues, des états de fidélité seront ajoutés à la méthode d’essai dans une prochaine révision. Pour ces méthodes d’essai fondées sur une appréciation subjective du résultat final, il n’est pas significatif d’établir un état de fidélité dans ces cas.

Dekorativni visokotlačni laminati (HPL) - Plošče na osnovi duromernih smol - 2. del: Ugotavljanje lastnosti

Ta del standarda EN 438 določa preskusne metode za ugotavljanje lastnosti dekorativnih visokotlačnih laminatov, primarno določenih v delih od 3 do 6 in od 8 do 9.

General Information

• Status: Withdrawn
• Public Enquiry End Date: 04-Dec-2014
• Publication Date: 03-Mar-2016
• Withdrawal Date: 09-Jun-2020
• ICS: 83.140.20 - Laminated sheets
• Technical Committee: IPMA - Polimer materials and products
• Current Stage: 9900 - Withdrawal (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 10-Jun-2020
• Due Date: 03-Jul-2020
• Completion Date: 10-Jun-2020
• Directive: 89/106/EEC - Construction products
• Mandate: M/121 - Mandate to CEN/CENELEC concerning the execution of standardization work for harmonized standards on internal and external wall and ceiling finishes
• Ref Project: EN 438-2:2016 - High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties

Relations

• Consolidated By: SIST EN 438-2:2016+A1:2019 - High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
• Effective Date: 18-Jan-2023
• Consolidated By: SIST EN 438-2:2016+A1:2019 - High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
• Effective Date: 20-Mar-2019
• Consolidated By: SIST EN 438-2:2016+A1:2019 - High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
• Effective Date: 19-Jan-2023
• Replaces: SIST EN 438-2:2005 - High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called Laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2016
• Amended By: SIST EN 438-2:2016+A1:2019 - High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
• Effective Date: 26-Oct-2016

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 2: Bestimmung der EigenschaftenStratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base de résines thermodurcissables (communément appelées stratifiés) - Partie 2: Détermination des propriétésHigh-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties83.140.20Laminated sheetsICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 438-2:2016SIST EN 438-2:2016en,fr,de01-april-2016SIST EN 438-2:2016SLOVENSKI
STANDARDSIST EN 438-2:20051DGRPHãþD



SIST EN 438-2:2016



EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 438-2
February
t r s x ICS
z uä s v rä t r Supersedes EN
v u zæ tã t r r wEnglish Version
Determination of properties propriétés æ Teil
tã Bestimmung der Eigenschaften 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
9
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 tã t r s x ESIST EN 438-2:2016



EN 438-2:2016 (E) 2 Contents
Page European foreword . 8 1 Scope . 9 2 Normative references . 9 3 Terms and definitions . 10 4 Assessment of appearance . 10 4.1 Principle . 10 4.2 Apparatus . 10 4.3 Test specimen . 10 4.4 Procedure . 10 4.5 Test report . 11 5 Determination of thickness . 11 5.1 Principle . 11 5.2 Apparatus . 11 5.3 Test specimen . 11 5.4 Procedure . 11 5.5 Test report . 11 6 Determination of length and width . 12 6.1 Principle . 12 6.2 Apparatus . 12 6.3 Test specimen . 12 6.4 Procedure . 12 6.5 Expression of results . 12 6.6 Test report . 12 7 Determination of edge straightness . 12 7.1 Principle . 12 7.2 Apparatus . 12 7.3 Test specimen . 13 7.4 Procedure . 13 7.5 Expression of results . 13 7.6 Test report . 13 8 Determination of edge squareness . 14 8.1 Principle . 14 8.2 Apparatus . 14 8.3 Test specimen . 14 8.4 Procedure . 14 8.5 Expression of results . 14 8.6 Test report . 14 9 Determination of flatness . 15 9.1 Principle . 15 9.2 Apparatus . 15 9.3 Test specimens . 15 SIST EN 438-2:2016



EN 438-2:2016 (E) 3 9.4 Procedure . 15 9.5 Expression of results . 15 9.6 Test report . 16 10 Resistance to surface wear.16 10.1 Principle . 16 10.2 Materials . 16 10.3 Apparatus . 17 10.4 Test specimens . 18 10.5 Preparation of specimens and abrasive paper . 19 10.6 Procedure . 19 10.6.1 Preparation of abrasive wheels . 19 10.6.2 Calibration of abrasive paper . 19 10.6.3 Abrasion of specimen . 19 10.7 Expression of results . 20 10.8 Test report . 20 11 Resistance to abrasion (flooring grade laminates) .20 12 Resistance to immersion in boiling water .21 12.1 Principle . 21 12.2 Apparatus . 21 12.3 Test specimens . 21 12.4 Procedure . 21 12.5 Expression of results . 22 12.5.1 Calculation . 22 12.5.2 Surface rating scale . 22 12.5.3 Edge rating scale . 23 12.6 Test report . 23 13 Substrate protection against water vapour .23 13.1 Principle . 23 13.2 Apparatus . 23 13.3 Test specimens . 23 13.4 Procedure . 24 13.5 Expression of results . 24 13.6 Test report . 24 14 Resistance to water vapour .25 14.1 Principle . 25 14.2 Apparatus . 25 14.3 Test specimen . 25 14.4 Procedure . 25 14.5 Expression of results . 26 14.6 Test report . 26 15 Resistance to wet conditions (Exterior grade laminates) .27 15.1 Principle . 27 15.2 Apparatus . 27 15.3 Test specimens . 28 15.4 Procedure . 28 15.5 Expression of results . 28 15.5.1 Calculation . 28 15.5.2 Visual examination . 28 SIST EN 438-2:2016



EN 438-2:2016 (E) 4 15.6 Test report . 29 16 Resistance to dry heat . 29 16.1 Principle . 29 16.2 Apparatus and materials . 30 16.3 Test specimen . 31 16.4 Test procedure . 31 16.5 Examination of the test specimen . 32 16.6 Expression of results . 32 16.7 Test report . 32 17 Dimensional stability at elevated temperature . 33 17.1 Principle . 33 17.2 Apparatus . 33 17.3 Test specimens . 33 17.4 Procedure . 33 17.5 Expression of results . 34 17.6 Test report . 34 18 Resistance to wet heat . 35 18.1 Principle . 35 18.2 Apparatus and materials . 35 18.3 Test specimens . 36 18.4 Procedure . 36 18.5 Expression of results . 37 18.6 Test report . 37 19 Resistance to climatic shock (exterior grade laminates) . 37 19.1 Principle . 37 19.2 Apparatus . 37 19.3 Test specimens . 38 19.4 Procedure . 38 19.5 Expression of results . 39 19.5.1 Flexural strength and modulus of elasticity in flexure . 39 19.5.2 Appearance . 39 19.6 Test report . 39 20 Resistance to impact by small-diameter ball . 40 20.1 Principle . 40 20.2 Materials . 40 20.3 Apparatus . 40 20.4 Test specimens . 43 20.5 Calibration of the impact tester . 43 20.6 Procedure . 44 20.7 Expression of results . 45 20.8 Test report . 45 21 Resistance to impact by large diameter ball . 45 21.1 Principle . 45 21.2 Materials . 46 21.3 Apparatus . 46 21.4 Test specimens . 46 21.5 Procedure . 46 SIST EN 438-2:2016



EN 438-2:2016 (E) 5 21.6 Expression of results . 48 21.7 Test report . 49 22 Resistance to impact by large diameter ball (flooring grade laminates) .49 22.1 Principle . 49 22.2 Materials . 49 22.3 Apparatus . 49 22.4 Test specimens . 50 22.5 Procedure . 50 22.6 Expression of results . 50 22.7 Test report . 50 23
............................................................51 23.1 Principle ............................................................................................................................................................................. 51 23.2 Apparatus .......................................................................................................................................................................... 51 23.3 Test specimens ................................................................................................................................................................ 51 23.4 Procedure .......................................................................................................................................................................... 53 23.5 Expression of results ..................................................................................................................................................... 53 23.6 Test report ......
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
01-november-2014
'HNRUDWLYQLYLVRNRWODþQLODPLQDWL+3/3ORãþHQDRVQRYLGXURPHUQLKVPRO
GHO8JRWDYOMDQMHODVWQRVWL
High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) - Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze
(Schichtpressstoffe) - Teil 2: Bestimmung der Eigenschaften
Stratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base de résines
thermodurcissables (communément appelées stratifiés) - Partie 2: Détermination des
propriétés
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 438-2
ICS:
83.140.20 /DPLQDWQHSORãþH Laminated sheets
oSIST prEN 438-2:2014 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014

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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014

EUROPEAN STANDARD
DRAFT
prEN 438-2
NORME EUROPÉENNE

EUROPÄISCHE NORM

September 2014
ICS 83.140.20 Will supersede EN 438-2:2005
English Version
High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on
thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) - Part 2:
Determination of properties
Stratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) -
de résines thermodurcissables (communément appelées Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze (Schichtpressstoffe) - Teil
stratifiés) - Partie 2: Détermination des propriétés 2: Bestimmung der Eigenschaften
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee CEN/TC 249.

If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which
stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United
Kingdom.

Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware and to
provide supporting documentation.

Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without notice and
shall not be referred to as a European Standard.


EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels
© 2014 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 438-2:2014 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
Contents Page
Foreword 4
1 Scope 5
2 Normative references 5
3 Terms and definitions 6
4 Assessment of appearance 6
5 Determination of thickness 7
6 Determination of length and width 8
7 Determination of edge straightness 9
8 Determination of edge squareness 10
9 Determination of flatness 12
10 Resistance to surface wear 13
11 Resistance to abrasion (flooring grade laminates) 17
12 Resistance to immersion in boiling water 17
13 Substrate protection against water vapour 20
14 Resistance to water vapour 22
15 Resistance to wet conditions (Exterior grade laminates) 24
16 Resistance to dry heat 26
17 Dimensional stability at elevated temperature 29
18 Resistance to wet heat 30
19 Resistance to climatic shock (exterior grade laminates) 33
20 Resistance to impact by small-diameter ball 36
21 Resistance to impact by large diameter ball 41
22 Resistance to impact by large diameter ball (flooring grade laminates) 45
23 Resistance to cracking under stress (laminates ≤ 2 mm thick) 46
24 Resistance to crazing (Compact laminates) 50
25 Resistance to scratching 52
26 Resistance to staining 58
27 Light fastness (Xenon arc) 62
28 Resistance to UV light (Exterior grade laminates) 65
29 Resistance to artificial weathering (Exterior grade laminates) 66
30 Testing Method deleted 68
31 Formability (Method A) 68
32 Formability (Method B) 71
33 Resistance to blistering (Method A) 75
34 Resistance to blistering (Method B) 76
35 Determination of the microscratch resistance 77
2

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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
Annex A (Informative) Surface finish and colour influence on surface evaluations 85
Annex B (Informative) Calibration and maintenance of abrasion equipment 86
Annex C (Normative) Measurement of shore A hardness 90
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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
Foreword
This document (prEN 438-2:2014) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 249 “Plastics”, the
secretariat of which is held by NBN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 438-2:2005.
EN 438 consists of the following parts:
 EN 438-1 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 1: Introduction and general information
 EN 438-2 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 2: Determination of properties
 EN 438-3 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 3: Classification and specifications for laminates less than 2 mm thick
intended for bonding to supporting substrates
 EN 438-4 Plastics — 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
 EN 438-5 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 5: Classification and specifications for flooring grade laminates less than
2 mm thick intended for bonding to supporting substrates
 EN 438-6 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 6: Classification and specifications for Exterior-grade Compact laminates of
thickness 2 mm and greater
 EN 438-7 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 7: Compact laminate and HPL composite panels for internal and external
wall and ceiling finishes
 EN 438-8 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 8: Classification and specifications for design laminates
 EN 438-9 Plastics — High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(Usually called Laminates) - Part 9: Classification and specifications for alternative core laminates






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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
1 Scope
This part of EN 438 specifies the methods of test for determination of the properties of high-pressure decorative
laminates as defined in Clause 3. These methods are primarily intended for testing the sheets specified in EN
438-3, EN 438-4, EN 438-5, EN 438-6, EN 438-8, and EN 438-9.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are indispensable
for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 31, Particleboards — Specifications
EN 316, Wood fibreboards — Definition, classification and symbols
EN ISO 62, Plastics — Determination of water absorption (ISO 62)
EN ISO 178, Plastics — Determination of flexural properties (ISO 178)
EN ISO 291:2008, Plastics — Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing (ISO 291:2008)
EN ISO 2813, Paints and varnishes — Determination of specular gloss of non-metallic paint films at 20°, 60° and
85°
EN ISO 4287:1998/A1:2009, Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) - Surface texture: Profile method - Terms,
definitions and surface texture parameters - Amendment 1: Peak count number (ISO 4287:1997/Amd 1:2009)
EN ISO 4288:1997, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) - Surface texture: Profile method - Rules
and procedures for the assessment of surface texture (ISO 4288:1996)

EN ISO 4892-1:2013, Plastics — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources - Part 1: General guidance
(ISO 4892-1)

EN ISO 4892-2:2013, Plastics — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources - Part 2: Xenon-arc sources
(ISO 4892-2)
EN ISO 4892-3:2013, Plastics — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources - Part 3: Fluorescent  UV
lamps (ISO 4892-3)
EN ISO 6506-1, Metallic materials — Brinell hardness test - Part 1: Test method (ISO 6506-1)
EN ISO 12945-2, Textiles — Determination of fabric propensity to surface fuzzing and to pilling — Part 2:
Modified Martindale method

EN ISO 12947-1, Textiles — Determination of the abrasion resistance of fabrics — Part 1: Martindale abrasion
testing apparatus
ISO 48:2010, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic — Determination of hardness (hardness  between 10 IRHD
and 100 IRHD)
ISO 105-A02, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Grey scale for assessing change in colour
ISO 209:2007, Aluminium and aluminium alloys — Chemical composition
ISO 1770:1981/Amd 1:1983, Solid-stem general purpose thermometers
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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
ISO 7267-2:2008, Rubber-covered rollers — Determination of apparent hardness — Part 2:Shore-type
durometer method
ISO 9370, Plastics — Instrumental determination of radiant exposure in weathering tests — General guidance
and basic test method

3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 438-1 apply.

4 Assessment of appearance
4.1 Principle
Laminates shall be inspected for surface appearance under standardised conditions of lighting and viewing.
4.2 Apparatus
4.2.1 Horizontal inspection table, of height approximately 700 mm and large enough to accommodate the
largest sheets to be inspected.
4.2.2 The light source shall provide a diffused illumination of (1200 ± 400) lx over the whole area of the largest
sheets to be inspected. This may be either diffused daylight or diffused artificial daylight.
The daylight shall be unaffected by surrounding trees, etc. When artificial daylight is used, it shall have a
correlated colour temperature of (5000 to 6500) K. Both of them shall be in accordance with EN ISO 3668.

A convenient distance of the lights from the inspection table is approximately 1,5 m.

4.3 Test specimen
The specimen shall be the laminate under test, as supplied by the manufacturer.
4.4 Procedure
Place the laminate, decorative face uppermost, on the inspection table. Wipe it free of any loose contamination
with a soft cloth, using a suitable cleaning agent if necessary. Inspect it from the distance required by the relevant
part of EN 438 for defects such as smudges, smears, fingerprints, scratches, foreign particles, damage or any
other form of blemish evident within the decorative surface. In case of cut to size panels of high-pressure
decorative alternative core laminate(s), the inspection shall be performed on the edges too. The evaluation of the
total area of spot-type defects in square millimetres and of the total length of hair-like defects in millimetres may
be carried out with the help of the Tappi Size Estimation Chart or with an equivalent system. In case of dispute
the inspection shall be carried out at a distance between 750 mm to 900 mm using the Tappi Chart or an
equivalent system.
The inspector shall use normal vision, corrected if necessary. In cases of doubt or dispute, three observers shall
be required for the visual assessment. All observers shall have good colour vision. In case of three observers, the
reported rating for the test surface shall be the average to the nearest nominal value.

NOTE: Dirt size estimation chart (transparency) to evaluate the surface defects size. The chart product
0109DIRTT is recommended by both ISO/TC 219 and CEN/TC 134, and is available from TAPPI, Technology
Park, P.O. Box 105113, Atlanta, GA 30348-5113, USA, www.tappi.org.

6

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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
4.5 Test report
The test report shall include the following information:
a) reference to this part of EN 438;
b) name, type and nominal thickness of the product;
c) size of the laminate under test;
d) viewing distance;
e) total area of spot-type defects in square millimetres;
f) total length of hair-like defects in millimetres;
g) any deviation from the specified test method;
h) date of the test.


4.6 Measurements uncertainty
The precision of the this test method is not known because inter-laboratory data are not yet available. When inter-
laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements will be added to the test method at the following revision.
As all the other test methods have an end point determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful
to make a statement of precision in this cases.

5 Determination of thickness
5.1 Principle
The thickness of a laminate is measured using a micrometer or a dial gauge indicator.
5.2 Apparatus
Thickness gauge, (ratchet-type micrometer or dial gauge indicator), having two flat parallel measuring surfaces of
diameter 6 mm and capable of being read to 0,01 mm. When the thickness of a decorative laminate is being
measured, the two surfaces shall exert a pressure of 10 kPa to 100 kPa upon each other.
5.3 Test specimen
The specimen shall be the laminate under test, as supplied by the manufacturer.
5.4 Procedure
Check the gauge for accuracy and then determine the thickness of the laminate to the nearest 0,01 mm. The
thickness shall be measured at the centre of each edge, at a distance of at least 20 mm from the edge of the
sheet.
5.5 Test report
The test report shall include the following information:
a) reference to this part of EN 438;
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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)
b) name, type and nominal thickness of the product;
c) all values measured;
d) any deviation from the specified test method;
e) date of the test.

5.6 Measurements uncertainty

The precision of the this test method is not known because inter-laboratory data are not yet available. When inter-
laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements will be added to the test method at the following revision.
As all the other test methods have an end point determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful
to make a statement of precision in this cases.

6 Determination of length and width
6.1 Principle
Measuring the length and width of the laminate using a metal tape or rule.
6.2 Apparatus
Steel tape or rule, of sufficient length to measure the greatest dimension of the laminate, and graduated to allow a
reading accuracy of 1 mm.
6.3 Test specimen
The specimen shall be the laminate under test, as supplied by the manufacturer.
6.4 Procedure
Apply the steel tape or rule (see 6.2) to each edge of the laminate in turn, on a line approximately 25 mm from
and parallel to the edge. Measure the length on each edge to the nearest 1 mm.
6.5 Expression of results
The arithmetical means of the pairs of length and width measurements shall be calculated and expressed to the
nearest 1 mm as the length and width of the laminate.
6.6 Test report
The test report shall include the following information:
a) reference to this part of EN 438;
b) name, type and nominal thickness of the product;
c) length and width values;
d) any deviation from the specified test method;
e) date of the test.
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oSIST prEN 438-2:2014
prEN 438-2:2014 (E)

6.7 Measurements uncertainty

The precision of the this test method is not known because inter-laboratory data are not yet available. When inter-
laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements will be added to the test method at the following revision.
As all the other test methods have an end point determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful
to make a statement of precision in this cases.

7 Determination of edge straightness
7.1 Principle
Applying a metal straightedge to the edge of the laminate and measuring the deviation of the sheet edge from the
metal straightedge using a steel rule.
7.2 Apparatus
7.2.1 Metal straightedge, of 1000 mm length.
7.2.2 Steel rule, graduated in 0,5 mm divisions.
7.3 Test specimen
The specimen shall be the laminate under test, as supplied by the manufacturer.
7.4 Procedure
Apply the metal straightedge (see 7.2.1) to each edge of the laminate in turn, and use the steel rule (see 7.2.2) to
measure the maximum deviation of the edge of the laminate from the metal straightedge (x in Figure 1) to the
nearest 0,5 mm

.

Key
1 Metal straightedge
2 Laminate
Figure 1 — Edge straightness measurement
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7.5 Expression of results
The maximum deviation from the metal straightedge shall be recorded for each of the four edges. Results shall be
designated (+) if the edge is convex, and (-) if the edge is concave.
7.6 Test report
The test report shall include the following information:
a) reference to this part of EN 438;
b) name, type and nominal thickness of the product;
c) test result for each of the four edges;
d) any deviation from the specified test method;
e) date of the test.

7.7 Measurements uncertainty

The precision of the this test method is not known because inter-laboratory data are not yet available. When inter-
laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements will be added to the test method at the following revision.
As all the other test methods have an end point determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful
to make a statement of precision in this cases.

8 Determination of edge squareness
8.1 Principle
Applying a right-angled square to the corner of the laminate and measuring the deviation of the edge from the
square using a steel rule.
8.2  Apparatus
8.2.1  Right-angled square, with one arm of at least 1000 mm long (see Figure 2).
8.2.2  Steel rule, graduated in 0,5 mm divisions.
8.3 Test specimen
The specimen shall be the laminate under test as supplied by the manufacturer.
8.4 Procedure
Apply the right-angled square (see 8.2.1) to one corner of the laminate and measure the deviation of the edge of
the laminate from the arm of the square at a distance of 1 metre from the corner. Record the results to the
nearest 0,5 mm. Repeat the procedure with the square applied to the diagonally opposite corner of the laminate.




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Dimension in millimetres

Key
1 Right-angled square
2 Laminate
Figure 2 — Edge squareness measurement

8.5 Expression of results
The maximum deviation from the square shall be recorded for the two diagonally opposite corners (x in Figure 2).
8.6 Test report
The test report shall include the following information:
a) reference to this part of EN 438;
b) name, type and nominal thickness of the product;
c) test result;
d) any deviation from the specified test method;
e) date of the test.

8.7 Measurements uncertainty

The precision of the this test method is not known because inter-laboratory data are not yet available. When inter-
laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements will be added to the test method at the following revision.
As all the other test methods have an end point determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful
to make a statement of precision in this cases.

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9 Determination of flatness
9.1 Principle
Measuring the bow (flatness deviation) of the laminate using a bow gauge placed at the position of greatest
deformation.
9.2 Apparatus
Bow gauge, of length 1 000 mm graduated to permit a reading accuracy of 0,1 mm (see Figure 3).
         Dimension in millimetres


Figure 3 — Bow gauge for measuring flatness
9.3 Test specimens
The specimen shall be the laminate as supplied by the manufacturer. In cases of dispute the laminate must be
pre-conditioned in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations until equilibrium is reached.
9.4 Procedure
Place the laminate concave side up without restraint on a flat horizontal surface.
Place the bow gauge (see 9.2) so that the three feet (two fixed and one movable) are lightly touching the surface
of the laminate in the area of greatest deformation, and measure the flatness deviation (shown on the dial gauge)
to the nearest 0,1 mm.
9.5 Expression of results
The maximum flatness deviation measured using the bow gauge shall be recorded.
9.6 Test report
The test report shall include the following information:
a) reference to this part of EN 438;
b) name, type and nominal thickness of the product;
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c) maximum flatness deviation;
d) any deviation from the specified test method;
e) date of the test.

9.7 Measurements uncertainty

The precision of the this test method is not known because inter-laboratory data are not yet available. When inter-
laboratory data will be obtained, precision statements will be added to the test method at the following revision.
As all the other test methods have an end point determination based on subjective judgement, it is not meaningful
to make a statement of precision in this cases.

10 Resistance to surface wear
10.1 Principle
The test measures the ability of the decorative surface of the laminate under test to resist abrasive wear through
to the sub-layer. Abrasion is achieved by rotating a specimen in contact with a pair of loaded cylindrical wheels
covered with abrasive paper. The wheels are positioned so that their cylindrical faces are equidistant from the
specimen's axis of rotation but not tangential to it. As they are turned by the rotating specimen they abrade an
annular track on the specimen's surface. The numbers of revolutions of the specimen required to cause defined
degrees of abrasion are used as measures of resistance to surface wear. This test is not applicable to flooring
grade laminates.
10.2 Materials
Calibration plates of rolled zinc sheet, (Taber S-34 or equivalent), having a thickness of (0,8 ± 0,1) mm and a
Brinell hardness of (48 ± 2) when tested in accordance with EN ISO 6506-1, except that the ball diameter shall be
5 mm and the load 360 N.
The zinc plate shall not be used for more than 10 calibrations per side.
10.2.1 Abrasive paper strips, (Taber S-42 or equivalent), of width 12,7 mm and length about 160 mm, having
the following composition:
2 2
a) paper of grammage 70 g/m to 100 g/m ;
b) open coated 180 grit powdered aluminium oxide (Al O ) having a particle size such that it will pass through a
2 3
sieve of aperture 100 μm and remain on a sieve having an aperture of 63 μm;
c) adhesive backing (optional).
10.2.2  Double-sided adhesive tape, required only if the abrasive paper has no adhesive backing.
10.2.3  Dirt size estimation chart (transparency), evaluate the wear through size. The chart, product code
0109DIRTT, is recommended by both ISO/TC 219 and CEN/TC 134 and is available from TAPPI, Technology
Park, P.O. Box 105113, Atlanta, GA 30348-5113, USA, www.tappi.org.

10.3 Apparatus
10.3.1 Abrasion resistance testing machine

The test machine consists of the following items, see Figure 4:
a) test specimen holder in the form of a disc (key 7) which rotates in a horizontal plane at a frequency of (58 to
  62) rpm and to which the test specimen (key 6) can be clamped with a clamping screw (key 5);
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b) abrasive wheels (3), two cylindrical rubber-covered wheels of width (12,7 ± 0,1) mm and diameter 50 mm
  which rotate freely about a common axis. The curved surface of the wheels, to a depth of 6 mm, shall be
  of rubber (2) of hardness (65 ± 3) IRHD when tested according to ISO 48 or (65 ± 3) Shore A when tested
  according to ISO 7267-2 (see Annex C). The inside faces of the wheels shall be (52,5 ± 0,2) mm apart and
  equally spaced (26,25 ± 0,10) mm from the centre-line of the abrader head and their common axis of the
  wheels shall be 20 mm from the vertical axis of the test specimen holder;

c) holding and lifting device (key 8), for the abrasive wheels, so constructed that each wheel exerts a force of
   (5,4 ± 0,2) N on the test specimen;

d) revolution-counter;

e) suction device, so fitted that two nozzles (4) are over the abraded area of the test specimen. One nozzle
   shall be situated between the wheels, the other diametrically opposite. The centres of the nozzles shall be
   77 mm apart and (2 ± 0,5) mm from the surface of the test specimen. When the nozzles are closed there
   shall be a vacuum of (1,5 to 1,6) kPa.



Key
1 abrasive paper
2 rubber
3 abrasive wheel
4 suction nozzle
5 clamping screw
6 specimen
7 specimen holder disc
8 holding and lifting device


Figure 4 — Abrasion resistance testing machine
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NOTE 1: It is important to ensure that the abrasive wheels are in good condition, as variations in flatness,
hardness, regularity, roundness and width can significantly affect the test result.

NOTE 2: It is important that dimensions listed above and in Figure 4 are followed as deviations can lead to errors
exceeding 100%. See Annex B for more information.

NOTE 3: A suitable machine is available from Taber Acquisition Corp., Taber Industries, 455 Bryant St, P.O. Box
164, North Tonawanda, NY 14120, USA. (This test machine is an example of a suitable machine available
commercially. This information is given for the convenience of users of this part of EN 438 and does not constitute
an endorsement by CEN of the machine)

10.3.2 Conditioning chamber, in accordance with EN ISO 291,with a standard atmosphere of (23 ± 2) °C,
relative humidity (50 ± 5) %.
10.4 Test specimens
Each specimen shall be a piece of the laminate under test, shaped to fit the type of clamping device used. It will
usually be a disc of diameter about 130 mm, or a square of about 100 mm with its corners rounded to give a
diagonal of about 130 mm, and it will usually have a hole of diameter 6 mm in its centre. Three specimens shall
be prepared. One specimen is suitable in case of factory production controls, meanwhile all the three specimens
shall be tested in case for assessment of conformity or dispute.
10.5 Preparation of specimens and abrasive paper
Clean the surface of the specimens with a non-hazardous organic solvent which is immiscible with water. Using a
suitable marker pen, mark the surface of each specimen with two lines mutually at right angles so that the surface
area is divided into quadrants.
Precondition the specimens and the abrasive strips for at least 72 h in the conditioning atmosphere (see 10.3.2)
before testing. After preconditioning seal the paper strips in suitable polythene bags (maximum 10 strips per bag)
until required for immediate use.
10.6 Procedure
10.6.1 Preparation of abrasive wheels
Bond a strip of preconditioned unused abrasive paper (see 10.2.1) to each of the rubber covered wheels, using
either the adhesive backing, if present, or the double-sided adhesive tape (see 10.2.2). Ensure that the cylindrical
surface is completely covered, but without any overlapping of the abrasive paper.
10.6.2 Calibration of abrasive paper
Prepare two abrasive wheels with preconditioned unused strips of abrasive paper from the batch to be used for
testing (see 10.6.1).
Clamp a zinc plate (see 10.2) in the specimen holder, start the suction device, set the revolution-counter to zero,
lower the wheels and abrade the zinc plate for 500 revolutions. Wipe the zinc plate clean and weigh to the
nearest 1 mg. Replace the abrasive paper on the wheels with preconditioned unused strips from the same batch,
clamp the same zinc plate in the specimen holder, lower the abrasive wheels and operate the suction device.
Abrad
...