Armstrong Floor Products - Technical Information Product Technology No. 2.1, Issue 04_2009 [41p]

Technical Manual – Floor coverings

1 Construction Technology

1.1 Sound Insulation, Impact Sound Absorption and Noise Reduction by floor coverings

1.2 Heat Insulation, Thermal Insulation by floor coverings

1.3 Fire Safety, Flammability of floor coverings

2 Product Technology

2.1 Electrostatic Behaviour of floor coverings

2.2 Testing and Classification of Resilient Commercial floor coverings

2.3 Testing and Classification of Fibrebonded floor coverings

3 Cleaning Technology

3.1 Characteristics of Cleaning Technology for Selection of floor coverings

3.2 Disinfection of Resilient floor coverings

Armstrong DLW AG • Technical Information • Construction Technology No. 1.1 • Issue 04 / 2009 Page 1

Technical Information

Construction Technology No. 1.1, Issue 04 / 2009

Armstrong Floor Products Armstrong DLW AG Product Information Stuttgarter Str. 75 D-74321 Bietigheim-Bissingen Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 845 Fax: +49 7142 - 71 650

Sound Insulation, Impact Sound Absorption and Noise Reduction by floor coverings

1 General The main function of sound insulation is to protect us from the ever-increasing exposure to noise re-garding the propagation of noise from outside, sound from our own and external homes and workplaces as well as from sound transmitted from stairwells, lifts or other specific sources of noise. This achieved by means of sound insulation and noise reduction. The requirements and necessary verifications for sound insulation are specified in individual ordinances issued in Germany by the construction authorities and in DIN 4109 "Sound Insulation in Buildings". As regards verifications for sound insulation in a construction project in Ger-many elastic floor coverings may not be taken into account due to the possibility of their replacement and wear.

2 Sound transmission Noise can greatly impair our well-being and is transmitted from one room to another by various means. Here we distinguish between airborne, structure-borne and impact sound.

3 Terms and definitions Airborne sound: Noise is propagated in the air in the form of sound waves. If airborne sound waves encounter spatial limits such as walls or ceilings, they will cause them to vibrate. The airborne sound is transformed into structure-borne sound and is then transmitted further to adjacent rooms as at-tenuated airborne sound. Airborne sound can penetrate openings, joints and cracks in walls un-hindered.

The transmission of airborne sound can be re-duced by the use of heavy solid building materials and tightly closing doors and windows. Textile floor coverings and furnishings/fittings such as uphol-stered furniture and window decorations act as ab-sorption areas and also absorb airborne sound. Structure-borne sound: Structure-borne sound is produced through direct action, e.g. knocking or striking solid bodies/objects. Some of the sound waves are propagated to neighbouring rooms but a greater part is transmitted to adjacent building structures. Errors in building design, so-called acoustic bridges such as continuous concrete slabs in terraced housing, encourage structure-borne sound. Impact sound: Impact sound is a type of struc-ture-borne sound which occurs when walking or when furniture is moved. It is propagated on the one hand to the rooms underneath as airborne sound and on the other, to the rooms underneath via the parts of the building. Floating screed can be used to counteract impact sound. Resilient floor coverings with an insulating under-lay and in particular textile floor coverings can re-duce the sound of feet. Noise reduction: Sound absorption (noise reduc-tion) is the ability of surfaces and building parts to absorb sound energy. This is achieved by the use of porous materials, perforated building parts with back lining or building parts with appropriate sur-face structures. The aim of such measures is to reduce the level of noise in a room as quickly as possible. Without noise reduction sound waves are repeat-edly reflected and may be superimposed with new sound waves. Such a room would be noisy, and in


extreme cases it would be virtually impossible to make oneself understood. Noise reduction is only possible with textile floor coverings. Resilient floor coverings, parquet or ceramic etc. do not absorb sound energy. There is not a great deal of difference in the levels of noise reduction offered by textile floor coverings. As the reverbera-tion time in a room is never influenced by the floor covering alone (other building parts, furniture or curtains are always involved), knowledge of the approximate noise reduction levels is sufficient in most cases. There are no official requirements on the noise re-duction levels of building materials / parts. The requirements in terms of the acoustics of a room depend on the type of usage involved and the resulting demands of the client. Acousticians then use suitable materials to achieve the desired reduction in the reverberation time for a room. Noise reduction levels are specified for the rele-vant measuring frequencies in Hertz (Hz). Noise reduction is limited at the lower end of the scale. It is important at approx. 1000 Hz as it is here that the maximum energy of the human voice is to be found.

4 Test methods

4.1 Measurement of impact sound absorption

Impact sound absorption is measured in a fre-quency range between 50Hz and 5000 Hz using one third octave bands. In the source room the floor slab is excited at vari-ous points with a standardised tapping machine (according to EN ISO 140, part 6), consisting of 5 hammers which strike the floor from a specified height of fall at specific intervals. In the receiving room underneath the resulting sound level for every hammer position is measured via the capaci-tor microphone with the sound level meter also be-ing positioned at different points of the room. The third octave band filter connected between the capacitor microphone and the sound level meter allows the sound level to be measured using one third octave bands in the above frequency range. The impact sound level (Ln,w) is used to evaluate impact sound absorption. This is the result of de-ducing the impact sound reduction ∆Lw of the cov-ering from the equivalent standard impact sound level Ln,w,eq (bare floor without covering) .

The unit of measurement is decibel (dB) in both cases. The German standard DIN 4109 specifies minimum impact sound insulation values which must be observed to ensure adequate impact sound insulation for slabs. The impact sound reduction values of different lay-ers in the construction structure may not be added together. If two coverings are used simultaneously, e.g. floating screed, insulating underlay and floor covering, only the higher value, either that of the floating screed or elastic underlay may be taken into account for the impact sound reduction ∆Lw .

4.2 Measurement of impact sound reduction

The impact sound reduction value is the difference between the evaluated standard impact sound lev-els of the reference slab without and with floor covering (e.g. soft floor covering). The impact sound reduction evaluated is indicated by ∆Lw. As the impact sound reduction value is de-termined using test rigs, this is indicated by the in-

dex P: ∆LW,P. To calculate impact sound levels in buildings, this value has to be reduced by 2 dB. This allows us to obtain the characteristic value for the impact sound

reduction, which is indicated by an R: ∆LW,R.

4.3 Measurement of airborne sound

Airborne sound can be measured regardless of its source. The sound level / acoustic pressure meas-ured is specified in dB. Measurement of the sound level / acoustic pressure is not linear but logarith-mic so that an increase of just 10 dB represents doubling of the sound level / acoustic pressure. This is also the reason why the human ear is nor-mally unable to perceive sound differences of less than 2 to 3 dB.

4.4 Measurement of noise

reduction Measurement of the reverberation time and calcu-lation of the resulting noise reduction levels is per-formed according to EN ISO 354 or EN 20354. For measurement a sound level is generated in a room and the time measured from switch-off of the acoustic source until the sound level is reduced by 60 dB (reverberation time). The reverberation time

is used to calculate the noise reduction level αS (alpha sabine). This is a measure of how much sound energy is absorbed by an area of material in


comparison with an area of identical size that is 100% absorbent. A comparison for a 100% noise reduction is e.g. a window opening onto an unob-structed landscape. The sound that escapes here is not reflected. A floor covering with an αS of 0.50 is thus half as effective as an open window of identical size. 5 Impact sound reduction of

Armstrong DLW floor coverings

The following overviews show the ranges of attain-able impact sound reduction according to meas-urements made at the test laboratory. The individ-ual values can be found in the relevant product data sheets.

5.1 Textile floor coverings

Type of flooring ∆∆∆∆LW,P in dB

Fibrebonded sheet flooring 20 - 22

Fibrebonded tiles approx. 19

5.2 Resilient floor coverings

5.2.1 Floor coverings without carrier


Vinyl homogeneous / heterogeneous 2 - 3

Linoleum 2.0 – 4.0 mm 3 - 6

5.2.2

Floor coverings with carrier (composite floor coverings)


Vinyl Acoustic (foam backing) approx. 19

Linoleum Acoustic (corkment) approx. 14

5.2.3 Separate installation on corkment


Linoleum on corkment 2.0 mm 14

Linoleum on corkment 3.2 mm 15





Heat Insulation, Thermal Insulation by floor coverings

1 General

Heat transfer is possible in different ways:

• via heat conduction, e.g. through an object

• via heat convection, e.g. by means of hot water or hot air heating

• via heat radiation, e.g. the sun.

In the case of floor coverings it is heat conduction that is of importance: it is the decisive factor for the heat insulation level of the floor covering.

2

Terms and definitions

2.1 Coefficient of thermal

conductivity λλλλ

The thermal conductivity of materials is character-

ised by the coefficient of thermal conductivity λ (lambda). The coefficient of thermal conductivity specifies the quantity of heat conducted in 1 hour (h) through 1 m² of a layer 1 m thick with steady-state heating if the temperature difference between the two surfaces is 1 kelvin (K). The unit is W/mK. Coefficient of thermal

conductivity λ = Layer thickness in m Thermal resistance

2.2 Thermal resistance

The thermal resistance is the coating thickness (d) in m divided by the coefficient of thermal conductiv-

ity (λ). It is the measure for the thermal performance of a building part, i.e. the resistance presented by the building part to the exchange of heat. The unit is m

2 / KW.

Thermal

=

Layer thick-ness

=

d

=

1

resistance coefficient of thermal con-ductivity

λ ∧

∧ Lambda = thermal transmission coefficient The coefficients of thermal conductivity of building materials are listed in the standard EN 12524 so that the thermal resistance can be calculated for every Layer thickness. This also applies to insula-tion layers with floating screed and floor coverings. The values for the thermal resistance of different layers can be added together. Floor coverings do NOT however have any rele-vance for calculations verifying the level of heat in-sulation.

3 Underfloor heating

3.1 Constructions

3.1.1 Electric underfloor storage heating

Electric underfloor storage heaters are supplied with off-peak electricity and give off the heat stored during the day. The storage capacity of the floor depends on its mass and the temperature. The temperature at the surface of the floor cover-ing should not exceed + 28° C. To ensure heat is given off at this level evenly throughout the day, heat brakes are required.

3.1.2 Electric underfloor heating Radiant heating elements are mainly laid on the floors of existing buildings and are then covered with a thin or medium bed of mortar. The heating lines are positioned immediately under the floor coverings and surrounded with protective conduc-tor braiding. Due to the high level of heat develop-


ment this type of heating is only recommend under ceramic tiling, stone flooring etc.

3.1.3 Hot water underfloor heating With hot water underfloor heating systems hot wa-ter is used to heat the substructure with a flow temperature of max. + 60° C. The heating thus op-erates as direct heating. The thermal resistance of the floor covering can be taken into account when designing the heating system so that no limit val-ues need to be observed. Heated floor constructions are divided into the fol-lowing types depending on the position of the heat-ing pipes:

• type A and C with the heating pipes in the screed (wet system)

• type B with the heating pipes below the screed (dry system)

________________________________________ To ensure economical operation of the underfloor heating and to also prevent damage to the heating system through overheating, the thermal resis-tance of all layers above the heating level should not generally exceed 0.15 m² K/W.

________________________________________

4 Armstrong DLW floor coverings suitable for underfloor heating systems

4.1

Textile floor coverings

All Armstrong DLW carpets whose thermal resis-tance does not exceed 0.15 m² K/W are suitable for installation on underfloor heating systems. This applies to all types of backing.


All qualities are suitable. The suitability for under-floor heating is noted in all technical specifications.

5 Installation In the case of underfloors a distinction is made be-tween wet and dry constructions: Dry constructions may consist of dry screed or other elements. The floor covering can be fitted once the joints have been filled. With wet constructions, the heating pipes or cables are embedded in floating cement or anhydrite

screed. Installation in flowing screed ensures the optimum cover of heating pipes or cables. This vir-tually eliminates trapped air, thus ensuring an ef-fective thermal output. Before installation of the floor covering in the wet construction it must be ensured that the moisture additionally expelled after drying of the screed is allowed to escape by exposure to heat. The heating system should therefore be heated up after the curing time of the screed, i.e. not less than 14 / 21 days, with anhydrite screed according to the manufacturer's instructions but not less than 7 days, increasing the flow temperature in stages of 10° C each day after installation. 1 day of heat-ing is required per cm of screed thickness. Here the maximum temperature should be maintained for at least 3 days. The heating should then be reduced in tempera-ture stages of max. 10° C per day. While running the heating up and down, the room should be ven-tilated, making sure it is protected from draughts. This process has to be carried out twice with heat-ing type A3. Such measures are the responsibility of the heat-ing installer, who must issue a record documenting their performance. If measuring points are marked in the heated screed, the flooring installer should check the moisture level of the floor before the floor covering is fitted. If however no measuring points are specified in the screed by the heating installer, concerns about the floor moisture level should be made in writing. Full-surface bonding should be used for all floor coverings using adhesives suitable for underfloor heating. The heating can be started up three days after fitting the floor covering.

5.2

Cleaning

Underfloor heating should be switched off prior to thorough treatment of Armstrong DLW floor cover-ings. It should only be started up again after the floor covering has completely dried or streaking may occur.





Fire Safety, Flammability of floor coverings

1 General The objective of fire protection (safety) is to pre-vent the spread of hazardous fires and in the event of a fire, to provide for effective fire fighting and the rescue of people and animals. For this reason, it is prohibited to use construction prod-ucts that are still easily flammable after installation in public buildings. The flammability of construction products and building elements has been laid down in EN 13501-1 since 2002. This is a European standard, which must be transposed into national law after a transitional period of 5 years, i.e. by 2007. Every member country of the European Union is responsible for incorporating and adopting this classification in its country-specific rules and regu-lations. Architects and building consultants are responsi-ble for ensuring that the stipulated flammability ratings are specified for the building materials to be used on individual construction projects and indicated in the tender documents. At the planning stage the building codes of each federal state of Germany and the associated regu-lations and directives must be taken into account to ensure that the invitation to tender includes the relevant requirements stipulated by the construc-tion authorities in relation to the flammability of the building materials for the respective construction project. In Germany class Efl ("normally flammable" build-ing materials) is generally sufficient for the private residential sector. In other buildings and areas which are not catego-rised as belonging to the private residential sector

the requirements in relation to fire safety are more stringent. There are two different groups:

1 Installations of standard type and usage: These are residential buildings and build-ings used for a comparable purpose. A distinction is made here between classes of buildings depending on the building height and number of dwelling units, whe-reby different stipulations governing fire safety need to be observed.

2 Installations of special type and usage: In this group additional regulations / direc-tives must be observed according to the type of installation, e.g. for:

• high-rise buildings

• sales outlets

• places of public assembly

• catering establishments

• hospitals

• industrial buildings

• garages

• places of work

• school buildings, etc. For installations of a special type and usage indi-vidual project-specific fire safety reports are gen-erally required. They list the fire safety ratings for the different building areas as specified by the fire safety expert. The fire safety reports are submit-ted to the regional construction authorities to-gether with the planning applications by the con-sultants and architects responsible for each con-struction project during the building approval proc-ess. In the event of any queries relating to the fire regulations advice is also available from a fire safety officer at the municipal fire brigade or the regional construction authorities.


All national fire classifications in the countries of the European Union have been superseded by the Euro classes Bfl-s1 and Cfl-s1 (fire-retardant) according to EN 13501-1, which are now binding in the European Union. fl = flooring s = smoke This European standard for the fire classification of construction products according to their reac-tion to fire tests lays down these new classes for the flammability of floor coverings, which are now applicable throughout Europe for the first time. The "CE mark" for floor coverings specifies the testing or classification of flammability according to EN 13501-1, whereby this must be confirmed by a declaration of conformity. This mark indicates that according to the manufacturer, a product sat-isfies the essential requirements of the corre-

sponding harmonised European standards and can be freely traded across boundaries in EU ter-ritory.

EN 13501-1 specifies the methods to be used for classifying the flammability of construction prod-ucts. The testing of floor coverings differs from that of customary construction products and is described separately in this standard. This standard will su-persede the national standards for the flammabil-ity of floor coverings still applicable in the individ-ual EU countries.

The following table comments on the new European fire classes. Table 1:

Class Comment

A1 fl Only achieved by non-flammable floor coverings which do not pre-sent any risk in terms of smoke formation

A2 fl Only achieved by non-flammable floor coverings with low levels of organic binding agents

B fl Radiation intensity = 8 kW/m

2

= flame-retardant construction products

C fl

Comparable with German B1 classification Radiation intensity of 4.5 kW/m

2 = flame-retardant construction

products

D fl Radiation intensity here only 3 kW/m

2

= normally flammable construction products

E fl

Small burner" test = normally flammable construction products

F fl No requirements made, no test = easily flammable construction products

2 Construction products Construction products include materials in the form of sheets and tiles, i.e. also floor coverings. It is thus not correct to associate floor coverings with fire resistance classifications.

2.1 Non-flammable construction products

Construction products and construction product groups classified as A1fl and A2fl according to EN 13501-1 do not contribute to fire at all. These re-quirements are so stringent that they cannot be satisfied by organic floor coverings (PVC, linoleum or rubber floor coverings, textile floor coverings made of natural or synthetic fibres).

2.2 Flammable construction products

Flammable construction products according to EN 13501-1 are divided into the fire classes Bfl –s1 and Cfl –s1. As regards the test conditions, the fire class Cfl–s1 more or less corresponds to the previous national building materials fire classes for "fire-retardant" floor coverings. For normally flammable floor cov-erings the fire classes Afl-s2, Bfl-s2, Cfl-s2, Dfl and Efl apply, and for easily flammable floor coverings Ffl.


3

Testing and classification

3.1 Classes Bfl and Cfl = flame-retardant

Floor coverings are deemed to be fire-retardant if they satisfy the requirements of the radiant-panel test for fire classes Bfl and Cfl. The radiant-panel test according to EN ISO 9239-1 basically con-sists of a gas-fired radiant heat source and sev-eral points of ignition. The sample is placed hori-zontally on a fibre-cement board under the radiant heat source positioned at an angle of 30° to the sample. This results in a radiation energy that acts on the sample, decreasing over its length. Floor coverings can be tested loose laid. For the floor coverings tested in this manner this is also verifi-cation of fully or partial glued using any standard adhesive. If only fully adhered throughout installa-tion is used for a floor covering in practice, it can be glued for testing as well. The adhesive used Radiant Panel Test:

should then be specified for actual practice on fit-ting. The test establishes at what level radiation energy in kW/m

2 the flames extinguish. 4.5 kW/m

2

is the minimum value for the fire classes Bfl-s1 and Cfl-s1. In addition, testing must be carried out according to EN ISO 11925-2. The value deter-mined for vertical flame spread must not exceed Fs< 150 mm within 20 seconds. If adhesives are used during testing, they must also be listed in the test report and resulting certification and should always be employed in practical use / installation. For floor coverings classified as A2fl, Bfl, Cfl and Dfl an additional test and classification is required for smoke density and smoke formation. Here the re-duction in light transmission in the exit flue is measured and mapped in a diagram as a function of time. The diagram is then used to determine the result. A value of < 750% x min corresponds to the class s1 – little smoke formation with fire. Floor coverings which do not satisfy the criteria of class s1 are classified as s2.

3.2

Classes Bfl, Cfl, Dfl

– normally flammable

Testing is carried out using the so-called small burner method, according to EN ISO 11925-2: In a combustion chamber a vertically positioned sample is exposed to a defined flame of a burner positioned at an angle of 45°. With edge flaming flame impingement is carried out on the lower edge of the sample, and with surface flame im-pingement the samples are exposed to the flame 40 mm above the lower edge. The flame im-pingement time is 15 seconds in each case. The requirements on construction products of the fire classes Dfl and Efl - normally flammable are

deemed to have been satisfied if the tip of the flame does not reach a reference mark made 150 mm above the flame impingement point in less than 20 seconds in any of the 5 samples. If this requirement is not satisfied, the construction product is classified in fire class Ffl - easily flam-mable. In addition, it is noted whether burning ma-terial drips from the samples during the test. A material is deemed to drip while burning if dripping material causes an easily flammable piece of pa-per lying under the sample to catch fire within 20 seconds. Note: The classification Bfl and Cfl for floor cover-ings which are tested in terms of flammability ac-cording to EN ISO 9239-1 and EN ISO 11925-2 does not apply with installation as a wall covering.


4 Fire certification For all construction products classified in the fire classes Bfl –s1and Cfl-s1 it is necessary to apply for a so-called general test certificate from an offi-cial materials testing laboratory and conclude a supervision agreement. This entitles the institute responsible for supervision to take a sample of the relevant quality from production at least once a year and perform testing. At the same time the manufacturer must carry out routine self-checks verifying normal flammability. The results of the self-checks have to be submitted to the institute responsible for supervision. Resilient and textile Armstrong DLW floor cover-ings are classified in the fire classes Bf –s1 and Cf –s1 if they are fully adhered throughout to a floor made of mineral material. Fire test certificates for our floor coverings are available on request from the Technical Service department of Armstrong DLW on Tel: +49 7142-71 658.

Armstrong DLW AG • Technical Information • Product Technology No. 2.1 • Issue 04 / 2009 page 1


Product Technology No. 2.1, Issue 04 / 2009


Electrostatic Behaviour of floor coverings

General All materials consist of a great number of atoms. Atoms themselves consist of an atomic nucleus with positively charged and neutral particles and a shell made up of negative electrons. Depending on the material, atoms can bind their electrons with varying degrees of strength. If two different materials are brought into close mechanical contact with each other, the atoms with a greater electron affinity can adhere to a material with a lower electron binding strength at the periphery. If these materials are then separated, not all electrons are able to return to their original position. The material deprived of electrons is positively charged, and the material with additional electrons negatively charged. Shoe soles and clothing become charged, with this charge being transmitted to the wearer. The static electrical charge depends on the type of materials coming into contact with each other and the humidity as well. With dry air / low humid-ity conditions materials and thus also people are more liable to become electrostatically charged than with high humidity levels. Electronic components are especially susceptible and may cause switching errors or even become irreparably damaged by minor electrostatic dis-charges that are not even noticed by people. Electrostatic charging can be reduced through the selection of suitable materials and by increasing humidity levels where too low, although it cannot be completely prevented.

1 Terms and definitions

1.1 Antistatic

Floor coverings are antistatic if they do not generally allow unpleasant electrostatic charges to occur.

• Resilient and textile floor coverings are anti-static according to EN 14041 if they result in a

static electrical charge of ≤ 2.0 kV for body voltage in the walking test.

• Resilient floor coverings are antistatic if they are conductive according to section 1.2.

• Textile floor coverings are also antistatic if the

charge is ≤ 2.7 kV using a test device accord-ing to section 4.2.3.

Antistatic Armstrong DLW floor coverings are indi-cated by the following pictogram:

1.2 Static dissipative / Conductive Floor coverings are static dissipative / conductive according to EN 14041 if their electrical resistance

to ground is ≤ 109 / ≤ 10

6 Ω. However, other resis-

tance values may also be specified.

Static dissipative / conductive Armstrong DLW floor coverings are indicated by the following pic-togram:

static dissipative conductive

1.3 Insulating

A floor is insulating according to German VDE 0100-410 (offers shock protection from mains voltage) when the insulation resistance RST attains the following values:

50 kΩ = 5 x 104 Ω for installations with rated

voltages under 500 V

100 kΩ = 1 x 105 Ω for installations with rated

voltages up to 1000 V


Note: Due to the variation in test conditions only an ap-proximate insulation resistance can be calculated from the electrical resistance according to EN 1081. It is however known that conductive floor coverings with a resistance to ground of <

106 Ω cannot attain the VDE limit values. Moisture

in the floor system may also reduce the insulation resistance for all types of flooring.

1.4 Electrical resistance

The term electrical resistance is used when refer-ring to the electrical voltage required to allow a specific current to pass along a conductor. The electrical resistance of a material describes its ca-pability to impede the flow of current.

1.4.1 Vertical resistance

The electrical resistance of a floor covering when unlaid, measured between the upper surface and the lower face opposite it. This vertical resistance characteristic is used to evaluate the capability of a floor covering to quickly discharge any electro-static charge from its wear layer / usable surface underneath the covering.

1.4.2 Resistance to ground

The electrical resistance of a floor covering when laid, measured between the upper surface of the covering material and the ground. Like vertical re-sistance, this characteristic indicates the capability of a floor covering to quickly discharge any elec-trostatic charge from the wear layer to the ground.

1.4.3 Horizontal resistance

The electrical resistance of a floor covering when laid, measured on the surface of the covering between two electrodes. This characteristic is used to identify the transverse conductivity within the sheet of flooring, i.e. its capability to discharge electrostatic charges horizontally in the floor cov-ering.

1.4.4 System resistance

The electrical resistance measured for the overall system "footwear-floor covering" in combination with a person. This characteristic is used to eva-luate the conductivity of the overall system ("per-son-footwear-floor covering") for the protection of electronic components from any person-specific discharges that may occur.

1.4.5 Electrical insulation to ground

The electrical insulation to ground must be meas-ured to evaluate the electrical insulating ability of the floor covering. One special requirement on the floor covering involves the so-called double stipu-lation - i.e. electrostatic insulating ability (electrical insulation to ground) in conjunction with simulta-neous conductivity. These properties must be of-fered by a floor covering if it is to protect people who work with components at risk from electro-static hazards while exposed to unprotected mains voltage.

2 Electrostatic Charging Charging not only occurs in users while walking but also by rubbing their clothing against furniture, in particular when sitting down and standing up again, and also by rubbing up against other furni-ture surfaces (friction partner). Such "secondary charging" cannot be dissipated by insulating footwear even when the floor cover-ing is conductive. Such unpleasant electrostatic charging is thus not just due to the floor covering. Acting as a "walking charge carrier", humans spontaneously release their charge as soon as they touch a conductive object. With low voltages this is imperceptible but at higher voltages this is accompanied by unpleasant spark discharges. A value of 3 kV is generally considered to be the level at which this becomes perceptible. Such voltages may reach 15 kV although they are not thought to be harmful to health according to cur-rent scientific knowledge. Unpleasant discharges often occur when people work in a sedentary position. Here it can be seen that the low voltages measured when people rub their feet on the floor covering then increase two to five times this value as soon as they place their feet on the footrest of their chair or other insulat-ing foot support. This rise in voltage may result in spark discharges. This is due to the reduction in capacity (see section 2.1.3). Such phenomena do not occur if office chairs and footrests are conduc-tive.

2.1

Dependencies

2.1.1 Friction partners

The material making up the friction partner


has a major influence on the level of electro-static charging. Plastic and dry leather soles for example against polyamide or wool result in high levels of charging, and some rubber soles to low levels. With polypropylene and polyacrylics only low levels of charging are generally observed.

2.1.2 Humidity

As the relative humidity of the air decreases, there is an increase in the tendency of insulat-ing materials towards electrostatic charging. High levels of charging thus mainly occur in rooms without air-conditioning when heated. Overheated offices or similar workplaces with-out any source of humidity are unpleasant for staff alone in terms of health. A humidity level of at least 40% is advantageous in every re-spect.

2.1.3 Insulating subfloor

The type of subfloor is a decisive factor for electrostatic charging experienced by users. High levels of such charging are observed with highly insulating subfloors (e.g. mastic asphalt, wooden floors, old floor coverings and underlay for wall-to-wall carpeting) or in-sulating subfloors (e.g. anhydrite screed) and underfloor heating than for subfloors with lower insulation levels (e.g. cement screed). Insulating subfloors slow down dissipation of the charge, and the thicker the insulating sub-floor, the lower the capacity of the system will be, i.e. its capability to carry a charge. The lower this capacity, the higher the voltage will be with an identical electrostatic charge.

3 Requirements

3.1 Standard workplaces, offices, PC workstations

There are no safety requirements in terms of electrostatic properties for these rooms. The use of antistatic floor coverings is thus suffi-cient.

3.2 Computer centres and control rooms

Electrostatic discharges may cause malfunctions in mainframe computers, control centres and other electronic equipment. The level of the elec-

trostatic charge at which such malfunctions occurs depends on the design of the equipment and shielding of the equipment / signal lines. In the above-mentioned work areas a floor con-struction with a

• resistance to ground of < 1 x 108 Ω is speci-

fied to protect sensitive equipment. We however recommend clarifying the spe-cific electrostatic requirements on the floor covering by consulting the manufacturer of the systems/equipment.

3.3 ESDS areas (Electrostatic sensitive devices)

EN 61340-5-1 is binding for areas in which components at risk from electrostatic dis-charge require protection. For this area a floor construction with a

• resistance to ground of < 1 x 109 Ω is speci-

fied to protect sensitive components.

The test electrode is described in Annex A of EN 61340-4-1.

If primary earthing is to be ensured for personnel via the floor construction, values for system resis-tance according to IEC 61340-5-1 of

• < 3.5 x 107 Ω or alternative

• < 1 x 109

Ω and voltage of less than 100 V are recommended. The measuring procedure for both requirements is described in DIN EN 61340-4-5.

Warning: EN 61340-5-1 makes no requirements in terms of personal shock protection against main voltage.

If there is a risk of touching main voltage at work-places, e.g. in test-areas, section 6.3.3 of VDE 0100-410 specifies an insulating floor covering in order to protect personnel. The requirements insulating according to VDE 0100 and conductive are at variance with each other. If these two requirements are made simul-taneously, we speak of a double requirement.

3.4 Rooms for medical applications

In the case of rooms used for medical applications a German regulation, BGR 132, lists the binding requirements for floor coverings to avoid risks of


ignition due to electrostatic charging. In areas at risk from explosion

• resistance to ground of < 108 Ω is specified.

The method for testing resistance to ground is ei-ther EN 1081 or EN 61340-4-1. The resistance must not be increased by cleaning products for floor coverings.

In rooms used for HF surgery a minimum resis-

tance of > 5 x 104 Ω is also specified.

3.5 Rooms with explosive materials

Spark discharges must be avoided in all cases in areas which are at risk from explosive materials (e.g. flammable liquids, explosives etc.). Section 3.6.3 of the German rule BGR 132 specifies a

• resistance to ground of < 106 Ω in these ar-

eas.

4 Test method

4.1. Resistance measurements

Unit of measurement = ΩΩΩΩ (ohm) Most tests are carried out in a specified test envi-ronment that is not however uniform for the indi-vidual standards. The ambient temperature and relative humidity have to be recorded for meas-urements in practical situations.

4.1.1 Vertical resistance of textile floor coverings (ISO 10965)

The test measures the resistance of a textile floor

covering with a 5 kg cylinder electrode ∅ 63mm.

test voltage 100 V with resistances < 108 Ω,

test voltage 500 V with resistances > 108 Ω

4.1.2 Vertical resistance of resilient floor coverings (EN 1081)

The test measures the resistance using a tripod electrode with a total electrode contact area of 25.5 cm². The underside of the electrodes is made of conductive rubber.

test voltage 100 V with resistances < 10

6 Ω,

test voltage 500 V with resistances > 106 Ω

4.1.3 Vertical resistance to earth of floor coverings in ESDS areas (EN 61340-4-1)

The test measures the resistance of a resilient

floor covering with a 2.5 kg cylinder electrode ∅ 63 mm. The underside of the electrodes is made of conductive rubber.

Test voltage 10 V with resistances < 105 Ω and

Test voltage 100 V with resistances > 105 Ω.

4.1.4 System resistance of floor coverings in ESDS areas (EN 61340-4-5)

The test measures the resistance between the test person holding an electrode while standing on the floor covering and the earth potential. The test person must wear (conductive) ESD footwear.

Test voltage 100 V.

4.1.5 Electrical insulation to ground (VDE 0100-610)

The test measures the resistance with a plate electrode between the surface of an installed resilient floor covering and the earth potential. This involves measuring the voltage type and level occurring during usage.

Test electrode 1 for DC systems This electrode corresponds to the so-called tripod electrode according to EN 1081. Before measurement is carried out, the surface to be tested must be moistened or covered with a damp cloth. During measurement the electrode is subjected to a load of approx. 75 kg.

Test electrode 2 for DC systems and AC voltage Electrode area: 625 cm² (footprint of ~2 shoes). A metal electrode measuring 25 x 25 cm is affixed to an insulating wooden board. A damp cloth measuring 27 x 27 cm is laid between the electrode and the floor covering. The electrode is then subjected to a load of approx. 75 kg. Test voltage 500 V.


4.2 Static electrical charge meas-urements Unit kV (kilovolt)

4.2.1

Walking test

Testing is carried out in a climatic chamber at 23° C and a relative humidity of 25%. The test measures the voltage U in volt of a test person walking over a textile or resilient floor cov-ering with the footwear specified in each case:

• resilient floor coverings according to EN 1815 with material of sole made of rubber and PVC

• textile floor coverings according to ISO 6356 with material of sole made of Neolite.

The voltage between the floor covering and the material of the sole defines the level of electro-static charging according to the standard.

4.2.2 Measurement of charging abil-ity in ESDS areas (EN 61340-4-5)

The test measures the voltage in volt of a test person walking over a floor covering with the specified ESD footwear. The conductivity of the footwear must be tested beforehand.

4.2.3 Testing with a test device (DIN 54345-3)

The method using a test device only applies to textile floor coverings. The walking test is simu-lated here with a test device. The device can how-ever only be used in a laboratory.

5 Installation

5.1 Installation in areas without special requirements

If there are no special requirements according to sections 3.2 to 3.5, standard installation is possi-ble for all antistatic resilient and textile Armstrong DLW floor coverings, i.e. stretch-laid or adhered with suitable adhesives.

In the case of insulating subfloors such as mastic asphalt or with underfloor heating (see section 2.1.3), we recommend even for antistatic floor

coverings using conductive adhesive. This can-cels out the capacity-reducing effect of the sub-floor.

5.2 Conductive installation

Where compliance with values for resistance to ground is specified in areas according to sections 3.2 to 3.5, this requirement can be satisfied by means of conductive installation: This type of installation involves installing the con-ductive floor covering with conductive adhesive on a conducting system, which needs to be properly earthed. A suitable conductor made of copper (Cu) or equivalent material (cross-section > 4 mm²) must be provided for connection to the earthing system in the building. The conducting system of the floor covering must not be directly earthed or con-nected to the lightning protective system. Connec-tion to the earthing system should be performed by an electrician, who must comply with the rele-vant regulations. It is advisable to agree the points of connection for earthing with an electrician in advance.


The following conducting systems are possible:

• On copper tape / grids of copper tape A continuous copper tape is laid under each row of tiles/sheet of floor covering. The copper tapes are then connected crosswise with two tapes, one at the beginning and one at the end of the sheet (grid of copper tape). Con-nection options for the earthing system should be provided at two points in the room, or in larger rooms (over 40 m²) at several points.

• On a conductive primer / copper tape strip A conductive primer is applied to the subfloor according to the manufacturer's instructions for use. At the connection points for the earthing system strips of copper tape should be arranged so that they are bonded to the floor in lengths of approx. 0.5 m. The connec-tion points should be positioned so that the maximum distance from an earthing point does not exceed 10 m.

5.3 Conductive installation with double requirement

If conductive floor coverings are specified together with standing surface insulation according to VDE 0100-410, the copper tape grid and conductive precoating are omitted with ESD / LG1 floor cov-erings. Here a semiconductive adhesive must be used. With the double requirement the adhesive is earthed with strips of copper tape.

In case of further queries contact the Product-Information of Armstrong DLW AG, Tel. +49 71 42 / 71 845, who will be pleased to provide detailed advice.

6 Floor coverings equipment


6.1.1 Addition of carbon Conductive carbon (graphite, industrial carbon black) is added to the primary or secondary col-our. The conductive constituents are distributed to ensure a permanent conductive effect in each case. Conductive floor coverings with added carbon are indicated in the Armstrong DLW range by "ESD / LG1" or "conductive / LG2".

6.1.2 Chemical equipment The inclusion of chemical antistatic agents in the binder allows conductive resilient floor coverings to be manufactured without using black in the pat-tern. The antistatic agent is evenly distributed throughout the floor covering. This means that the resistance values have an especially limited varia-tion range. Conductive floor coverings with chemical finishes are indicated in the Armstrong DLW range by "LCH".

6.2 Textile floor coverings

6.2.1 Addition of conductive textile fibres

High-quality textile floor coverings with excellent antistatic properties are manufactured by adding conductive textile fibres. The conductive fibres are distributed so that they are always in contact with users' feet when they walk on the floor covering. The use characteristics of the wear layer are not affected by this equipment.

Armstrong DLW AG • Technical Information • Product Technology No. 2.2 • Issue 09 / 2007 Page 1




Testing and Classification of Resilient Armstrong DLW Commercial floor coverings

1 Requirements of standards on resilient floor coverings

EN 14041, the European standard relevant to the CE mark for floor coverings, has been adopted and is now legally binding. To apply the CE mark to floor coverings it is necessary to satisfy the requirements of this standard. The obligation to use the CE mark on floor coverings is automatically being transposed into na-tional law in the member states of the European Union and the CEN member states (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland). In Germany this is the Construction Products Directive / Construction Products Act.

This means that from January 2007 all floor coverings sold in the European Union and the CEN member states must bear the CE mark. This is however conditional on such floor coverings satisfying the essential requirements of EN 14041 (see item 5 "Safety-relevant characteristics"… of this document) and the requirements of the individual product standards, as listed in the following table.

Armstrong DLW AG has adopted further internal restrictions in addition to the existing requirements of the standards for award of the CE mark for floor coverings to ensure that our company in fact only markets floor coverings that are environmentally friendly and safe to health.

General requirements and tolerances

EN 649 EN 651 EN 13845 EN 548 EN 687

(homogeneous + heterogeneous

PVC floor coverings)

(PVC floor coverings

with foam layer)

(PVC floor cover-ings with particle-based enhanced slip resistance)

(Plain and decorative linoleum)

(Linoleum with a corkment

backing)

EN 654 (Polyvinyl

Flex tiles)

Sheet flooring: ≤ nominal measurements

Sheet flooring:

≤ nominal measurements

Sheet flooring:


Sheet flooring:

≤ nominal measure-ments

Sheet flooring:


1.1 Width/dimensions, per-missible deviation from nominal measurements (EN 426, EN 427)

Tiles:

≤ 0.13%, max. 0.5 mm

Tiles:

≤ 0.13%, max. 0.5 mm

Tiles:

≤ 0.13%, max. 0.5 mm

Tiles:

≤ 0.15%, max. 0.5 mm

Tiles:

≤ 0.13%, max. 0.5 mm

Tile squareness (EN 427)

Side length ≤ 400 mm ≤ 0.25 mm ≤ 0.25 mm ≤ 0.25 mm ≤ 0.25 mm -

Side length > 400 mm ≤ 0.35 mm ≤ 0.35 mm ≤ 0.35 mm ≤ 0.35 mm

1.2

Side length > 400 mm for welding

≤ 0.5 mm ≤ 0.5 mm ≤ 0.5 mm

≤ 0.25 mm

≤ 0.35 mm

≥ 4.0 mm

- 0.10 / + 0.13 mm (average) and

- 0.15 / + 0.18 mm (average) and

- 0.10 / + 0.13 mm (average) and

± 0.15 mm (average) and

± 0.20 mm (average) and

1.3

Total thickness Permissible deviation from nominal thickness (EN 428)

± 0.15 mm (single value)





- 0.10 / + 0.13 mm (average) and ± 0.15 mm (single value)


EN 649 EN 651 EN 13845 EN 548 EN 687 EN 654 (homogeneous +

heterogeneous PVC

floor coverings)

(PVC floor coverings

with foam layer)

(PVC floor cover-ings with particle-based enhanced slip resistance)

(Plain and decorative linoleum)

(Linoleum on a corkment backing)

(Polyvinyl Flex tiles)

Wear layer: Wear layer: Total thickness

- 10 / + 13% max. 0.1 mm (average)

- 10 / + 13% max. 0.1 mm (average)

- 10 / + 13% (nominal value)

- ± 0.15 mm (average)

max. 0.05 mm or 15% below average (single value)

max. 0.05 mm or 15% below average (single value)

± 0.15 mm (average)


-

1.4 Thickness of layers (EN 429)

Foam layer: nominal thickness

Fibrous backing

≤ 0.80 mm

1.5 Total mass (EN 430) - 10% / + 13% - 10% / + 13% - 10% / + 13% ± 10% ± 10% - 10% / + 13%

1.6 Residual indentation after continuous loading (EN 433)

≤ 0.1 mm (average)

Class 21-23 + 31

≤ 0.35 mm

Class 32-34 + 41-42

≤ 0.20 mm


Thickness

≤ 3.2 mm ≤ 0.15 mm Thickness

≥ 4.0 mm ≤ 0.20 mm



Dimensional stability after exposure to heat (EN 434)

Through humidity (EN 669)

Sheet flooring and tiles for welding

≤ 0.4 %

≤ 0.4 %

≤ 0.4 %

-

1.7

Tiles, dry joining ≤ 0.25% ≤ 0.25% ≤ 0.25% < 0.1% -

-

≤ 0,25%

Curling after exposure to heat (EN 434)

Sheet flooring and tiles for welding

≤ 8 mm

≤ 8 mm

-

-

-

1.8

Tiles, dry joining ≤ 2 mm ≤ 2 mm ≤ 2 mm

With effect of moisture: (EN 662)

-

≤ 0.75 mm

Flexibility (EN 435) Method A Method A Method A

Mandrel dia. 15 mm -

Mandrel dia. 20 mm No cracking, oth-erwise 40

No cracking No cracking with nominal thickness:

Mandrel dia. 30 mm 2.0 mm

Mandrel dia. 40 mm No cracking 2.5 mm

Mandrel dia. 50 mm 3.2 mm

1.9

Mandrel dia. 60 mm 4.0 mm No cracking

Method B

No cracking

1.10 Seam strength (EN 684)

Class 31-34 + 41-43

Average > 180 N/50mm Single values > 180 N/50mm

Class 32-34 + 41-42

Average > 180 N/50mm Single values > 180 N/50mm

Class 31-34 + 41-43

Average > 180 N/50mm Single values

> 180 N/50mm

- - -

1.11 Colour fastness (ISO105-B02)

Rating ≥ 6 Rating ≥ 6 Rating ≥ 6 Rating ≥ 6 Rating ≥ 6 Rating ≥ 6

1.12 Chair castors (EN 425)

Only minor changes in surface, no delamination



- No damage should be visi-ble


1.13 PVC floor coverings for use in special wet areas (EN 13553)

Identity code W1 or W2 See ex-planation 1.13

Identity code W3 See explanation 1.13

- - - -

1.14 Simulated movement of a furniture leg

(EN 424)

- No damage - - - -

1.15 Slip resistance (degree) (EN 13845)

- - Class ESf > 20°

Class ESb > 15°

- - -


Re 1.1 Width / Dimensions The width / dimensions for sheet floorings are merely data for supply. In the case of tiles how-ever tolerances also apply to the floor covering fitted ready for use and thus additionally to carpet fitting using specific grid dimensions.

Re 1.2 Tile squareness This is necessary if tiles are to be laid using grid dimensions.

Re 1.3 Total thickness Thickness is first and foremost a constructional feature and is required if the technical specifica-tions are to be clear and unambiguous.

Re 1.4 Thickness of layers

These are likewise merely constructional features.

Re 1.5 Total mass (Total mass per unit area)

The total mass per unit area is not a quality fea-ture. However, with homogeneous PVC floor cov-erings the total mass per unit area allows conclu-sions to be drawn regarding the composition. The higher the total mass per unit area with the same thickness, the higher the content of fillers will gen-erally be.

Re 1.6 Residual indentation

Indentation under load and recovery after removal of the load are basic characteristics of all resilient floor coverings. Testing according to EN 433 is carried out to evaluate this property, resilience. The relevant standard applicable to floor cover-ings lays down minimum requirements for residual indentation. With Armstrong DLW floor coverings we ensure that we not only observe but also keep below these requirements by subjecting the fin-ished product to stringent testing. Static loading: In practice, when loading is imposed by furniture, shelving or similar items a contact pressure per unit area of max. 250 N/cm² (approx. 25 kg/cm²) should be observed (1 Newton [N] corresponds to approx. 100 g).

Dynamic loading: When loads are imposed e.g. by lifting trucks, the contact pressure per unit area is calculated ac-cording to the Hertz formula. The following data are required to make the calculation

• total weight (including max. payload)

• number of wheels

• wheel dimensions (diameter and width)

• material used for tyres (Shore hardness). No generally applicable limit value can be given. Experience has however shown that Armstrong DLW Linodur, Armstrong Flex tiles 3.2 mm and our homogeneous PVC floor coverings will withstand pressures of up to 300 N/cm² (approx. 30 kg/cm²). Here the floor needs to be sufficiently resistant to indentation, subject to its pre-treatment and appropriate bonding of floor coverings. In the case of floor coverings with PVC as a binding agent, abrupt braking of motor-driven industrial trucks may cause burns. When providing for such loads, we recommend always consulting the Product Information department of Armstrong DLW.

Re 1.7 Dimensional stability and

Re 1.8 Curling The dimensional stability (change in dimensions) and curling (curling-up of edges) are determined by exposing the un-bonded floor covering to heat (80° C, 6 hours). The limit values specified refer to a measured length of 200 mm and have been de-termined so that in practice no visible shrinkage or curling will occur in the fitted floor covering on ex-posure to heat, e.g. solar radiation.

Re 1.9 Flexibility Flexibility is a measure for the resilience of the un-bonded floor covering.

Re 1.10 Seam strength The floor covering is welded according to the manufacturer's instructions and then tested in terms of seam strength in N/50mm according to EN 684.


Re 1.11

Colour fastness

It is possible to compare various floor coverings or types of flooring in terms of visual changes caused by light using the rating for colour fast-ness. A special feature here is the appearance of a yel-lowing with linoleum: As linoleum matures, a natural veiling is produced, manifesting itself as yellow discolouration/yellowing of the linoleum. This will recede after a short period if the product is exposed to direct sunlight although it may take several days or weeks with artificial or weak sunlight. Colour fastness is not impaired by this natural yel-lowing!

Re 1.12 Castor chair suitability According to EN 12529 castors of the type W (soft) should be used for office chairs on resilient floor coverings and castors of the type H (hard) on textile floor coverings.

Re 1.13 Suitability for wet areas The following properties have to be satisfied if a homogeneous / heterogeneous PVC floor cover-ing according to EN 649 and a PVC floor covering with a foam layer according to EN 651 is to be suitable for use in special wet areas. Floor coverings according to EN 649: Identity code W1 Floor class A – normal intensity of use Total thickness according to EN 428 min. 1.5 mm Seam strength according to EN 684 min. 250 N/50mm Flexibility according to EN 435: no cracks with a mandrel 10 mm in diameter. The welded product can be classified as water-proof. Identity code W2 Floor class B – increased intensity of use Total thickness according to EN 428 min. 2.0 mm Seam strength according to EN 684 min. 400 N/50mm Flexibility according to EN 435: no cracks with a mandrel 10 mm in diameter. The welded product can be classified as water-proof. Floor coverings according to EN 651:

Identity code W3 Floor class A – normal intensity of use Thickness of compact layer according to EN 429 min. 1.0 mm Spreading of water according to EN 661 min. 7 days Seam strength according to EN 684 min. 250 N/50mm Flexibility according to EN 435: no cracks with a mandrel 10 mm in diameter. The welded product can be classified as water-proof.

Re 1.14 Furniture leg simulation According to EN 651 PVC floor coverings with a foam layer must be tested using a foot simulating the movement of a furniture leg for the following classes: Class 22-23 + 31 When using a type 3 foot according to EN 424, no damage to the surface should be visible. Class 32-34 + 42-43 When using a type 2 foot, no damage to the sur-face should be visible and when using a type 0 foot no damage should be visible at the seams.

Re 1.15 Slip resistance classification Testing is carried out according to the German standard DIN 51130 – Determination of antislip properties, Slopes. The floor covering and footwear / feet are mois-tened with water prior to testing. Floor coverings according to EN 13845 must achieve the following classification / angle in de-grees on slopes: Class with shoes ESf > 20° Class barefoot ESb > 15°


2 EN 685, Classification of resilient, textile and laminate floor coverings

EN 685 is the sole binding classification standard for floor coverings within the European Community. It su-persedes all other classifications since initial publication in December 1995. The classification standard pro-vides architects and developers throughout Europe with a basis for making objective comparisons between floor coverings. The classes and associated examples of usage now make it possible to compare floor cov-erings with different compositions. Class 22+ only applies to textile floor coverings. Other properties should be taken into account independently of the classification in terms of the intensity of use and described in the product specifications. EN 685 provides for the following classes of usage:

Symbol Class Usage Description Examples of usage

Domestic – Areas intended for private usage

21 moderate/ light

Areas with low or occasional usage Bedrooms

22 general/ medium

Areas with medium usage Living rooms, entrance halls

22+ general Areas with medium to heavy usage Living rooms, entrance halls, dining rooms and corridors

23 heavy Areas with high usage Living rooms, entrance halls, dining rooms and corridors

Commercial - Areas intended for public and commercial usage

31 moderate Areas with low or occasional usage Hotels, bedrooms, conference rooms, small offices

32 general Areas with medium traffic Classrooms, small offices, hotels, boutiques

33 heavy Areas with heavy traffic Corridors, department stores, lobbies, schools, large /open plan offices

34 very heavy Areas with intense usage Multipurpose halls, counter halls, department stores

Industrial – Areas intended for usage by light industry

41 moderate Areas where work is mainly sedentary with occasional usage of light vehicles.

Electronic assembly, precision / light engineering

42 general Areas in where work is mainly standing and/or with vehicle traffic.

Storage rooms, electronic assembly

43 heavy Other industrial areas Storage rooms, production halls


2.1

Classification of resilient floor coverings

2.1.1 EN 649, Classification of homogeneous and heterogeneous PVC floor coverings

The first step is to determine (Table 1) in which wear group the floor covering should be categorised.

Table 1

Wear group T P M F

Thickness loss mm EN 660-1 ≤ 0.08 ≤ 0.15 ≤ 0.30 ≤ 0.60

Volume loss mm³ EN 660-2 ≤ 2.0 ≤ 4.0 ≤ 7.5 ≤ 15.0

Floor coverings with transparent wear layer automatically belong to wear group T - without testing! The class for the application can be read off from the wear group and • for homogeneous floor coverings, from the floor covering thickness • for heterogeneous floor coverings, from the wear layer thickness and the floor covering thickness in Table 2.

Table 2

Classification requirements

Light Gen-eral

Heavy Light Gen-eral

Mod-erate

Heavy Gen-eral

Very heavy

Heavy

21 22 23 31 32 41 33 42 34 43

mm T 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

mm P 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

mm M 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

Total thickness (homogeneous/ heterogeneous)

EN 428

mm F 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.5 2.5

mm T 0.15 0.20 0.30 0.30 0.40 0.40 0.55 0.55 0.70 0.70

mm P 0.25 0.35 0.45 0.45 0.55 0.55 0.70 0.70 1.00 1.00

mm M 0.40 0.50 0.65 0.65 0.80 0.80 1.00 1.00 1.50 1.50

Wear layer thickness (heterogeneous)

EN 429

mm F 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.00 1.20 1.20 1.50 1.50 2.00 2.00

2.1.2 EN 651, Classification of polyvinyl floor coverings with a foam layer The class for the application can be read off with the wear group (Table 1) and then from the wear layer thickness in Table 3.

Table 3


Light Gen-eral


Mod-erate

Heavy Gen-eral

Very heavy

Heavy

21 22 23 31 32 41 33 42 34 43

mm T 0.15 0.20 0.25 0.25 0.35 0.35 0.50 0.50 0.65 -

mm P 0.20 0.30 0.40 0.40 0.50 0.50 0.65 0.65 1.00 -

Wear layer thickness EN 429

mm M 0.30 0.45 0.60 0.60 0.75 0.75 1.00 1.00 1.50 -

Simulated movement of a furniture leg

EN 424 - Foot type 3: No damage

Foot type 2: No damage Foot type 0: No damage to seam


2.1.3 EN 13845, Classification of PVC floor coverings with particle-based enhanced slip resistance

Table 4


Light Gen-eral


Mod-erate

Heavy Gen-eral

Very heavy

Heavy

21 22 23 31 32 41 33 42 34 43

Minimum total thick-ness

EN 428 mm 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

Wear resistance* EN 13845

Annex D

Cycles

20000

20000

20000

20000

30000

30000

40000

40000

50000

50000

*Testing should be carried out according to EN 660-2. The particles of the surface of the floor covering must not show a reduction of more than 10% after the number of test cycles.

2.1.4 EN 548, Classification of plain and decorative linoleum floor coverings Linoleum floor coverings are solely classified according to the floor covering thickness:

Table 5


Light Gen-eral


Mod-erate

Heavy Gen-eral

Very heavy

Heavy

21 22 23 31 32 41 33 42 34 43

Nominal thickness EN 429 mm 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0* 2.5* 2.5* 2.5* **

* When selecting the floor covering thickness in classes 33/34 and 41/42 the expected type and intensity of usage should be taken into account; this may possibly call for a thicker linoleum floor covering.

** The requirements on Class 43 floor coverings should always be agreed between the user, consultant, fitter and manufacturer.

2.1.5 EN 687, Classification of plain and decorative linoleum floor coverings with corkment backing

Table 6


Light Gen-eral


Mod-erate

Heavy Gen-eral

Very heavy

Heavy

21 22 23 31 32 41 33 42 34 43

Nominal thickness of linoleum layer

EN 429 mm 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.0 2.0 - - -

Linoleum floor coverings with a corkment underlayer are only classified using the wear layer thickness. Greater wear layer thicknesses suitable for heavy use have not been included. If necessary, a similar proce-dure as for linoleum floor coverings without corkment must be used for classes from 33 or 41.


2.1.6 EN 654, Classification of polyvinyl Flex tiles

Table 7


Light Gen-eral


Mod-erate

Heavy Gen-eral

Very heavy

Heavy

21 22 23 31 32 41 33 42 34 43

Total thickness (flat tiles)

EN 428 mm 1.6 1.6 2.0 - 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.2 -

Total thickness special products 1)

EN 428 mm 1.6 1.6 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.5 -

1) Special products must satisfy these require-ments: Armstrong DLW Flex tiles satisfy all requirements according to note 1); they are classified as special products according to Table 8.

Table 8

Thickness loss and mm EN 660-1 ≤ 0.4

Volume loss mm³ EN 660-2 ≤ 10

3 Additional properties

3.1 Optional properties

These properties should be tested and available when required for special applications:

Floor coverings according to EN 649, EN 651, EN 548, EN 687, EN 654, EN 13845 Table 9

Electrical resistance

EN 1081 The resistance between the upper and lower face of the unlaid floor covering is measured with a so-called Tripod-Electrode (vertical resistance R1).

A floor covering is conductive if the vertical resistance is max. 1 x

109 Ω.

For further details see Armstrong DLW Technical Information No. 2.1 "Electrostatic Behaviour of Floor coverings".

Antistatic EN 1815 During the walking test a static electrical charge of max. 2.0 kV is permitted for the body voltage. Floor coverings are also antistatic

when the vertical resistance R1 is ≤ 109

Ω.

The floor covering is exposed to defined liquids and paste-like substances for 2 hours, cleaned and then evaluated:

Index Test result after cleaning/scrubbing

0 Not affected

1 Very slightly affected

2 Slightly affected

3 Affected

Resistance to staining

EN 423

4 Severly affected

Floor coverings according to EN 649, EN 548, EN 654, EN 13845

Loaded heavy-duty castor test

EN 1818 The floor covering (with one or more sealed seams) is subjected to the simulated movement of a heavy-duty castor with a load of

1250 ± 10 N. The profile curves before and after 10,000 cycles are compared and evaluated, in addition to the type of damage occur-ring and the resistance to breaking from adhesion tests.


3.2

Optional properties, additional

Floor coverings according to EN 548, EN 687 Table 10

A test simulating the effect of a burning cigarette and a cigarette being stubbed out is performed on the floor covering. The follow-ing ratings are possible:

Level Effect on surface of sample:

5 No visible change

4 Slight change of gloss only visible at certain angles and/or slight brown stain

3 Moderate change of gloss and/or moderate brown stain

2 Severe brown mark but no destruction of surface

1 Blistering and/or destruction of surface

Resistance to burning cigarettes

EN 1399

Note: Method A (cigarette stubbed out): Level 4 or higher, Method B (burning cigarette): Level 3 or higher, fullfilled in general usage.

4 Additional test methods (for information only), not forming part of floor covering specification

The standards include other test methods which are neither relevant to either classification or otherwise for the evaluation of a floor covering. They only apply to floor coverings according to EN 649 and EN 13845, marked with (*) for floor coverings according to EN 651, and with (#) for floor coverings according to EN 654:

Table 11

Movement of a furniture leg

DIN EN 424 A foot which is used to simulate a furniture leg is dragged over the floor covering. The damage to the floor covering is ascertained.

Peel resistance EN 431 The level of force required to peel off layers of a resilient floor co-vering is determined.

Shear force EN 432 (*) A floor covering sample is glued between two plates which are then pulled apart. The shear force between or within the layers of a floor covering is determined.

Spreading of water

EN 661 (*) It is ascertained how long it takes water to spread horizontally over a section of 100 mm in the floor covering.

Curling EN 662 (*) See explanation for item 1.8.

Exudation of plasticisers

EN 665 (*), (#) Three pairs of samples are stored each with absorbent paper in-serted in-between at 80° C for 24 h. The marking of the paper is described in terms of type and colour.

Pattern depth EN 663 (*) The pattern depth can be determined by means of the change in appearance using three methods. The test result specifies the abrasion depth and assessment of the change in appearance with "barely visible", "visible" or "clearly visible, immediately obvious".

Loss of volatile matter

EN 664 (*), (#) Samples are stored at 100° C for 6 h. The average value of the loss of volatile matter is determined.

Gelling EN 666 (*), (#) The method is primarily intended for production control.

Determination of mass per unit area of a reinforcement or a backing of PVC floor

EN 718 The PVC content is dissolved with tetrahydrofuran and the mass of the remaining reinforcement or backing specified in g/m² using an average, maximum and minimum value.


coverings

5 Safety-relevant characteristics EN 14041 - CE mark

The standard EN 14041 relevant to the CE mark for floor coverings lists requirements for floor coverings in terms of the essential properties, see Table 12. They must be tested by the manufacturers of the floor coverings and confirmed by means of declarations of conformity.

Table 12

Flammability EN 13501-1 All our commercial floor coverings have the European classifica-tion Bfl–s1 and Cfl–s1 (flame-retardant). The classifications Bfl–s1 and Cfl–s1 according to EN 13501-1 correspond to the former German classification B1 (flame-retardant) according to the Ger-man standard DIN 4102.

Floor coverings which have not undergone testing are classified as Ffl. See also our Technical Information 1.3. "Flammability".

PCP content BS 5666-6 Not applicable to Armstrong DLW floor coverings as it is not used in the manufacture of our floor coverings.

Formaldehyde ENV 717 Not applicable to Armstrong DLW floor coverings as it is not used in the manufacture of our floor coverings.

Waterproofing

EN 13553-A

Resilient floor coverings intended for use in special wet areas must satisfy the requirements of EN 13553.

See also item 1.13.

Slip resistance EN 13893

Floor coverings intended for use in general application areas must have a dynamic coefficient of friction of µ > 0.3 on supply and are then declared as corresponding to the technical class DS.

Floor coverings for which no coefficient of friction has been deter-mined are declared as corresponding to the technical class NPD.

Enhanced slip resistance is specified for floor coverings according to EN 13845. They must be categorised as class ES. See also item 1.15.

Electrical resistance

EN 1081

If the floor covering is marked as being conductive / antistatic, it must achieve the following values.

Electrostatic dissipative floor coverings:

Vertical resistance max. 1 x 109 Ω

Electrostatic conductive floor coverings:

Vertical resistance max. 1 x 106 Ω

Static electrical charge

EN 1815

During the walking test a static electrical charge of max. 2.0 kV is permitted for the body voltage.

Thermal conductivity

EN 12524

Pictograph

If floor coverings are to be laid over underfloor heating systems, the typical values for thermal conductivity according to EN 12524 should be used for dimensioning calculations.

Pictographs

Pictograph

Pictographs

Pictographs

Pictograph


6 Other safety-relevant characteristics

The characteristics listed in Table 13 have been generally specified for many years in the invitations to ten-der for public and commercial areas although they are not included in the specifications of the European floor covering standards. These characteristics, which are intended in specific areas to protect human health and even life, are currently still governed by national standards.

Table 13

Slip resistance Work rooms and areas with a risk of slipping

German rule BGR 181

Slip resistance is tested on a slope according to the German standard DIN 51130

Classification is carried out using groups indicating the risk of slip-ping ranging from R 9 to max. R 13.

Resilient floor coverings normally attain ratings of R 9 or R 10.

Slip resistance Wet barefoot areas

German rule GUV 26.17

The German association “Säurefliesner-Vereinigung e.V.” in Burgwedel / Germany is responsible for testing and classification.

The classes A, B, and C are possible here. Besides this classifica-tion, the general suitability of the floor covering/type of flooring should also be taken into account.

Electrical insula-tion to ground RST

VDE 0100-410 Personnel may be exposed to supply voltage, for example in tes-ting areas for electrical or electronic equipment or at electrical re-pair workshops.

To protect personnel from contact with mains voltage the insula-tion to ground RST (insulation capability) of the floor covering must attain the following values:

• 50 kΩ for installations with mains voltages under 500 V

• 100 kΩ for installations with mains voltages up to 1000 V

(See also our Technical Information 2.1 "Electrostatics".)

7 Resistance to chemicals The resistance to chemicals offered by resilient Armstrong DLW floor coverings is tested accord-ing to EN 423 "Resistance to staining" (see sec-tion 3.1 of this Technical Information) with a main action time of 2 hours. In order to remain in line with actual practice, the type of chemicals to be used for testing is not specified.

Selection of a floor covering may depend on its reaction to different chemicals where certain types of usage are concerned. Here it is not normally sufficient to test the resistance to staining. In gen-eral terms the following applies to resilient floor coverings:

Table 14

Type of flooring Acids Alkalis Solvents Oxidants (H2O2)

Linoleum , briefly ∅

Linoleum PUR

PVC floor coverings

PVC floor coverings PUR

Polyvinyl Flex tiles

= resistant

∅ = not resistant


Armstrong DLW Linoleum is resistant to weak ac-ids with a short action time as well as to greases, mineral oils, solvent naphtha and alcohols. Lino-leum is not resistant to the action of alkalis. This reaction is specific to linoleum and thus ap-plies to all linoleum floor coverings. Thanks to its high-quality surface protection, Arm-strong DLW Linoleum PUR is highly resistant to all acids and alkalis, even at high concentrations. All Armstrong DLW PVC floor coverings, including the floor coverings with PUR Eco System rein-forcement, are highly resistant to acids and alka-lis, even at high concentrations. Major benefits for PVC floor coverings are apparent when compared with other types of flooring. A number of aqueous solutions and solvents, e. g. aliphatic hydrocarbons (petrol, solvent naphtha),

alcohols and mineral oils do not affect Linoleum PUR or PVC floor coverings while ketone-based solvents, e.g. acetone, esters e.g. ethyl acetate and aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons, cause swelling. For safety reasons it is necessary to immediately take up any spilt chemicals which might involve a risk of explosion or fire, be highly or easily flam-mable, toxic, harmful to health, caustic, irritant or carcinogenic or increase the risk of slipping. This also minimises the risk of damage to the floor co-vering. In specific cases it is recommended requesting information beforehand from the Product Informa-tion department of Armstrong DLW AG, specifying the chemicals used and their concentration.

8 Resistance to disinfectants All resilient Armstrong DLW floor coverings are resistant to the surface disinfectants included in the list of disinfectants issued by the German association VAH (Disinfectant Commission in the

Association for Applied Hygiene). See also the Technical Information 4.3 "Disinfection of Resilient Armstrong DLW floor coverings".




Armstrong Floor Products Armstrong DLW AG Product Information Stuttgarter Str. 75 D-74321 Bietigheim-Bissingen Tel.: 07142 - 71 658 Fax: 07142 - 71 650

Description, Testing and Classification of Fibrebonded Floor coverings according to EN 1470

1 Application The European standard DIN EN 1470 (issued September 2008) specifies the requirements for fibrebonded floor coverings in usage classes in relation to wear, changes in ap-pearance and a luxury rating. It applies to fi-brebonded sheet floorings and tiles. Classifi-cation into levels of use for fibrebonded floor coverings are now identical with that of resil-ient floor coverings according to EN 685.

2 Terms and definitions Based on ISO 2424, a distinction is made be-tween

2.1 loose tiles

2.2 fixed detachable tiles

2.3 adhesive tiles.

3 Categories of fibrebonded floor coverings

Type 1: a visible layer - single layer

Type 2: more than one visible layer whose binder does not reach the upper use surface (back coated).

Type 3: more than one layer whose binder is present throughout the entire thick-ness (fully impregnated).

3.1 Description of classifications and

levels of use Textile floor coverings are categorised into vari-ous classes of use: Domestic and Commercial. The levels of use are shown in Table 1. The symbols and examples of usage are listed in EN 685. See also Table 2. Table 1 Domestic Commercial

Class Level of use Class Level of use 21 moderate / light 22 general /

medium

22+ general 31 moderate 23 heavy 32 general 33 heavy* In the case of highly specific applications such as at airports, in theatres or industry, the technical re-quirements need to be agreed between the parties involved. * Class 33 should be taken as the basis here, with the necessity of agreeing additional requirements in order to establish an individual specification.


Table 2 Intensity of use

Domestic Commercial Examples of usage

Domestic: Bedrooms

Domestic: Living rooms, entrance halls


Commercial: Classrooms, individual offices, hotels, boutiques


Commercial: Corridors, doctors' surgeries, schools

Commercial: Department stores,

hospitals, large offices

4 Characteristic features Fibrebonded floor coverings are manufac-tured in a wide range of constructions with different use surfaces. To compare products a standardised description of the goods is thus required. This is governed by EN 1470. The relevant terms and definitions are ex-plained in DIN ISO 2424. 4.1 Fibre composition of use surface The fibre composition is determined accord-ing to the European directive 96/73 and 96/74. This is specified e.g. PA = polyamide PP = polypropylene PES = polyester 4.2 Width / Dimensions The length and width are determined accord-ing to ISO 3018.

The tolerance in terms of length and width is + 1% according to EN 14159. The width must not exceed the maximum deviation value of 3 cm. 4.3 Total thickness The thickness is measured according to ISO 1765 to an accuracy of 0.1 mm using a measuring pressure of 20 g/cm². It is only relevant in installation terms (connection to other floor coverings, profiles und door rab-bets). The tolerance from the nominal value is + 15%. In the case of products with a total thickness of < 3.5 mm this is max. + 0.5 mm.

4.4 Total mass per unit area The total mass per unit area is tested accord-ing to ISO 8543 and is the weight per square metre of the entire floor covering construc-tion. The total mass per unit area has no rele-vance to the behaviour in use. The required


weight is specified rounded off to 50 g. Tole-

rance: ± 15% of the nominal value.

4.5 Mass of use surface (Mass per unit area of use surface) In the case of multilayer fibrebonded floor coverings (type 2 and 3) the weight is deter-mined above the carrier according to EN 984. Here a band knife machine is used to shear off the use surface above the carrier until 50% of the carrier becomes visible. The shorn weight then determined. The required weight is specified rounded off to 10 g/m². The tolerance for fibrebonded floor coverings is + 15% of the nominal value. 5 Basic requirements

Fibrebonded floor coverings must satisfy the following basic requirements.

5.1 Dimensional stability

This is determined according to ISO 2551. The tolerance in every direction is < 0.5% in the case of stretching and < 1.2 % for shrink-age.

5.2 Assessment of impregnations The backing materials in fibrebonded floor coverings have to be assessed in terms of resistance to soiling according to EN 1269. Here standardised dirt is applied to the floor covering and tested using the drum or castor method according to EN 985 and then vac-uumed off. The result is assessed with the grey scale. The specification is level > 2/3. For fibrebonded floor coverings which are only categorised as class 21, level > 2 is ac-ceptable. 5.3 Fastness To assess changes in colour the grey scale according to EN 20105 is used. Grade 1 is awarded for a high level of colour transfer or change in colour and grade 5 where the change is imperceptible.

5.3.1 Colour fastness Fibrebonded floor coverings must attain a colour fastness rating of at least 5 according to ISO 105-B02. For pastel shades only the rating > 4 is required. Samples are exposed to a so-called Xenotest device, using artificial light from a xenon lamp that more or less corresponds to daylight. As there is no ultraviolet (UV) radiation in an en-closed room behind window glass, filters are also used in the test device to withhold this band of radiation of the light from the sample as far as possible. The samples are thus ex-posed to light under specific temperature and humidity conditions. A light fastness scale (blue wool scale) is also tested along with the samples. 5.3.2 Fastness to rubbing Every fibrebonded floor covering must attain the rubbing fastness grade > 3 - 4 (dry) and > 3 (wet) according to EN ISO 105-X12. Testing of rubbing fastness was originally de-velop to assess clothing textiles. According to the result of the test it is possible to state whether the floor covering will cause an un-acceptable level of staining when rubbed against other textiles. To test this, the sample is placed in a "Crockmeter" and rubbed lightly against white test fabrics. The procedure is carried out with wet and dry test fabrics. Grade 1 is awarded for a high level of colour transfer or change in colour and grade 5 where the change is imperceptible. 5.3.3 Fastness to water Every fibrebonded floor covering must attain at least the water fastness grade > 2 to 3 ac-cording to EN ISO 105-E01. In the case of multifibre products it is the poorest result that is graded. Fibrebonded floor coverings with unpatterned designs must attain a water fastness grade of > 3 - 4 and a water fastness grade of > 4 for other floor coverings.


To test water fastness samples of fibre-bonded floor coverings are soaked with wa-ter. White test fabric is then placed on the upper surface and subjected to pressure. The colour changes in the sample and the stain-ing of the fabric are then graded. When rating floor coverings for general applications (ex-cluding wetrooms) only the colour change in the upper surface of the sample is graded. No significant changes should be detectable here. To grade the level of staining the grey scale according to EN 20105, A03 is used, and to grade the change in colour, the grey scale according to EN 20105, A02. 5.4 Surface fuzzing (Pilling) Fibrebonded floor coverings must attain the grade > 2.5 according to EN 1963 – test D. Testing is performed to determine the fibre retention of fibrebonded floor coverings. The floor covering is rated after 100 and 200 dou-ble cycles according to the photo standards. 5.5 Static loading According to ISO 3415 fibrebonded floor cov-erings in classes 23, 32 and 33 must not ex-

ceed the value of 0.8 mm. Testing is used to determine the compressi-bility and recovery rate of textile floor cover-ings. Fibrebonded floor coverings are sub-jected to a contact pressure of 220 N using a die with a diameter of approx. 2.4 cm for 120 minutes. The die is then lifted and the total

thickness measured after 60 minutes. The dif-ference in thickness between the original sample and the sample once relieved of pressure indicates the recovery rate of the textile floor covering.

6 Classification into levels of use Fibrebonded floor coverings are categorised into different application levels according to their use characteristics. Classification depends on three main charac-teristics: wear, general resistance and changes in colour. These characteristics are used to describe the behaviour in use as a function of the intensity of use (classes 21 to 33 in ascending order of the intensity of use). The class categorised for the level of use is the lowest obtained by the fibrebonded floor covering during the tests involving wear, gen-eral resistance and changes in appearance. 6.1 Classification of wear resistance Fibrebonded floor coverings have to be tested in terms of the basic requirements for use surface and loss of total mass per unit area. The lowest class from both tests should be specified. 6.1.1 Basic requirements for use surface The basic requirements for each class are shown in Table 3 below.


Table 3 Number of different

visible layers One More than one

Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Class Measured total mass

g/m2 Measured use

surface mass g/m2 Measured use

surface mass g/m2 Test method ISO 8543 EN 984 EN 984

Domestic

21 __ __ __

22

> 500

> 130

> 150 22+ 23

> 700 > 180 > 200

Commercial 31

> 500 > 130 > 150

32

> 700 > 180 > 200

33

> 850 > 225 > 250

6.1.2 Mass loss (mv) (Total mass loss per unit area) Wear rating – Lisson test

The total mass loss per unit area is deter-mined using the Lisson pedal wheel. Fibrebonded floor coverings for classification into classes for the level of use must not ex-ceed the following total mass loss per unit area mv in g/m². The value is calculated ac-cording to EN 1963, test A. For class 22 the value mv must be < 80g/m², for classes 22+ and 31 < 50 g/m², for classes 23 and 32 < 40 g/m², and for class 33 < 30 g/m² 6.2 General resistance In the case of fibrebonded floor coverings the general resistance is determined with the chair castor method according to EN 985,

with test C of this standard using 10,000 revolutions for classes 21 to 22+ and 25,000 revolutions for classes 23 to 33. Here no damage should occur (such as delamination, cracks, bulging etc.). With fibrebonded tiles 4 tiles should be tested. During testing the occurrence and extent of any deterioration in the sample must be as-certained. 6.3 Changes in appearance Fibrebonded floor coverings are tested with the chair castor method according to EN 985, test A and C using the revolutions specified in the following table, followed by assessment. The discolouration is evaluated by comparing the contrast of the samples of floor covering tested and the original samples with the con-trast of the standard grey scale. The discol-ouration (brightening, lightening) is evaluated using ratings from 1-5 (with 5 being the low-est level of change). Precise graduations of 0.5 should be used here. With every class for the level of use the discolouration median must satisfy the requirements of the following table.


Table 4

Class EN 985 test B 750 revolutions

EN 985 test A 5,000 revolutions

EN 985 test A 25,000 revolutions

Domestic 21 __ __ __ 22 > 2.0 __ __

22+ > 2.5 > 2.0 __ 23 > 2.5 > 2.5 __

Commercial 31 > 2.5 > 2.0 __ 32 > 2.5 > 2.5 __ 33 > 3.0 > 2.5 > 2.0

7 Classification into luxury ratings Fibrebonded floor coverings are classified into the luxury rating LC 1.

8 Additional use characteristics Besides the basic requirements of item 6 which must be satisfied, fibrebonded floor coverings can also be characterised by the following additional properties. 8.1 Castor chair suitability Fibrebonded floor coverings are suitable for castor chairs if they achieve an R value of > 2.4 with continuous use and > 2.0 with occa-sional use during testing according to EN 985, test A. The prerequisite is usage with castors complying with EN 12529, type H (hard). A holder with three castors revolves excentri-cally on a rotating sample. The castors are subjected to a total load of 90 kg. Wear of the use surface does not occur during this test. The change in appearance is assessed in grades from 1 - 5 (with 5 being the lowest level of change). The assessment grades af-ter 5,000 and 25,000 revolutions are used to calculate the R value.

8.2 Electrostatic properties 8.2.1 Antistatic Fibrebonded floor coverings are antistatic if they achieve a value of < 2.0 kV in the walk-ing test according to ISO 6356. The static electrical charge is specified in kV (kilovolt). Testing is carried out in a climatic chamber at 23° C and a relative humidity of 25%. The test measures the static electrical charge of a test person while walking on the fibrebonded floor covering with the specified footwear. The static electrical charge is measure before and after the floor covering is cleaned. The higher value from both tests must be speci-fied. 8.2.2 Conductivity For fibrebonded floor coverings the vertical and/or horizontal resistance can be specified. They are tested according to ISO 10965 and the geometric mean specified in ohm.


8.3 Acoustic properties 8.3.1 Impact sound insulation Fibrebonded floor coverings are tested ac-cording to ISO 140-8 in terms of impact sound reduction. The value is calculated ac-cording to ISO 717-2, with the result ∆ Lw be-ing specified in dB (decibel). When testing the impact sound reduction, the floor covering is laid on the ground in a spe-cial testing room. A device that uses falling hammers to produce a sound similar to that of moving feet is placed on the sample of floor covering. This test can also be carried out in existing buildings or homes available. Here the relevant slab should be measured before and after the floor covering is laid. A microphone which is connected to the measuring instruments is set up in the test room under the slab to be tested. The techni-cian then measures the sound volume of the falling hammers with and without the floor covering in the test room. As the sound is made up of various high and low tones, it is "split" for measurement using a using a filter. This produces a curve which indicates the volume or sound level in dB (decibel) for the individual tone pitches. The sound reduction of a floor covering is determined by subtract-ing the sound level with and without the cov-ering and comparing the result with a stan-dard curve. This makes it possible to state to what extent a floor covering can reduce impact sound for a room located underneath. 8.3.2 Noise reduction While impact sound absorption refers to the reduction in noise from one room to another, the reduction in noise in a single room is known as noise reduction. This is determined according to ISO 354 and is specified as the

calculated value αs or the calculated average

αw. An echo effect often occurs in large empty rooms: when a sound is produced, is rever

berates for some time afterwards. This rever-beration time is measured in special echo

chambers. The noise reduction level αS can be calculated from the reverberation times with and without sound-absorbing material. This is a measure of how much sound energy is absorbed by the area of any material in comparison with an area that is 100% absor-bent. One square metre of a fibrebonded floor

covering with αS = 0.20 thus absorbs 20% of the sound energy that would escape for ex-ample through an open window of identical size (100%). 8.4 Thermal resistance The thermal resistance of floor coverings is measured according to ISO 8302, with the value calculated being specified in m²K/W. The sample to be measured is placed over a hotplate whose heating output can be pre-cisely controlled. A heating protection system encircling the hotplate is used to avoid any heat loss at the sides. Cooling plates, whose temperature is maintained at a constant level, are positioned at the outer sections of the sample. The thermal resistance is calculated from the flow of heat passing vertically through the samples, the temperature differ-ence between the hotplate and cooling plate and the geometrical dimensions of the area of the sample involved in measurement. The thermal resistance of textile floor cover-ings is not generally very important for heat insulation in buildings due to its relatively low values, 0.05 - 0.25 m² K/W. It is only when installing under floor heating that the thermal resistance of floor coverings needs to be taken into account in order to avoid a build-up of heat. 8.5 Suitability for underfloor heating A fibrebonded floor covering is suitable for underfloor heating if - the thermal resistance is < 0.17 m2 K/W according to item 8.4


- No ageing should occur under conditions of heat. 8.6 Suitability for wetrooms A fibrebonded floor covering is suitable for wetrooms if the dimensional stability of the floor covering as described in item 5.1 is tested according to ISO 2551 and the follow-ing limit values are not exceeded - extension < 0.4% in every direction - shrinkage < 0.8% in every direction. - it achieves at least the rubbing fastness grade 4 dry and wet according to item 5.3.2. - the fibres are rot-resistant (no natural or cellulose-based fibres). 8.7 Stair suitability Stair suitability is assessed according to EN 1963, test B (Lisson pedal wheel) and EN 1963, Annex A. The result can be specified as stair suitability either with occasional or continuous use. 9 GuT environmental label Armstrong DLW sets great store by protecting both the environment and consumers when it comes to the use of raw materials and manu-facture of its flooring qualities. The German organisation Deutsches Teppichfor-schungsinstitut (TFI) carries out regular checks and measurements to check comply with our obligation. DLW fibrebonded floor coverings are sub-jected to a rigorous three-stage test at regular intervals. This includes the following individ-ual elements:

- checking for harmful substances - checking for the emission of components causing - odours - odour testing. Such analyses ensure that consumers are not exposed to harmful substances such as pentachlorophenol, formaldehyde, pesticides harmful to health, butadiene etc. when using our fibrebonded floor coverings. Only when these stringent pollutant and emission tests have been passed are a label and approval number issued for manufacture and the fin-ished product, whereby this is solely available from the German institute, called Deutsches Teppich-Forschungsinstitut (TFI) in Aachen. The GuT-label is awarded for a limited period of time. Continued use of the approval num-ber and label are only permitted if no com-plaints/objections are submitted to the manu-facturers or the trade during the annual checks. At Armstrong DLW it is guaranteed that the latest findings from production engi-neering and ecology are implemented in terms of environmental protection. 10 Additional requirements for tiles Fibrebonded tiles must offer the properties listed under item 10.2, Table 5. 10.1 Definitions Loose tiles: Loose tiles are laid without using an adhesive system. Fixed detachable tiles: These tiles are laid on a nonslip system. They are thus fixed in place to prevent them from slipping yet can still be taken up again easily and relaid. Adhesive tiles: These tiles are permanently bonded to the ground with an adhesive system recom-mended by the manufacturer.


10.2 Additional requirements for tiles

Table 5

Adhered tiles Properties Test method Non adhered tiles loose laid Removable Permanent

Total mass per unit area/tile Total mass per unit area/m2

ISO 8543 ISO 8543

≥ 0.875 kg

≥ 3.5 kg/m²

≥ 0.625 kg

≥ 2.5 kg/m²

- -

Width / Dimensions

EN 994 ± 0.30% on nominal dimensions and

± 0.20% in the same batch

Squareness and straightness of edges

EN 994

± 0.15% in both directions

Dimensional stability

EN 986 Shrinkage and exten-

sion ≤ 0.2% in both di-rections

Shrinkage and ex-

tension ≤ 0.2% in both directions

Shrinkage ≤ 0.4% in both directions Extension

≤ 0.2% in both directions

Curling / doming EN 986 Maximum deviation of plane

≤ 2 mm

Maximum deviation of plane

≤ 2 mm

11 Requirements not listed in EN 1470 11.1 Classification of flammability Floor coverings The familiar "B1" (fire-retardant) building ma-terials fire class according to DIN 4102 for floor coverings no longer exists any more. This German fire classification has been su-perseded by the Euro classes Bfl-s1 and Cfl-s1 (fire-retardant) according to EN 13501-1, which are now binding in the European Un-ion. This European standard for the fire clas-sification of construction products according to their reaction to fire tests lays down these new classes for the flammability of floor cov-erings, which are now applicable throughout Europe for the first time.

The classification of floor coverings in this new standard is based mainly on test proce-dures which are similar to the B1 and B2 tests already known to us. In this case the abbreviation "fl" added to the fire class stands for "floorings", i.e. floor coverings. EN 13501-1 supersedes the DIN 4102 standard previ-ously in use and is now the legally binding norm for the flammability of floor coverings in Germany. See Technical Information Construction Technology No.1.3; Fire Safety, Flammability of Floor coverings.

Armstrong DLW AG • Technical Information • Cleaning Technology No. 3.1 • Issue 09 / 2007 Page 1


Cleaning Technology No. 3.1, Issue 09 / 2007


Characteristics of Cleaning Technology for Selection of floor coverings

Selection of the right floor covering may greatly re-duce the level of effort subsequently required for routine maintenance (cleaning). Another key factor here is the visual insensitivity to dirt: with floor cov-erings this factor is just as important as their resis-tance to wear. The visual insensitivity to dirt de-pends on the colour, pattern and also the surface structure of the floor covering. It is a general rule that using a soiled floor covering will result in greater wear and to possible discol-ouration. Floor coverings should therefore be cleaned professionally for reasons of hygiene and to maintain their value. See also the relevant cleaning recommendations of Armstrong DLW. 1 Textile floor coverings -

Fibrebonded Fibrebonded floor coverings can be cleaned and maintained very easily so that they are extremely economical. Thanks to the combination of coarse and fine fibres, dirt particles in different states of accumulation are less visible than may be the case with other textile floor coverings. Fibrebonded floor coverings with high levels of coarse fibres prove their worth in terms of con-struction for areas of heavy soiling. The insensitiv-ity to dirt largely depends on the construction, pat-tern and suitable colour combinations. As regards the insensitivity to dirt of the colours used in fibrebonded floor coverings the following three groups are possible, starting with the great-est insensitivity to dirt:

insensitive sensitive anthracite blue beige

olive dark blue mid-grey green violet light grey

dark brown red white Mottled fibrebonded qualities made of different coloured fibres are advantageous in terms of in-sensitivity to dirt. 1.1 The invisible barrier An anti-soiling finish additionally repels dirt and improves the removal of dirt from textile floorcover-ings during cleaning/maintenance. Anti-soiling fin-ishes are tough and ensure optimum dirt resis-tance and a long life, while offering an excellent long-lasting appearance with limited penetration of dust particles. They enclose every single fibre, en-suring that the dirt remains on the surface of the fibre material and is thus easy to remove. This film proves to be extremely effective, including where water, oily substances and dry dirt are concerned. 2 Resilient floorcoverings The greatest insensitivity is offered by resilient floor coverings, which best conceal the main types of soiling from sight. A distinction is made between: • light-coloured dirt, e.g. dust from the road • light-coloured footmarks and scratches • dark-coloured dirt, e.g. heel marks • dark marks and discolouration


Dark muted colour combinations are not sensitive to dark-coloured dirt, and light dirt combinations to light-coloured dirt. If both types of dirt occur, muted colour combinations are best.

Muted colour

combinations

Dark colour

combinations

Light colour

combinations Mid-grey Anthracite Light grey Green Dark blue Beige

Brown, red Black Yellow High-contrast patterned floor coverings are less sensitive than those with a less noticeable pattern. Our high-contrast marbled floor coverings are especially good here: • random marbled designs, irrespective of the

direction in which they are installed • patterns running longitudinally in the main di-

rection of traffic so that footmarks or heel marks are hidden from sight by the pattern

All resilient Armstrong DLW floor coverings with a smooth, delustred, slightly grained or relief-effect wear layer are easy to maintain due to their closed surface if our cleaning recommendations are ob-served. The basic raw material (plastic/synthetic floor coverings or linoleum) does not matter here. Resilient floor coverings with a structured surface require slightly more effort in terms of clean-ing/maintenance in comparison with flat surfaces. There will however be no problems with treatment here either if our cleaning recommendations are observed.

3 Preventative measures Rooms on the ground floor which are accessed from the street are subject to heavier soiling. This also applies to other areas, such as the points of connection between production and office areas. For this reason Armstrong DLW floor coverings which are especially insensitive to dirt and easy to maintain should be used there. If this is not desirable for reasons of design, pre-ventative measures such as entrance / zonal mat-ting or gratings should be used without fail to pre-vent as little dirt as possible being brought into the building. The criteria for the selection of entrance or zonal matting in terms of size, material and posi-tioning should be tailored to the prevailing circum-stances. It is advisable for users to have to take two or three steps on such matting.

Technical Information Cleaning Technology No. 3.2, Issue 09 / 2007

Armstrong Floor Products Armstrong DLW AG Technical Customer Service Stuttgarter Str. 75 D-74321 Bietigheim-Bissingen Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 340 Fax: +49 7142 - 71 146

Disinfection of Resilient Armstrong DLW floor coverings

1 Application In hospitals, old people's home, schools, nurseries etc. it must be possible to disinfect floor coverings as needed. In hospitals the prevention of infection is the most important aspect of clinic hygiene. The necessary hygiene and disinfection measures should only be carried out by trained specialists. 2 Methods 2.1 Wet mopping The classic method for disinfectant cleaning is the "dual mop" method. First of all, a cleaning mop is used to distribute sufficient disinfectant solution (or combined disinfectant solution) on the surface of the covering to partially dissolve stubborn dirt. In the second step, another almost dry mop is used to pick up the superfluous cleaning solution. This method ensures adequate wetting of the floor covering and therefore proper disinfection. 2.2 Damp mopping Specially treated cloths are required for damp mopping. This method is always used before wet mopping. 3 Agents 3.1 Disinfectants Due to their composition disinfectants are gener-ally also effective cleaners. In most cases it is therefore not necessary to additionally use a cleaning agent.

Caution: When mixing cleaners and disinfectants chemical or microbiological incompatibility may occur. This may also happen when using disinfec-tants on existing maintenance films. For this rea-son, such compatibility should be clarified with the relevant manufacturers without fail. 3.2 Disinfectant cleaners This type of surface disinfectant cleans and disin-fects in a single step. Compatibility of the mainte-nance agent (detergent) should be clarified with the relevant manufacturers in this case as well. 3.3 Combined cleaning,

maintenance and disinfectant agents

These surface disinfectants disinfect, clean and maintain in a single step. They do away with the need for all further treatment of resilient floor cov-erings and offer the greatest protection from er-rors of usage. The disinfectants suitable for surface disinfection are included in the list of disinfectants issued by the german association VAH (Disinfectant Com-mission in the Association for Applied Hygiene).

Which methods and agents are used for the disin-fection of floor coverings are specified by the par-ties responsible for disinfection.


4 Resistance to disinfectants

Resilient Armstrong DLW floor coverings are re-sistant to the surface disinfectants included in the list of disinfectants issued by the german associa-tion VAH (Disinfectant Commission in the Asso-ciation for Applied Hygiene). Alcohol-containing surface disinfectants which are mainly used to disinfect treatment chairs, tables, surfaces etc. and not just floors may partially dis-solve the maintenance film in a short time when allowed to act on coated floor coverings. This re-sults in white marks or dull spots on the mainte-nance film. They can be removed by thorough treatment followed by initial treatment. The same changes in the maintenance film also occur with alcohol-containing disinfectants for the skin, hands and wounds. Such white marks or dull spots caused by alcohol-containing disinfectants do not occur on DLW floor coverings with PUR re-inforcement which are not provided with coatings or initial treatment. Disinfectants used for the skin and wounds which contain substances resulting in discolouration such as iodine will cause marks on all resilient floor coverings. However, the use characteristics of DLW floor coverings are not altered or impaired in either case. Nonetheless, they may become damaged if sub-jected to the action of alcohol-containing disinfec-tants over lengthy periods, e.g. due to defective (dripping) dispensers etc. In areas in which only disinfection is required, only cleaning agents (detergents) resistant to alcohol- and disinfectants should be used for initial treat-ment.

5 General information

To prevent damage to linoleum, no aggressive al-kaline agents should be used for wet cleaning. If cleaning solution is allowed to get under the feet of furniture, rust stains or other marks may be pro-duced on all types of flooring.

6 Manufacturer information Bode Chemie GmbH & Co. Melanchthonstraße 27 D-22525 Hamburg Tel. +49 40 - 54 006 - 0 www.bode-chemie.de BUZIL-Werk Wagner GmbH & Co. Fraunhoferstraße 17 D-87700 Memmingen Tel. +49 83 31 - 930 - 6 www.buzil.com CC-Dr. Schutz GmbH Postfach 20 03 33 D-53133 Bonn Tel. +49 228 - 9 53 52 - 0 www.cc-dr-schutz.de Johnson Diversey GmbH Mallaustraße 50 - 56 D-68219 Mannheim Tel. +49 6 21 - 87 57 - 0 www.diverseylever.com Ecolab GmbH Postfach 13 04 06 D-40554 Düsseldorf Tel. +49 2 11 - 98 93 - 0 www.ecolab.com Schülke & Mayr GmbH Robert-Koch-Straße 2 D-22851 Norderstedt Tel. +49 40 - 5 21 00 – 0 www.schuelke-mayr.com Tana Chemie GmbH Ingelheimstraße 1-3 D-55120 Mainz Tel. +49 61 31 – 964 - 03 www.tana.de Wetrok GmbH Maybachstraße 35 D-51381 Leverkusen Tel. +49 21 71 - 398 - 0 www.wetrok.de


Armstrong Floor Products - Technical Information Product Technology No. 2.1, Issue 04_2009 [41p]

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Transcript of Armstrong Floor Products - Technical Information Product Technology No. 2.1, Issue 04_2009 [41p]