BS EN 17368:2020 - Laminate Floor Coverings: Determination of Impact Resistance with Small Ball

The BS EN 17368:2020 is a crucial standard for professionals in the flooring industry, particularly those involved with laminate floor coverings. This standard provides a comprehensive methodology for determining the impact resistance of laminate flooring using a small ball, ensuring that the flooring materials meet the necessary durability and quality requirements.

Overview of BS EN 17368:2020

Released on February 26, 2020, this standard is an essential document for manufacturers, quality control professionals, and researchers who are focused on the performance and longevity of laminate floor coverings. The standard is published under the ISBN 978 0 539 02573 6 and consists of 12 pages of detailed guidelines and procedures.

Key Features and Benefits

• Comprehensive Testing Methodology: The standard outlines a precise method for testing the impact resistance of laminate flooring, which is critical for assessing the material's ability to withstand everyday wear and tear.
• Quality Assurance: By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet high-quality benchmarks, enhancing customer satisfaction and trust.
• Industry Compliance: Compliance with BS EN 17368:2020 is often required for products to be accepted in various markets, making it a vital document for international trade and market entry.
• Durability Assessment: The impact resistance test helps in evaluating the durability of laminate floor coverings, providing valuable data for product development and improvement.

Who Should Use This Standard?

This standard is indispensable for a wide range of professionals, including:

• Manufacturers: To ensure their products meet industry standards and are competitive in the market.
• Quality Control Engineers: For implementing rigorous testing procedures to maintain product quality.
• Research and Development Teams: To innovate and improve laminate flooring products based on reliable data.
• Regulatory Bodies: For setting benchmarks and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

Detailed Content of the Standard

The BS EN 17368:2020 standard provides a structured approach to testing, which includes:

• Preparation of Test Specimens: Guidelines on how to prepare laminate flooring samples for testing to ensure consistency and accuracy in results.
• Testing Equipment and Setup: Detailed specifications of the equipment required for the impact resistance test, including the small ball used in the procedure.
• Testing Procedure: Step-by-step instructions on conducting the test, including the application of force and measurement of impact resistance.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Methods for analyzing the test results and reporting them in a standardized format.

Why Impact Resistance Matters

Impact resistance is a critical property for laminate floor coverings, as it directly affects the flooring's ability to withstand physical stress and maintain its appearance over time. Floors with high impact resistance are less likely to suffer from dents, scratches, and other forms of damage, making them ideal for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings.

By following the BS EN 17368:2020 standard, manufacturers can ensure that their laminate flooring products are robust and reliable, providing end-users with long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing flooring solutions.

Conclusion

The BS EN 17368:2020 standard is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the production, testing, and regulation of laminate floor coverings. By providing a clear and detailed methodology for assessing impact resistance, this standard helps ensure that laminate flooring products are of the highest quality and durability. Whether you are a manufacturer looking to enhance your product offerings or a quality control professional aiming to uphold industry standards, this document is an essential tool in your arsenal.

BS EN 17368:2020

This standard BS EN 17368:2020 Laminate floor coverings. Determination of impact resistance with small ball is classified in these ICS categories:

• 97.150 Floor coverings

This document specifies a method of assessment of surface resistance to impact with a small ball tester and relates to the surfaces of laminate floor coverings according to EN 13329, EN 14978 or EN 15468. The test is generally carried out on parts of the laminate floor panels with suitable sizes.