BS EN 438-1-2005 pdf download.High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) Part 1: Introduction and general information.
This Part of EN 438 gives an overview of the standard, and provides guidance in the selection and application of test methods and specifications contained in Parts 2 to 7 of EN 438.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 438-2. High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) – Part 2: Determination of properties
EN 438-3. High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) – Part 3: Classification and specifications for laminates /ess than 2 mm thick intended for bonding to supporting substrates
EN 438-4, High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) – Part 4: Classification and specifications for Compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater
EN 438-5, High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) – Part 5: Classification and specifications for flooring grade laminates less than 2 mm thick intended for bonding to supporting substrates
EN 438-6. High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) – Part 6: Classification and specifications for Exterior-grade Compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater
EN 438-7. High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on therrnosetting resins (Usually called Laminates) – Part 7 Compact laminate and HPL composite panels for internal and external wall and ceiling finishes
EN 13329. Laminate floor coverings — Specifications, requirements and test methods
3 Termanddefinition
For the purposes of this document, the following term and definition applies.
high-pressure decorative laminate(s) (HPL)
sheet(s) consisting of layers of cellulosic fibrous material (normally paper) impregnated with thermosetting resins and bonded together by the high pressure process described be’ow
The high pressure process is defined as the simultaneous application of heat (temperature  120 °C) and high specific pressure ( 5 MPa), to provide flowing and subsequent curing of the thermosetting resins to obtain a homogeneous non-porous material with increased density (1.35 g/cm), and with the required surface finish.
NOTE 1 This is a general definition of high-pressure decorative lamwate(s). More specific product definitions can be found in parts 3 to 6 of the standard.
NOTE 2 In addition to the more common surface layers based on thermosetting resin Impregnated decor papers, other decorative design surfaces are available such as metal foils. wood-veneers, textiles, etc. These products are not covered by a specific part of EN 438.
4 Guidance in the use of the standard
4.1 Description of parts
EN 438-2 describes the methods of test that shall be used to determine the performance of HPL products in their various internal and external application fields, e.g. construction, transport, furniture, flooring, etc. The test methods have been specifically developed for testing HPL.
It should be noted that not all test methods apply to all types of HPL. For example Test 11. Resistance to Abrasion, applies to flooring grade laminates; while Test 10. Resistance to Surface Wear, applies to all types of HPL except flooring grade laminates. It is therefore important to read the scope of the test method to determine whether it is applicable to a particular HPL product.
EN 438-3 to 6 specify the performance requirements for different types of high-pressure decorative laminates. Each of these parts is independent of the others, and only requires reference to EN 438-2 for details of the appropriate test methods.
EN 438-3 applies to laminates less than 2 mm thick Intended for bonding to supporting substrates to produce HPL composite panels. Classification systems and performance requirements are specified for heavy duty, horizontal and vertical grades of laminate, in standard, postforming and flame-retardant qualities.BS EN 438-1-2005 pdf download.