BS EN 438-6-2005 pdf download.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.
This Part of EN 438 appiles to Exterior-grade Compact laminates of thickness 2mm and greater. It specifies requirements for standard and flame-retardant laminates intended for use under outdoor weather conditions such as direct sunlight rain and frost. Two levels of performance are specified; one for moderate exterior conditions, and the other for severe exterior conditions. Laminates complying with this Part of EN 438 are referred to as Exterior-grade Compact laminates, and are characterized by their high tensile strength, high impact resistance, thermal shock resistance, and resistance to weather and corrosion. They are available in a variety of decorative colours, with high resistance to colour change and aging In outdoor applications. When they are self-supporting Exterior-grade Compact laminates are ready fcx installation, and only require cutting to size, drilling, etc. to suit the application. EN 438-2 specifies the methods of test relevant to this part 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 ISO 178, Plastics — Determination of flexural properties (ISO 178.2001)
EN ISO 527-2:1996, Plastics — Determination of tensile properties — Part 2: Test conditions for moulding and extrusion plastics (ISO 527-2:1993 including Corr 1:1994)
EN ISO 1183-1:2004, Plastics — Methods for determining the density of non-cellular plastics – Part 1:
Immersion method, liquid pyknometer method and titration method (ISO 1183:2004)
3 Term and definition
For the purposes of this document, the following term and definition applies:
high-pressure decorative exterior-grade compact laminate(s) (HPL)
sheet(s) consisting of layers of cellulosic fibrous material (e.g. paper) impregnated with thermosetting resins and bonded together by the high pressure process described below. The surface layer(s) on one or both sides, having decorative colours or designs, are impregnated with suitable thermosetting resins (aminoplastic based resins or others). A suitable outer layer or coating may be added to enhance weather and light protecting properties. The core layers are impregnated with phenolic based resins, and may be combined with other fibres and/or fillers during the manufacturing process
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.
For example an Exterior-grade flame-retardant HPL for severe outdoor conditions is specified as HPLJprEN 438-61EDF.
Laminate grades EGS and EGF are intended for moderate outdoor conditions, for example applications involving medium term exposure to average levels of sunlight and weathering.
Laminate grades EDS and EDF are nlended for severe outdoor conditions, for example applications involving long term exposure to strong sunlight and weather.
5 Requirements
5.1 Compliance
Exterior-grade Compact laminate types EGS, EGF, EDS and EDF shall meet all appropriate requirements specified in Clauses 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 This applies to both full-size sheets and cut-to-size panels.
5.2 Inspection requirements
5.2.1 General
Inspection shall be carried out in accordance with EN 438-2, Test Method 4 at a distance of 1 ,5 m.
5.2.2 Colour and pattern
When inspected in daylight or D65 standard iUuminant and again under tungsten illuminant F, there shall be no significant difference between the corresponding colour reference sample held by the supplier and the specimen under test.
NOTE Where colour and surface finish are critical, it is recommended that sheets be checked for colour and surface finish compatibility before fabrication or installation.
5.2.3 Surface finish
When inspected at different viewing angles, there shall be no significant difference between the corresponding surface-finish reference sample held by the supplier and the specimen under test.
NOTE Where colour and surface finish are critical, it is recommended that sheets be checked for colour and surface finish compatibility before fabrication or installation.BS EN 438-6-2005 pdf download.