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 L
w
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 L
w
.

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 L
w
. As the impact sound reduction value is de-
termined using test rigs, this is indicated by the in-
dex P: L
W,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
S

(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
S
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 L
W,P
in dB
Fibrebonded sheet flooring 20 - 22
Fibrebonded tiles approx. 19

5.2 Resilient floor coverings

5.2.1 Floor coverings without carrier

Type of flooring L
W,P
in dB
Vinyl homogeneous / heterogeneous 2 - 3
Linoleum 2.0 4.0 mm 3 - 6

5.2.2

Floor coverings with carrier
(composite floor coverings)

Type of flooring L
W,P
in dB
Vinyl Acoustic (foam backing) approx. 19
Linoleum Acoustic (corkment) approx. 14

5.2.3 Separate installation on
corkment

Type of flooring L
W,P
in dB
Linoleum on corkment 2.0 mm 14
Linoleum on corkment 3.2 mm 15



No. 1.2, Issue 09 / 2007

Armstrong DLW AG
Product Information
Stuttgarter Str. 75


Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 740
Fax: +49 7142 - 71 650
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

The thermal conductivity of materials is character-
ised by the coefficient of thermal conductivity
(lambda). The coefficient of thermal conductivity
specifies the quantity of heat conducted in 1 hour
(h) through 1 m 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 = 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 (). 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

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 + 28C. 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. + 60C. 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 m 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 m 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 10C 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.



No. 1.3, Issue 04 / 2009

Armstrong DLW AG
Product Information
Stuttgarter Str. 75


Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 845
Fax: +49 7142 - 71 650
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 E
fl
("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 B
fl
-s1 and C
fl
-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 A1
fl
and A2
fl
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 B
fl
s1 and
C
fl
s1.

As regards the test conditions, the fire class C
fl
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 A
fl
-s2, B
fl
-s2, C
fl
-s2, D
fl
and
E
fl
apply, and for easily flammable floor coverings
F
fl
.


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 B
fl
and C
fl
. 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 B
fl
-s1
and C
fl
-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 A2
fl
, B
fl
,

C
fl
and D
fl

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 B
fl
, C
fl
,

D
fl
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 D
fl
and E
fl
- 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 F
fl
- 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 B
fl
and C
fl
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 B
fl
s1and C
fl
-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 B
f
s1 and C
f

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

Armstrong DLW AG
Product Information
Stuttgarter Str. 75


Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 845
Fax: +49 7142 - 71 650
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.


1.1 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 10
9
/ 10
6
. 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 R
ST
attains
the following values:

50 k = 5 x 10
4
for installations with rated
voltages under 500 V
100 k = 1 x 10
5
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 <
10
6
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

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

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 10
8
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 10
9
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 10
7
or alternative
< 1 x 10
9
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 < 10
8
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 10
4
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 < 10
6
in these ar-
eas.

4 Test method

4.1. Resistance measurements
Unit of measurement = (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 < 10
8
,
test voltage 500 V with resistances > 10
8

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 cm. The underside of the electrodes is made
of conductive rubber.

test voltage 100 V with resistances < 10
6
,
test voltage 500 V with resistances > 10
6

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 < 10
5
and
Test voltage 100 V with resistances > 10
5
.

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 cm (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
23C 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 mm) 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 m) 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


Product Technology
No. 2.2, Issue 09 / 2007

Armstrong DLW AG
Product Information
Stuttgarter Str. 75


Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 845
Fax: +49 7142 - 71 650
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:
nominal
measurements
Sheet flooring:
nominal
measure-
ments
Sheet flooring:
nominal
measurements
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)
0.20 mm
(single value)
0.15 mm
(single value)
0.20 mm
(single value)
0.25 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)

0.20 mm
(single value)

-
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
0.1 mm
(average)

Thickness
3.2 mm
0.15 mm
Thickness
4.0 mm
0.20 mm
0.40 mm
(average)
0.1 mm
(average)
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
Only minor
changes in
surface,
no delamination
Only minor changes
in surface, no
delamination
- No damage
should be visi-
ble
Only minor
changes in
surface, no
delamination
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/cm (approx. 25 kg/cm)
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/cm
(approx. 30 kg/cm). 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
(80C, 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
N/50mm
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
N/50mm
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 mm 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
Heavy 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
Heavy 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
Heavy 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
Heavy 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
Heavy 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 mm 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 R
1
).
A floor covering is conductive if the vertical resistance is max. 1 x
10
9
.
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 R
1
is

10
9
.
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 80C 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/m 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 Bfls1 and Cfls1 (flame-retardant). The classifications Bfls1
and Cfls1 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 > 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 10
9

Electrostatic conductive floor coverings:
Vertical resistance max. 1 x 10
6

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 Surefliesner-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 R
ST

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 R
ST
(insulation capability) of the floor covering must
attain the following values:
50 k for installations with mains voltages under 500 V
100 k 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".



Product Technology
No. 2.3, Issue 11 / 2008

Armstrong DLW AG
Product Information
Stuttgarter Str. 75


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.


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

Domestic:
Living rooms, entrance halls

Commercial: Classrooms,
individual offices, hotels, boutiques
Domestic: Living rooms,
entrance halls

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/cm. 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/m.
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/m
2

Measured use
surface mass g/m
2

Measured use
surface mass g/m
2

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 (m
v
)
(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 m
v
in g/m. The value is calculated ac-
cording to EN 1963, test A.

For class 22 the value m
v
must be
< 80g/m,

for classes 22+ and 31
< 50 g/m,

for classes 23 and 32
< 40 g/m, and

for class 33
< 30 g/m

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
23C 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 L
w
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
s
or the calculated average
w
.

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
S
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
S
= 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 mK/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 m 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 m
2
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/m
2

ISO 8543

ISO 8543
0.875 kg

3.5 kg/m
0.625 kg

2.5 kg/m
-

-
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 B
fl
-s1 and C
fl
-
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

Armstrong DLW AG
Product Information
Stuttgarter Str. 75


Tel.: +49 7142 - 71 658
Fax: +49 7142 - 71 650
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.


Cleaning Technology
No. 3.2, Issue 09 / 2007

Armstrong DLW AG
Technical Customer Service
Stuttgarter Str. 75


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.
Melanchthonstrae 27
D-22525 Hamburg
Tel. +49 40 - 54 006 - 0
www.bode-chemie.de

BUZIL-Werk Wagner GmbH & Co.
Fraunhoferstrae 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
Mallaustrae 50 - 56
D-68219 Mannheim
Tel. +49 6 21 - 87 57 - 0
www.diverseylever.com

Ecolab GmbH
Postfach 13 04 06
D-40554 Dsseldorf
Tel. +49 2 11 - 98 93 - 0
www.ecolab.com

Schlke & Mayr GmbH
Robert-Koch-Strae 2
D-22851 Norderstedt
Tel. +49 40 - 5 21 00 0
www.schuelke-mayr.com

Tana Chemie GmbH
Ingelheimstrae 1-3
D-55120 Mainz
Tel. +49 61 31 964 - 03
www.tana.de

Wetrok GmbH
Maybachstrae 35
D-51381 Leverkusen
Tel. +49 21 71 - 398 - 0
www.wetrok.de

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