Aug 23 2011
Ceram, an independent expert in innovation, sustainability and quality assurance of materials, will soon be extending the scope of its testing of external wall insulation (EWI) systems, following the investment in two bespoke hygrothermal rigs. Under ISO 17025 through UKAS, Ceram will therefore provide testing for the entire performance requirements of M.O.A.T. 22 and ETAG 004 www.ceram.com/hygro
The new rigs test the hygrothermal performance of EWI systems, to assess how the products and materials react over time when exposed to extreme changes in humidity and temperature.
Each of the rigs has a double aperture and accommodates large-scale panels (up to 7m2), thus providing rapid turnaround times. Although both the M.O.A.T. 22 and ETAG 004 test programmes are aimed at renders, the rigs can also assess other materials and finishes such as cement particle boards, glass reinforced plastic (GRP), MgO boards and cladding.
CE Marking
Testing to ETAG 004 is necessary to obtain CE marking for render products. Ceram is a Notified Body under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and accredited to ISO 17025; hence able to provide testing support to certify products for CE marking purposes.
Product Guarantees
The M.O.A.T. 22 test programme can be combined with structural strength and wind loading tests (static and dynamic wind loading are available at Ceram) to predict the expected lifetime of a render product, thus allowing manufacturers to guarantee the lifetime of their products.
Joanne Booth, Structures Manager at Ceram commented: “With four apertures and an accelerated testing time of 28 days, we will be able to test a wide range of materials to current industry requirements quickly and easily. Furthermore, Ceram’s ability to test for CE marking and product guarantee purposes, with the addition of structural testing, means all hygrothermal product testing requirements can be conducted at one laboratory, providing manufacturers with rapid product development and certification.”
As one of the leading test facilities in the UK, Ceram provides testing of raw materials, finished products and full-scale structures, both in the laboratory and on-site.
For further information about the new M.O.A.T. 22 and ETAG 004 testing services available at Ceram, visit www.ceram.com/hygro.