Overview
EN ISO 24344:2012 (identical to ISO 24344:2008) specifies test methods for determining the flexibility and deflection of resilient floor coverings. It defines two complementary procedures-Method A (mandrel flexibility test) and Method B (deflection test using a deflection frame)-and sets requirements for sampling, conditioning, test apparatus, execution and reporting.
Key Topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Methods to assess a resilient flooring material’s ability to bend without cracking and its resistance to deformation under a concentrated load.
- Specimen sampling: Take six specimens (250 mm × 50 mm) per sample-three in the machine direction and three transverse; cut with clean edges and avoid notched specimens.
- Conditioning
- Method A: condition test pieces and mandrels at 23 ± 2 °C and 50 ± 5% RH for 24 h.
- Method B: store test pieces in a 25 ± 0.5 °C water bath for a minimum of 3 h.
- Method A - Mandrel flexibility
- Bend specimens 180° around fixed metal mandrels (nominal diameters ranging from 7 mm to 120 mm) with wearing surface out and in.
- Bend at a uniform rate to complete the 180° bend in 3–5 s.
- Inspect for breaks, cracks or permanent damage; report pass/fail vs specified mandrel or report smallest mandrel passed.
- Method B - Deflection
- Use a deflection frame with two outer cylinders spaced 150 ± 5 mm and a centred loading bar (radius 4 mm).
- Deflect at 100 ± 5 mm/min and record maximum deflection at break to the nearest 1.0 mm.
- Reporting: Include method used, product identification, test conditions, mandrel diameter or deflection at break, specimen orientation, deviations, and test date.
- Precision/bias: No precision and bias are established due to the subjective nature of visual assessment.
Applications and who uses it
EN ISO 24344:2012 is used where assessment of bending behavior and deformation resistance is required:
- Flooring manufacturers for product development and quality control.
- Independent testing laboratories and certification bodies conducting conformity testing.
- Specifiers, architects and engineers evaluating material suitability for installations with tight radii or concentrated load areas.
- Procurement and compliance teams verifying product claims for contracts or building regulations.
Keywords: EN ISO 24344:2012, ISO 24344, resilient floor coverings, flexibility test, mandrel test, deflection test, flooring testing standards.
Related standards
- EN 435 - Resilient floor coverings - Determination of flexibility (superseded)
- ASTM F137 - Flexibility of resilient flooring (mandrel apparatus)
- ASTM F1304 - Deflection of resilient floor tile
- JIS A 1454 - Test methods - Resilient floor coverings