Overview
EN ISO 16534:2020 - Thermal insulating products for building applications - Determination of compressive creep (ISO 16534:2020) - specifies the equipment and test method for measuring the compressive creep of thermal insulation specimens under sustained compressive stress. Adopted by CEN and prepared by ISO/TC 163 in collaboration with CEN/TC 88, this standard defines how to quantify time‑dependent deformation of insulation materials when subjected to constant loads at specified temperature and humidity.
Key Topics
- Scope and purpose: Measurement of the increase in deformation over time (compressive creep) for thermal insulating products used in buildings.
- Principle: Record deformation of a specimen under constant compressive stress and specified environmental conditions; compute creep as the increase in deformation after an initial period.
- Apparatus requirements:
- Loading device with two flat plates (one movable, self‑aligning) capable of maintaining static stress within ±5%.
- Measuring device (e.g., dial gauge or displacement transducer) with accuracy to 0.01 mm.
- Vibration damping and substantial support to minimize external influences.
- Test specimens:
- Taken from the same sample/preparation as compression tests (see ISO 29469).
- Thickness equals original product thickness; width not less than thickness; facings/skins retained if intended in use.
- Selection, preparation and conditioning procedures are specified (or agreed between parties if no product standard exists).
- Procedure and data:
- Test conditions, stress selection, test duration and calculation methods are defined (see Clauses 8–9).
- Annex A provides calculation method; Annex B gives an example of linear regression analysis.
- Accuracy and reporting: Requirements for measurement accuracy and the content of the test report are specified.
Applications
Who uses EN ISO 16534:2020 and why:
- Manufacturers - to characterise long‑term mechanical behaviour of insulation products and support technical datasheets.
- Independent test laboratories - to perform repeatable compressive creep tests for certification and quality control.
- Specifiers, architects and structural engineers - to evaluate suitability of insulation under sustained loads (e.g., under floor finishes, cladding or compression from fixings).
- Regulatory and certification bodies - to verify compliance with product standards and performance claims.
Practical value: the standard helps predict time‑dependent thickness loss under load, informing installation details, serviceability assessments and durability claims for building insulation.
Related standards
- ISO 29469 - Thermal insulating products - Determination of compression behaviour (referenced for specimen selection and compression testing).
- ISO 29768 - Determination of linear dimensions of test specimens (referenced for specimen dimensions).
- EN ISO 16534:2020 is the CEN-adopted version of ISO 16534:2020.