Class 0 sealant

[Alman]

Hi, was hoping if someone could help me.

I have a client who is creating a screen that will be formed of plastic-based panels in an aluminimum frame. Because of its intended location, it requires a Class 0 rating. The major products (the panels and frame) have all been tested and achieve Class 0 rating, but the question was raised about the sealant holding the panels in place. I have stated that this can be excluded based on the 50% of the floor area rule, however strictly speaking this would mean that the sealant should achieve at least Class 3.

As it is nigh-on impossible to perform a BS 476: Part 6/7 test on sealant, how can this be tested (if required)?

[nearlythere]

Hi, was hoping if someone could help me.

I have a client who is creating a screen that will be formed of plastic-based panels in an aluminimum frame. Because of its intended location, it requires a Class 0 rating. The major products (the panels and frame) have all been tested and achieve Class 0 rating, but the question was raised about the sealant holding the panels in place. I have stated that this can be excluded based on the 50% of the floor area rule, however strictly speaking this would mean that the sealant should achieve at least Class 3.

As it is nigh-on impossible to perform a BS 476: Part 6/7 test on sealant, how can this be tested (if required)?

Can you get the safety data info for the sealant?

[Fishy]

If this is a Building Reg's issue, then I'd consider the sealant (and the frame for that matter) to be excluded, under "Definition of walls" 6.2 clauses d) and e) of the England & Wales Approved Document B.

[Alman]

Am awaiting the full details from the client. The sealant will be extruded EPDM, which apparanetly has been tested to the German DIN standards (no idea of the results yet).

I would also agree with the interpretation of Section 6.2 of ADB as the sealant is technically part of the frame. I'll test the water with Building Control and see how it goes.

Thanks.

[Fishy]

If it's only been tested to DIN standards, then you won't be able to draw any meaningful comparisons with the BS classifications or Euroclasses.  Different matter if they've been tested to the ENs in Germany, though.  B-s3, d2 to EN 13501-1 is the Standard you're looking for.  If they offer you anything else it's unlikely to be useful.