The FLORIM MAGNUM S1 system for ventilated façades has attained ETA (European Technical Assessment) certification as an external cladding. This important certification is valid in all 28 EU and EEA Member States, in Turkey and in Switzerland. ETA assessments are standardized and their validity can therefore be extended to other countries, if assessed and approved by the competent government bodies and by the product engineer.
The FLORIM MAGNUM S1 system, for use with ventilated external claddings that are mechanically fixed to the substrate, consists of one 6 mm-thick Florim Magnum Oversize porcelain slab that is mechanically fixed to the substructure by means of a special mechanical anchor inserted into slots created on the back of the slab for both existing buildings and new constructions.
The FLORIM MAGNUM S1 System envisages the installation of L-brackets and vertical aluminum T-profiles with maximum separation of 80 cm. The profile is extruded so as to house the ceramic slab support plates. The plates, which are glazed black and fixed by means of rivets, are not visible as they are incorporated into the width of the ceramic slab. A continuous double bead of adhesive with anti-vibration function is laid on each vertical profile and, together with the safety net installed on the back of the ceramic slab, stiffens the system. This is interrupted at the areas of contact with the vertical profiles to ensure better adhesion. The ceramic slabs are mechanically fixed by riveting the holding hooks previously positioned in the slots on the back of the slab and present along the entire perimeter thereof. The ceramic cladding slabs define a pattern characterized by 7 mm vertical and horizontal open joints.
The complex attainment of the ETA is achieved by successfully passing the performance tests and trials specified in specific guidelines (EAD 090062-00-04.04 Kits for mechanically fixed external wall cladding – European Assessment Document) drawn up by EOTA (European Organization for Technical Approvals). ETA certification is a technical assessment that contains the study and analysis of the performance of the S1 System in its entirety, from the metal members to the Florim Magnum Oversize slab.
The ETA certification attained includes the characteristic features and experimental studies concerning the FLORIM MAGNUM S1 system in its use for rainscreen cladding.
The main tests carried out on the FLORIM MAGNUM S1 system are:
- Reaction to fire
The reaction to fire classification of the FLORIM MAGNUM S1 ventilated external cladding system in accordance with EN standard 13501-1:2007 + A1:2009 and with the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/364, is B-s2,d0.
- Resistance to wind load
Resistance to wind load has been assessed in accordance with section 2.2.9 and Annex E of EAD 090062-00-0404. The negative pressure test was conducted to a maximum value of -4500Pa, without rupture or damage. This is the maximum value permitted by the test equipment.
- Impact resistance
Impact resistance has been assessed in accordance with section 2.2.11 and Annex G of EAD 090062-00-0404 and the results relate to the full configuration that also comprises the horizontal profiles. The sample tested was classified as Category I. Category I is a ground-level area that is easily accessible to the public and is vulnerable to hard body impact, but is not subject to abnormally heavy use.
- Mechanical resistance
Axial tension: assessed in accordance with section 2.2.12.6 and Annexes I.3 and N of EAD 090062-00-0404. The mechanical resistance test was performed on samples without any sealant in the slot on the back of the slab.
Shear resistance: assessed in accordance with section 2.2.12.7 and Annexes I.4 and N of EAD 090062-00-0404. The mechanical resistance test was performed on samples without any sealant in the slot on the back of the slab.
Combined tension and shear resistance test: assessed in accordance with section 2.2.12.8 and Annexes I.5 and N of EAD 090062-00-0404. The mechanical resistance test was performed on samples without any sealant in the slot on the back of the slab.
- Drainability
In accordance with paragraph 2.27 of the EAD and based on construction details, available technical knowledge, experience and installation criteria, it can be stated that water penetrates through the ventilation joints or that condensate can be drained from the cladding without accumulating in or causing moisture damage to the substrate or cladding kit.
Detailed information and the technical data of all components are provided in the ETA documentation and in the associated test reports.
The ETA is now recognized Europe-wide as the standard for identifying suitable technological systems for ventilated façades: this certification therefore not only guarantees the quality of the ceramic cladding product but of the entire system, including the individual components and assembly techniques.
This certification provides both clients and engineers with an additional guarantee and is a great achievement in the ventilated façades industry.
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