EN 14617-2:2016

Overview

EN 14617-2:2016 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies the test method for determining the flexural strength (bending resistance) of agglomerated stone flat products under a concentrated load. This test method provides a standardized approach to measure the breaking resistance of engineered stone materials used in construction and architectural applications, ensuring consistent quality and performance assessment.

The standard defines the procedures, apparatus, specimen preparation, test execution, data analysis, and reporting requirements vital for accurate and repeatable flexural strength measurements. It is one part of a comprehensive series on agglomerated stone testing that includes physical, mechanical, and durability characteristics.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose
  Specifies a reliable method to determine flexural strength of agglomerated stone, critical for structural safety and material certification.

• Test Principle
  The method uses a three-point bending test where a specimen is supported on two rollers and loaded centrally until fracture occurs. Breaking load data is used to calculate flexural strength.

• Specimen Preparation

  • Minimum dimensions defined for length, width, and thickness appropriate for type testing and factory production control.
  • Surface finishes include sawn, honed, polished, or other finishes as required.
  • Conditioning at controlled room temperature or drying to constant mass for cement-bonded stones ensures consistent moisture content for accurate results.

• Apparatus Requirements
  Includes calibrated loading machines, rollers for specimen support and load application, precision balances, ovens for conditioning, and accurate measuring devices.

• Test Procedure
  Load is applied at a controlled rate until specimen failure. Dimensions and breaking load are recorded; fractures occurring outside specified zones or with material flaws necessitate retesting.

• Result Calculation and Expression
  Flexural strength is computed from breaking load and specimen dimensions and expressed in megapascals (MPa) to one decimal place.

• Statistical Analysis
  Annex A provides guidelines for statistical evaluation of test results, including calculation of mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and lower expected value assuming normal or log-normal distributions, enhancing data reliability.

• Reporting Requirements
  Comprehensive test reports must include specimen details, test conditions, flexural strength values with deviations, surface finish, and any deviations from the standard procedure.

Applications

• Quality Control in Manufacturing
  Enables manufacturers of agglomerated stone products to verify mechanical strength compliance during production and prior to product release.

• Material Certification
  Supports certification bodies in assessing product suitability for structural and architectural usage according to European standards.

• Research and Development
  Provides a reproducible test method for developing new engineered stone products with optimized bending resistance.

• Construction Industry
  Assists architects, engineers, and contractors in selecting materials with verified flexural strength for countertops, tiles, cladding, and other applications where load-bearing capacity is crucial.

Related Standards

EN 14617-2:2016 is part of the broader EN 14617 series on agglomerated stone test methods, complementing measurements of:

• EN 14617-1: Determination of apparent density and water absorption
• EN 14617-4: Abrasion resistance
• EN 14617-5: Freeze and thaw resistance
• EN 14617-6: Thermal shock resistance
• EN 14617-8: Resistance to fixing (dowel hole)
• EN 14617-9: Impact resistance
• EN 14617-10: Chemical resistance
• EN 14617-11: Linear thermal expansion coefficient
• EN 14617-12: Dimensional stability
• EN 14617-13: Electrical resistivity
• EN 14617-15: Compressive strength
• EN 14617-16: Dimensions, geometric characteristics, and surface quality of modular tiles

These related standards ensure comprehensive assessment of agglomerated stone performance properties, supporting harmonized quality and safety across Europe and international markets.

By adhering to EN 14617-2:2016, stakeholders in the natural stone and engineered stone industries can reliably assess flexural strength, contributing to enhanced product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. This standard plays a crucial role in ensuring the durability and functionality of agglomerated stone materials in diverse construction environments.