EN 13331-2:2002

Overview

EN 13331-2:2002 is a key European Standard developed by CEN that details the assessment methods for trench lining systems via calculation or testing. This standard serves as Part 2 in the EN 13331 series and focuses on verifying the conformity of trench lining systems, specifically those made from steel, cast iron, and aluminium, as specified in Part 1 (product specifications). It provides standardized procedures to ensure the structural integrity and safety of trench linings used in earthworks, excavation, foundation construction, and underground work.

Trench lining systems are essential for stabilizing vertical trench walls and protecting workers from trench collapses. EN 13331-2 complements Part 1 by specifying how to assess these systems through rigorous calculations aligned with Eurocodes and physical testing protocols.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application: Defines the assessment limits to principal components made of steel, cast iron, and aluminium, with methods aligned to EN 13331-1 requirements.
• Assessment Methods:
  • Calculation Procedures: Follow Eurocodes ENV 1993 (Steel structures) and ENV 1999 (Aluminium structures) to calculate bending resistance, structural capacity, tensile resistance, deflections, and connection moments.
  • Testing Protocols: Structural tests focus particularly on struts with variable length adjustments, including compressive resistance tests conducted using calibrated hydraulic machines.
• Load and Structural Configurations: Assessment considers the most severe loading configurations, including:
  • Panels on both or one side of slide rails
  • All assembly variations listed in the instruction manual
• Material Verification: Incorporates material property checks through certificates (EN 10204) and hardness/tensile tests according to EN 10003-1 and EN 10002-1.
• Statistical Analysis: Test results must be statistically evaluated as per prEN 12811-3 to determine characteristic resistance values.
• Referenced Standards: Incorporates related standards to ensure harmonization with material testing, temporary works equipment, and Eurocode structural rules.

Applications

EN 13331-2:2002 is crucial for civil engineering and construction professionals involved in:

• Temporary works and excavation safety: Ensuring trench lining systems provide reliable support under various load conditions.
• Design validation: Allowing engineers to compute structural capacities or confirm design assumptions through standardized testing.
• Quality control: Verifying manufacturing quality and material properties of trench lining components.
• Construction safety compliance: Meeting EU-wide requirements by aligning test/calculation methods with harmonized European regulations.
• Product development: Supporting manufacturers in the design and certification of trench lining products by providing clear evaluation criteria.
• Underground infrastructure projects: Maintaining trench stability to safeguard workers and excavation sites during foundation and underground construction.

Related Standards

• EN 13331-1:2002: Specifies product requirements and materials for trench lining systems-Part 1 of the series.
• prEN 12811-3: Details load testing procedures for temporary works equipment, including trench support components.
• ENV 1993-1-1: Eurocode 3 covering general rules and design of steel structures.
• ENV 1999-1-1: Eurocode 9 covering general rules and design for aluminium structures.
• EN 10002-1: Method for tensile testing of metallic materials at ambient temperature.
• EN 10003-1: Brinell hardness test method for material verification.
• EN 10204: Types of inspection documents for metallic products.

By integrating these standards, EN 13331-2 establishes a comprehensive framework for accurate and reliable assessment of trench lining systems, promoting safety and efficiency in excavation and foundation construction across Europe.

Keywords: trench lining systems, EN 13331-2:2002, trench support, trench safety, structural assessment, Eurocode 3, Eurocode 9, trench liners testing, trench lining calculation, excavation safety standards, temporary works equipment.