3.Machining and processing HPL
Materials requirements apply to HPL type S (standard quality) or type F (flame-retardant quality) as per EN 438. Which HPL is selected depends on the field of use and the respective fire regulations. Nearly all fire regulations require materials which are especially tested and have to be tested in the form in which they will be used later on. Testing is therefore not conducted only with the HPL, but also always with the complete composite element consisting of substrate, adhesive and HPL. The test also applies for this specific combination and design in each case. The company processing the composite elements consequently always has to verify that these meet the materials requirements for the different fields of use. This means a new test is required each time a change in the composition of the composite elements is no longer covered by a test report. It also means, however, that new or separate materials requirements always have to be taken into account. The required test reports can be obtained from the manufacturers of the composite elements. Be aware, that this list does not claim to be complete. New test procedures may have come into force. Therefore, it is important for the persons processing the composite elements to gain an overview of the latest regulations if composite elements are intended for applications where regulations for reaction to fire exist.
