Appendix
Introduction
The EN 438 series of standards applies to decorative high-pressure laminates (HPL) manufactured in accordance with the requirements set out therein. In terms of production technology, these requirements primarily concern the pressure (≥ 5 MPa) and temperature (≥ 120 °C) at which minimum values must be achieved for approximately 30 specified properties. These properties can only be achieved if raw materials such as paper and resins are of high quality.
EN 438 series of standards
EN 438-1: Introduction and general information
This part provides general information on HPL, such as minimum requirements for the manufacture of HPL, its structure, possible applications, hygiene, safety and product classification systems.
EN 438-2: Determination of properties
This part specifies the test methods for the classification and specification of HPL. Not all of the 34 test methods listed therein apply to all types of HPL. For example, HPL for flooring has different requirements for abrasion resistance than other types of HPL, and the post-forming test is only relevant for post-forming HPL. For most test methods, the results are classified into 5 grades: Grade 1 to Grade 5, with Grade 5 representing the highest quality. Grade 4 is usually required as the minimum result. Depending on the type of HPL and the test method, Grade 3 may also suffice. Some of the test methods are based on subjective assessments, which, in cases of doubt, are carried out by 3 people.
EN 438-3: Classification and specifications for HPL intended for bonding to a substrate
This part specifies the most commonly manufactured HPL types – Standard, Postforming (post-formable), Flame-retardant.
EN 438-4: Classification and specifications for HPL Compact with a thickness of 2 mm and greater
This part specifies the most commonly manufactured HPL Compact types – Compact, Compact flame-retardant.
EN 438-5: Classification and specifications for HPL for flooring with a thickness of less than 2 mm
Flooring and materials for flooring are not covered by this compendium. The requirements for flooring are of a different nature. Flooring manufacturers usually offer various materials in different quality grades. Further information can be found at EPLF (European Producers of Laminate Flooring).
EN 438-6: Classification and specifications for HPL-Compact for outdoor use with a thickness of 2 mm and above
The specification for HPL for outdoor use focuses less on properties such as hardness, abrasion resistance, or stain resistance. Instead, the emphasis is on resistance to weathering, such as temperature change resistance and UV resistance.
EN 438-7: Compact panels and HPL multilayer composite panels for wall and ceiling cladding for indoor and outdoor use
This part of the standard describes the requirements and other specifications set out in EU directives such as the Construction Products Regulation (2024/3110). This includes the requirements for conformity assessment and factory production control (FPC) as well as for CE marking.
EN 438-8: Classification and specifications for Design HPL
This part of the standard describes the requirements and other specifications that exist in EU directives such as the Construction Products Regulation (PEM note: the number of the new CPR, which will be published at the end of the year, should be included here). This includes the requirements for conformity assessment and factory production control (FPC) as well as CE marking.
EN 438-9: Classification and specifications for HPL with alternative core structures
It is also possible to produce HPL with coloured core layers. This is achieved by using melamine resin-impregnated core papers instead of phenolic resin-impregnated ones. However, melamine resin has different properties to phenolic resin, including increased brittleness, which leads to a higher susceptibility to stress cracking. For decorative and technical purposes (vapour barriers, magnetic adhesion), metal layers may be incorporated into the core of HPL.
