What is BS EN 636?

BS EN 636 is a technical standard that defines the criteria for performance and quality of plywood used in structural applications. Plywood is an engineered wood product made from thin layers of wood veneer glued together with adjacent layers having their grain rotated up to 90 degrees to one another. This alternating grain pattern provides strength and stability to the plywood.

Technical Specifications of BS EN 636

The BS EN 636 standard specifies various requirements that plywood must meet to be classified as suitable for structural usage. These specifications include the type of wood, adhesive properties, physical properties, and manufacturing tolerances.

The most commonly used wood species for structural plywood are softwoods such as spruce, pine, and fir. Hardwood plywood may also be used for specialized applications. The type of wood used affects the strength and durability of the plywood.

The adhesive used in plywood manufacturing is another important factor. BS EN 636 requires the use of adhesives that can withstand exposure to moisture, heat, and other environmental conditions. Adhesive properties play a crucial role in ensuring the plywood's structural integrity.

In terms of physical properties, BS EN 636 sets standards for factors like bending strength, stiffness, impact resistance, and dimensional stability. Plywood must exhibit adequate strength and rigidity to carry and distribute loads effectively. It should also be able to withstand external forces without deformation or failure.

Manufacturing tolerances specified by BS EN 636 regulate thickness variations, core gaps, and face veneer quality. These tolerances ensure consistency and uniformity in the production of structural plywood, facilitating its predictable behavior in construction applications.

Applications of BS EN 636 Plywood

Structural plywood complying with BS EN 636 is widely used in the construction industry. It provides strength and stability, making it suitable for a range of applications such as:

1. Roofing: BS EN 636 plywood is commonly used as roof decking, providing a stable base for roofing materials like shingles or tiles.

2. Flooring: Plywood panels meeting BS EN 636 standards are often used as subfloors or underlayment for various types of flooring, ensuring a level and stable surface.

3. Sheathing: Structural plywood is utilized as wall and roof sheathing, contributing to the overall strength and stability of the structure.

4. Formwork: BS EN 636 plywood can be employed in formwork applications, providing temporary molds for concrete structures during construction.

5. Scaffolding: Plywood complying with BS EN 636 is utilized in scaffolding systems, offering a sturdy platform for workers and materials on construction sites.

In Conclusion

BS EN 636 defines the technical requirements for structural plywood, ensuring its suitability for use in various construction applications. This standard plays a crucial role in maintaining quality and performance consistency, enabling safe and reliable construction practices.

Structural plywood meeting BS EN 636 specifications provides the necessary strength, durability, and dimensional stability required for demanding structural applications. Its versatility and widespread usage make it an essential material in the construction industry.