Essential Structural, Loadbearing Characteristics for LVL
The standard classifying LVL as a structural material is EN 14374. It gives the test requirements for nine essential characteristics (or basic requirements) for use in buildings including bridges. There is a second standard EN 14279 that covers its use as a product for non-structural situations. More.
Basic requirements and the relevant clauses in EN 14374
- Modulus of elasticity (4.5.2)
- Bending strength (4.4.2 and 4.4.3)
- Compression strength (4.4.6 and 4.4.7)
- Tension strength (4.4.4 and 4.4.5)
- Shear strength (4.4.8 and 4.4.9)
- Bonding strength (4.2)
- Release of formaldehyde (4.9)
- Durability (4.10)
- Reaction to fire (4.8; and also refer to the A1 to F classes for reaction to fire performance in EN 13505-1)
Some countries may not require a specific characteristic to be determined before granting the CE Mark. In this case, a manufacturer will say ‘no performance determined’ (NPD) in the accompanying CE marking information. This option is not possible when the characteristic has a threshold level.