What is BS EN 15037-5 - Lightweight blocks for simple formwork for floor system about?
BS EN 15037 is a European Standard on precast concrete products. The main aim of the BS EN 15037-5 series is to provide manufacturers with best industry practices to demonstrate the performance of lightweight concrete blocks such that they are fit for its intended use.
BS EN 15037-5 is the fifth part of the series that deals with the requirements and the basic performance criteria for lightweight blocks used as formwork during the construction of the floor system. The blocks are used in conjunction with precast concrete beams in compliance with EN 15037-1, with or without cast-in-situ concrete for the construction of beam-and-block floor systems.
Note: BS EN 15037-5 does not deal with blocks made in polystyrene, with or without tong, or combined with different materials where polystyrene contributes to more than 50 % of the mechanical resistance of the block. These blocks are covered by EN 15037-4, Precast concrete products -Beam-and-block floor system - Part 4: Expanded polystyrene blocks.
Examples of typology of floor systems are given in Annex B of EN 15037-1:2008.
Who is BS EN 15037-5 - Lightweight blocks for simple formwork for floor system for?
BS EN 15037-5 on precast concrete products is useful for:
- Concrete and concrete product manufacturers
- Lightweight block manufacturers
- Architects
- Civil engineers
- Quality control and testing personnel
- Inspection bodies
Why should you use BS EN 15037-5 - Lightweight blocks for simple formwork for floor system?
The evaluation of conformity refers to the completed precast elements which are supplied to the market and cover all the production operations carried out in the factory.
In this regard, BS EN 15037-5 provides the best industry recommendations on product characteristics and includes procedures for testing, evaluation of conformity and marking of precast concrete products.
The test methods recommended by BS EN 15037-5 help determine properties such as mechanical strength, thermal resistance of the floor system, fire resistance and thermal conductivity. It also provides guidance on the gravity loading tests.
Thus, if you are a manufacturer of precast concrete blocks used during the construction of the floor system, complying with BS EN 15037-5 can help demonstrate the performance and credibility of your product, ensuring that they are fit for purpose.
