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Through the European looking glass
30 Jan 2009
Topics: Windows, Doors, EN 14351, CE mark
EN 14351-1, published in May 2006, is the European Standard covering windows and doors made of any material. In essence, it means that CE marking is now required for windows and doors to be sold or transported across Europe (though CE marking remains voluntary for such products manufactured and sold in the UK). While CE marking may be applied now, the deadline for compliance has been recently extended to 1 February 2010.
With the introduction of this standard, BSI is modifying the Kitemark for Door and Windows to include three new characteristics that are either covered by building regulation or have threshold values in EN 14351-1. (CE marking may cover only these three areas whereas the Kitemark will include these as well as air permeability, water tightness and resistance to wind loading plus durability and security.)
- Dangerous substances: Very unlikely to be produced by windows made from the four main materials (PVCU, Timber, Aluminium and Steel).
- Load bearing capacity of safety devices: A simple test designed to demonstrate the capability of the window and its hardware to support a 350N load. BSI Product Services plans to offer this test to all Kitemark licence holders, though cascading of results may be introduced.
- Thermal performance: This can be tackled via three methods: calculations done in accordance with EN 10077 Parts 1 and 2; using default values from the same standard; or hot box testing.
In addition to addressing these three characteristics, a factory product control system is required. As part of the Kitemark scheme, licence holders' FPC is assessed regularly and will meet the requirements of the standard.
For more information on the Kitemark and how it relates to EN 14351-1: www.bsigroup.com/jan09windows
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