ISO 25620:2008

Overview

ISO 25620:2008 specifies a standardized test method for determining the long-side friction of joints between laminate floor panels assembled on the floor using mechanical locking systems. The method quantifies the maximum force needed to produce sliding (adhesion sliding) along the long-side joint of mechanically assembled panels, providing an objective parameter for product comparison, quality control and design verification.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Scope: Long-side friction measurement for mechanically assembled laminate floor panels (mechanical locking systems).
• Test principle: A tensile test where a test specimen with long-side joints is pulled through two outer assembled panel parts; the maximum force (F_RL) is recorded as the long-side friction.
• Apparatus:
  • Verified tensile testing machine (force-measuring system calibrated in accordance with ISO 7500-1:2004, class 3 for the applied force range).
  • Caliper gauge for dimensional checks and a balance readable to 0.1 g.
  • Steel supporting frames (specified thickness and width) assembled with screws (e.g., M12), washers and nuts.
• Specimen preparation and conditioning:
  • Sample ten panels to prepare a minimum of five specimens.
  • Condition panels to constant mass at (23 ± 2) °C and (50 ± 5) % RH; constant mass when two successive weighings 24 h apart differ by ≤ 0.1% of mass.
  • Cut parts from centre of two different panels, drill holes (diameter 0.2 mm greater than screw OD) and assemble per manufacturer instructions, ensuring specimen is flat and without torsion.
• Test parameters:
  • Pulling direction parallel to long-side joints. Suspension in the middle of the moved 200 mm part.
  • Tensile speed 0.5 mm/min, traversing distance ≈ 3 mm.
• Results and reporting:
  • Report maximum force (F_RL), standard deviation and coefficient of variation. Test report must reference ISO 25620, list deviations, laboratory and client details, product identification and test results.

Applications and Users

ISO 25620:2008 is used by:

• Flooring manufacturers for product development and design validation of mechanical locking systems.
• Third-party test laboratories and certification bodies performing performance verification and quality control.
• R&D and quality engineers comparing joint performance and durability across products.
• Specifiers and procurement teams who require objective metrics for laminate joint integrity.

Practical uses include benchmarking locking systems, investigating installation or warranty claims, and supporting product datasheets with standardized friction data.

Related Standards

• ISO 7500-1:2004 - Verification and calibration of force-measuring systems for tensile/compression testing machines (normative reference cited by ISO 25620).