EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

CEN/TC 127

Date: 2018-032024-01

EN 15254-5:2009 2024 rev1rev2

CEN/TC 127

Secretariat: BSI

Extended application of results from fire resistance tests — Non-loadbearing

walls — Part 5: Metal sandwich panel construction

Erweiterter Anwendungsbereich der Ergebnisse von Feuerwiderstandsprüfungen –

Nichttragende Wände – Teil 5: Sandwichelemente in Metallbauweise

Application étendue des résultats d’essais de résistance au feu – Murs non porteurs –
Partie 5: Panneaux sandwiches métalliques pour la construction

ICS:

Descriptors:

Document type: European Standard

Document subtype:
Document stage: Publication
Document language: E
EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

Contents Page

European foreword............................................................................................................................... 3
1 Scope ............................................................................................................................................ 4
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................ 4
3 Terms and definitions, symbols and abbreviations ................................................... 4
3.1 Terms and definitions ........................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Symbols and abbreviations ................................................................................................. 6
4 Establishing the field of extended application ............................................................. 7
4.1 General ........................................................................................................................................ 7
4.2 Assumptions in the extended application ...................................................................... 7
5 Rules for extended applications of the tested product/construction .................. 8
5.1 General ........................................................................................................................................ 8
5.2 Variations in the materials of the product .................................................................. 10
5.2.1 General ..................................................................................................................................... 10
5.2.2 Variations in the metal sheets ......................................................................................... 10
5.2.3 Variations in the adhesive ................................................................................................ 11
5.2.4 Variations in the core material ....................................................................................... 11
5.3 Variations in the construction ......................................................................................... 12
5.3.1 Variations in span length .................................................................................................. 12
5.3.2 Variations in orientation ................................................................................................... 15
5.3.3 Variations in the panel thickness ................................................................................... 16
5.3.4 Variations in the longitudinal joint construction ..................................................... 16
5.3.5 Variations in the boundary conditions and fixing system..................................... 16
5.3.6 Length and height of wall construction ........................................................................ 16
5.4 Interaction between the factor influences .................................................................. 16
5.5 Support structure ................................................................................................................. 17
5.6 Heating conditions ............................................................................................................... 17
6 Calculation methods and additional measurements............................................... 17
6.1 Calculation methods............................................................................................................ 17
6.1.1 General ..................................................................................................................................... 17
6.1.2 Calculation of strength properties ................................................................................. 17
6.2 Additional measurements to be carried out in the reference test ..................... 18
7 Report of the extended application analysis .............................................................. 18
Annex A (informative) Typical behaviour of a metal faced sandwich panel wall when
exposed to fire ....................................................................................................................... 19
Annex B (normative) Evaluation of extension of span length ............................................. 20
Bibliography ......................................................................................................................................... 23

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 EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

European foreword

This document (EN 15254-5:20182024) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 127
“Fire safety in buildings”, the secretariat of which is held by BSI.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of
an identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by October 2018, and conflicting national
standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by October 2018.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the
subject of patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent
rights.

This document supersedes EN 15254-5:20092018.

This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission
and the European Free Trade Association.

This standard is currently composed of the following parts:

— EN 15254-2, Extended application of results from fire resistance tests — Non-loadbearing walls
— Part 2: Masonry and Gypsum Blocks;

— EN 15254-4, Extended application of results from fire resistance tests — Non-loadbearing walls
— Part 4: Glazed constructions;

— EN 15254-5, Extended application of results from fire resistance tests — Non-loadbearing walls
— Part 5: Metal sandwich panel construction;

— EN 15254-6, Extended application of results from fire resistance tests — Non-loadbearing walls
— Part 6: Curtain walling;

— EN 15254-7, Extended application of results from fire resistance tests — Non-loadbearing walls
— Part 7: Non-load bearing sandwich panels — Ceilings.

According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia,
Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

1 Scope
This document defines rules for extended applications, provides guidance, and, where
appropriate, defines procedures, for variations of certain parameters and factors associated with
the design of internal and external non-loadbearing walls constructed of metal sandwich panels
and that have been tested in accordance with EN 1364-1, which could generate a classification in
accordance with EN 13501-2.
EN 15254-5 applies for self-supporting, double skin metal faced sandwich panels having an
insulating core bonded to both facings as defined in EN 14509 not stabilizing a whole building or
parts of it.

2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
EN 1363-1, Fire resistance tests — Part 1: General Requirements

EN 1363-2, Fire resistance tests — Part 2: Alternative and additional procedures

EN 1364-1, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements — Part 1: Walls

EN 1993-1-2, Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures — Part 1-2: General rules — Structural fire
design

EN 13501-2, Fire classification of construction products and building elements — Part 2:

Classification using data from fire resistance tests, excluding ventilation services

EN 14509, Self-supporting double skin metal faced insulating panels — Factory made products -
Specifications

EN 15725, Extended application reports on the fire performance of construction products and
building elements

EN ISO 13943, Fire safety — Vocabulary (ISO 13943)

3 Terms and definitions, symbols and abbreviations

3.1 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 14509, EN 15725,
EN 1364-1, EN 1363-1 and EN ISO 13943 the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/

— ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp

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 EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

3.1.1
direct field of application of test results
outcome of a process (involving the application of defined rules) whereby a test result is deemed
to be equally valid for variations in one or more of the product properties and/or intended end-
use applications

3.1.2
extended field of application of test results
outcome of a process (involving the application of defined rules that may incorporate calculation
procedures) that predicts, for a variation of a product property and/or its intended end-use
application(s), a test result on the basis of one or more test results to the same test standard

3.1.3
factor
variation that may be applied to a parameter, e.g. a change in the core thickness

3.1.4
factor influence
potential cause of a change in the fire resistance when the factor is changed, e.g. an increase in
fire resistance as result of an increase of the thickness of the core

3.1.5
fastening
fixing
component that fastens the panels to a support structure or to the test frame

3.1.6
fixing system
system consisting of fastenings and possible other means to fasten the panels to a support
structure or to the test frame

3.1.7
height of assembly
height of the wall in the reference test or in the end-use application for horizontally or vertically
installed wall panels

3.1.8
length of assembly
length of the wall in the reference test or in the end-use application for horizontally or vertically
installed wall panels

3.1.9
reference test
fire resistance test in accordance with EN 1363-1 and EN 1364-1, and where applicable
EN 1363-2, on which the extended application is based and the results of which are used as the
main source of data for the extended application

3.1.10
stitching
component for fixing panels to panels in the longitudinal joint

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

3.1.11
span length
centre to centre distance between the supports of a panel and/or intermediate supports to which
the sandwich panel is fixed

3.1.12
support structure
construction onto which the panel wall is fastened in the end-use application

3.1.13
test frame
frame containing the test construction for the purpose of mounting onto the furnace

3.2 Symbols and abbreviations

For the purposes of this document, the following symbols and abbreviations apply.
E etanchéité
F load
Ft,Ed the tensile load on the fasteners
Fv,Ed the shear load on the fasteners
Ft,Rd the design tensile load on the fastener at normal temperature
Fv,Rd the design shear load on the fastener at normal temperature
I isolation
L span length
L1 distance between midspan of two adjacent panels
L2 overlap of the metal facing at the panel to panel joint
PCS gross calorific potential
R resistance, loadbearing capacity
b width of panel
c1 opening in adjacent metal sheet joints at normal room temperature on unexposed side
c2 opening in adjacent metal sheet joints during the reference test on unexposed side
dc depth of core
fj deflection of panel to panel joint in the reference test (deflection into the furnace to be
taken as positive)
f1, f2 deflection of two adjacent panels at midspan in the reference test (deflection into the
furnace to be taken as positive)
g panel weight per square meter
k yield strength factor
n number of fasteners
q pressure action on the panel in a fire situation
Δc relative increase in opening of the metal sheet joint in the reference test
Δf relative deflection of the joint compared to the adjacent panels in the reference test (to
be calculated taking into account the positive and negative directions of the deflections)

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4 Establishing the field of extended application

4.1 General

An extended application analysis is required when the application differs in one or more
parameters from the tested one described in the test report and/or in the classification document,
and which is not covered by the direct field of application of the classification document.
Extended application is a prediction of the expected fire resistance of fire resistantfire-resistant
metal faced sandwich panels. It may be based on interpolation between or extrapolation from test
data. The fundamental consideration shall be that the fire resistantfire-resistant metal faced
sandwich panels after extension would achieve the required fire performance if it were to be
tested according to EN 1364-1.
The extended application of test results from metal faced sandwich panels used as a non-
loadbearing wall shall be based on the reference fire test results performed according to
EN 1364-1 and may be complemented by one or more additional tests. The general rules in
EN 15725 shall be followed.
The necessary information for extrapolation of test results shall be assessed during the sampling
and testing as specified in EN 14509-3:20XX, 13.5.1.
4.2 Assumptions in the extended application

The following assumptions are considered when evaluating extended applications for sandwich
panels:
a) the wall is required to provide fire resistance in the end-use condition; relevant classes are
given in EN 13501-2;

b) the wall is assumed to be exposed on the entire face of one side to the standardized heating
conditions given in the EN 1363-1 fire resistance test specification or to alternative and
additional procedures given in the EN 1363-2;

c) the structure above and below the wall does not deflect vertically during the fire exposure
period; this simulates the non-deflecting nature of the test frame which forms part of the
furnace test apparatus;

In reality constructions deflect and this should be taken into account by the building designer
when designing the building and planning the constructional details so that no vertical loads
are applied to the wall.

d) after delamination of the fire-exposed facing the dead load of the sandwich panels is carried
by a support structure to which the ends of the sandwich panels are attached;

e) the support structure has at least the same loadbearing capacity, R, of the resistance to fire
performance as the sandwich panel wall regarding integrity;

f) the self weightself-weight of the facing and core is calculated from the volume and density of
the materials;

g) the calculation of the reduction in the strength properties of steel at elevated temperature
shall be in accordance with EN 1993-1-2.

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

5 Rules for extended applications of the tested product/construction

5.1 General

When performing extended applications for a tested wall changes can occur either in the
materials and/or in the construction. Both are dealt with in this standard. Table 1 and Table 2 list
the changes which may or may not be made in an extended application assessment. The rules for
the changes are given in 5.2 and 5.3.
Table 1 — Material changes relevant to extended application

Parameter Factors Factor influence on Rules

performance
Integrity E Insulation I
Changes in Chemical influence no influence a 5.2.2.1
metal facings composition of
coating
Change of colour influence influence 5.2.2.1

Change from influence influence 5.2.2.1

between coated to
and non coatednon-
coated metal
Sheet thickness influence no influence a Allowed up
to ± 0,2 mm of
tested thickness.
Change from one no information no 5.2.2.2
metal to another information
Change in sheet no information no 5.2.2.3
geometry information
Changes in Amount influence influence 5.2.3
adhesive
Type influence no influence a 5.2.3
Changes in Type major influence major 5.2.4
core material influence
Change in major influence major 5.2.4.2 - 5.2.4.6
composition. influence
aIt is understood that when a change in a factor can influence the integrity of a joint, there is a possibility
that a change in the leakage of hot gases or in joint geometry can also influence the temperature rise near
the joint and therefore influence the insulation rating.

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 EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

Table 2 — Constructional changes relevant to extended application

Parameter Factors Factor influence on Rules

performance
Integrity E Insulation I
Span length Decrease no influence no influence a Allowed
Increase influence no influence a 5.3.1
Orientation influence no influence a 5.3.2
Panel width Decrease no influence no influence a Test results valid
Increase influence no influence a Test results valid
up to + 20 %
Panel thickness Decrease no information major 5.3.3
e.g. core Increase influence
thickness
Joint Type major influence major 5.3.4
construction influence
Stiching influence influence Not allowed
decreased
Stiching increased influence influence 5.3.4
Sealants influence influence 5.3.4
Fixing system Type major influence no influence a 5.3.5
Amount major influence no influence a 5.3.5
decreased
Amount increased influence no influence a Allowed
Protection major influence influence 5.3.5
decreased
Protection influence influence Allowed
increased
Length of Vertical no influence no influence a 5.3.6
assembly installation
Horizontal See span length
installation 5.3.1
Height of Vertical See span length
assembly installation 5.3.1
Horizontal influence no influence a 5.3.6
installation
Support Changes no information no influence a 5.5
structure
aIt is understood that when a change in a factor can influence the integrity of a joint, there is a possibility
that a change in the leakage of hot gases or in joint geometry can also influence the temperature rise near
the joint and therefore influence the insulation rating.

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

5.2 Variations in the materials of the product

5.2.1 General

Metal faced sandwich panels consist of three main materials (facing metal sheets, adhesive and
core material). In the case of auto adhesively bonded panels the foamed core material also forms
the adhesive layer during the foaming process.
Changes in the properties of the metal sheets will not affect the fire resistance results significantly
and changes can therefore be allowed. On the other hand, even small changes in the core material
can result in big variations in the fire resistance test results. These facts are taken into
accountconsidered in the following rules.
5.2.2 Variations in the metal sheets

5.2.2.1 Variations in the coatings

Organic surface coating on fire exposed side has no influence to fire resistance.

Organic surface coating on unexposed side has influence to fire resistance:

- Test results for very light colours are also valid for sandwich panels with light colours
and dark colours (colour definition acc. to EN14509, Annex E)
- Test results for light metallic colours are also valid for sandwich panels with very light
colours, light colours and dark colours (colour definition acc. to EN14509, Annex E)
- Test results for light colours are also valid for sandwich panels with dark colours (colour
definition acc. to EN14509, Annex E)
- Test results achieved with panels with organic coated metal sheet are not valid for
panels without organic coating.
- Test results achieved with panels without organic coating are valid for panels with
organic coating.
The most essential property of the coating regarding fire resistance is the emissivity on the
unexposed side. Normally the emissivity for a coated steel sheet is between 0,8 and 0,95. A change
in emissivity of - 10 % for a new coating compared to the tested one is thus allowed if there is at
least a 10 % margin in the insulation test result compared to the I-classification. Test results are
always valid for coatings with higher emissivity values compared to the tested one. When a
change in coating is made the manufacturer of the coated sheet shall provide emissivity
properties for the products.
A non-coated metal sheet can have an emissivity as low as 0,1. A change from a coated to a non-
coated sheet is therefore not allowed. The same rule as for coatings above applies also in this case.
A change in emissivity of - 10 % is allowed if the emissivities for the different sheets are known.
The energy content of the coating on the exposed side is small and will not affect the fire
resistance properties of the sandwich panel. Test results are valid for all coatings.
If modifications in the coatings on the unexposed side are made compared to the tested one, the
reaction to fire classification of the product shall be the same or better than the tested one. Test
results are though valid for all colours of the same type of coating.
5.2.2.2 Variations in the metal material

The following rules are valid for extended applications:

a) when steel is tested the test results are valid for all grades of steel;

NOTE For more information regarding metal faces see EN 14509.

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 EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

b) when stainless steel is tested the test results are valid for all grades of stainless steel;

c) for other types of metals the test result is valid for tested type only.

5.2.2.3 Changes in profile geometry of facing

The following rules are valid for extended applications:

a) Panels with different metal thicknesses on both sides are regarded as symmetrical if
difference in thickness is max. 0,2 mm.

b) For panels with flat or small profiling (between 0 mm and 5 mm) on one or both sides test
results are valid for any change in the range 0 mm to 5 mm profiling and panels are regarded
as symmetrical. This is allowable only if the declared cross panel tensile strength value is
equal or higher than for the tested panel.

c) For profiles greater than 5 mm test results are valid for variations ± 50 % of the depth of the
profile as long as dc is not reduced. See Figure 1.

5.2.3 Variations in the adhesive

This paragraph is valid only for panels with adhesively bonded cores. The following rules apply
for an adhesive with no strength at high temperatures (>500 °C) which means that the metal
sheet on the exposed side will disconnect from the core in the very beginning of a fire and the
construction will lose its sandwich capability. For this reason an organic adhesive cannot be
changed to a non-organic one or vice versa.
Normally the energy content of the adhesive is small and will not affect the fire resistance
properties of the sandwich panel. The following rules are valid for extended applications:
a) For panels tested with PCS values of the adhesive ≤ 4 MJ/m2, the results are valid for all
adhesives when PCS value stays below 4 MJ/m2.

b) For panels tested with PCS value of the adhesive > 4 MJ/m2, the results are valid for all PCS
values of the adhesive up to 1,15 x PCS of the tested one.

c) For panels tested with PCS value of the adhesive > 4 MJ/m2 and > 1,15 x PCS, test results in
minutes shall be reduced by the same percentage as the PCS value is over the initial tested
adhesive.

5.2.4 Variations in the core material

5.2.4.1 General

Main core materials are defined in EN 14509. The behaviour regarding fire is different and cannot
be compared. Changes from one core material to another are therefore not allowed. Variations
within each core material type are allowed in accordance with the rules given in 5.2.4.2 to 5.2.4.6.
There are several factors in the different core materials that affect the fire properties of the core
and of the sandwich panel. It is therefore not possible to extend the results from one core material
producer to another core material producer.
5.2.4.2 Mineral wool (MW)

Generally, the greater the density of the mineral wool the higher is the flexural strength of the
panel. Density will be dictated by room-temperature structural design requirements. However,
variation in density affects the I-insulation value. The results are always valid for an increase in

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

density in the density range 50 kg/m3 to 150 kg/m3. A decrease in density is allowed down to
−10 % of tested density.
Structural design will govern the orientation of fibres, i.e. lamellas or slabs used in the panels.
Changes in orientation of fibre has an influence on fire resistance and is therefore not allowed.
Gaps between the lamellas or ends of lamella or slabs should be avoided. Test results are valid for
panels with a decrease in the number of lamella or slab joints.
The organic content in mass percentage is governed by room temperature strength of the core.
Variation in organic content can affect the fire resistance properties. The organic content of the
mineral wool of tested panel shall be measured by EN 13820 to allow an EXAP procedure. and
tThe following rules shall be followed:
a) A smaller amount of organic content is always allowed compared to the tested one;

b) An increase in organic content of 0,51 percentage points or up to 20 % of tested amount

whatever is the smallest, is allowed if the total amount of organic content is below 10 %. For
example, a result with 5 % organic content is valid also for a core with 6 % and a result with
2,5 % organic content for a core with 2,5 3 %. An increase is not allowed where the organic
content is greater than 10 %.

The nature and proportions of materials used to manufacture the MW fibres shall not be different
from those used in the reference test.
5.2.4.3 Polyurethane (PUR) and polyisocyanurate (PIR)

The test results are valid for the same chemical system and blowing agent. The test results are
valid for ± 10 % of tested density.
5.2.4.4 Extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS)

No extended application is allowed.

5.2.4.5 Phenolic foam (PF)

The test results are valid for the same chemical system and blowing agent. The test results are
valid for ± 10 % of tested density.
5.2.4.6 Cellular glass (CG)

No extended application is allowed.

5.3 Variations in the construction
5.3.1 Variations in span length

Two aspects of integrity shall be assessed. First the ability of the whole panel assembly to resist
collapse shall be assessed when the adhesive bond fails on the exposed side and the panels lose
their flexural strength. To resist collapse the ends of the panel facings shall be secured to the
structure using suspension details (e.g. steel cleats with fastenings). The strength of the
suspension details shall be able to carry the dead loads at the temperatures they attain from an
increased load of a longer span panel. This can be achieved by increasing the amount of fixings so
that the load per fixing is not greater than the tested one or by calculationcalculated one in
accordance with 6.1.2.
The second aspect of integrity to be assessed shall be the ability of joints between adjoining
sandwich panels to resist the passage of fire.

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In horizontally oriented panels, which span between columns or walls, both facings are subjected
to in-plane shear stresses analogous to the pattern of stresses in the web of a steel I-beam. The
stresses can be accompanied by out-of-plane deformations caused by gravity and the prevention
of free thermal expansion at the ends of the facings when exposed to fire. Hence the stresses and
deformations are complex in nature and because the facings are usually thin, typically 0,5 mm
thick, they can suffer buckling and sagging which means that openings can occur at horizontal
panel joints, especially at midspan, leading to unpredictable failure of integrity.
In vertically oriented panels, it is assumed that after delamination the faces hang from the top:
the fastenings for the top of the fire-exposed face shall support the dead load of that face whereas
the fastenings for the top of the unexposed face shall support the combined load of the face and
the core for the entire fire resistance period.
For both horizontally and vertically oriented panels the rules in Annex B of this standard apply.
It has to be noted that extension in span length is only allowed with tested panel orientation.
An extension in the span length above 4 m is possible dependent on the overrun reached fire
resistance time compared to the classification by using default values (see Table 4).
Previously to any discussions about extension of span length, the laboratory has to collect
information’s about the manufacturer objectives. The following information is needed:
a) Definition of the family targeted for the extension of span length. By family range of panels
thicknesses is meant, with the same:

— configuration at the joints system;

— size of panels;

— core material (admitted variations see 5.2.4.);

— metal material (admitted variations see 5.2.2.2.);

— profile geometry of facing (admitted variations see 5.2.2.3);

— adhesive (admitted variations see 5.2.3).

b) Define objectives in term of classification (characteristics and periods). Characteristics and

periods are given in EN 13501-2. Characteristics are E or EI or EI-M or EW. Combination of
characteristics and periods are given in EN 13501-2.

c) Define objectives in term of maximum span length for each classification periods.

This information leads to establish Table 3 for one family:

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

Table 3 — Validity of test results inside a family

Panels thicknesses (in mm)

A B C D E F
1 - - - - - -
2 - - - - - -
Maximum
3 - span - - - -
Classification periods (in min)

length = Z
4 - - - - - -
5 - - - - - -
Maximum
6 - - - span - -
length = X
7 - - - - - -
8 - - - - - -
Maximum
9 - - - - - span
length = Y

With:
a) A < B < C < D < E < F;

b) 1 < 2 < 3 < 4 < 5 < 6 < 7 < 8 < 9;

c) X < Y < Z.

A test performed with the smallest thickness (B in the example) and the larger span length (Z in
the example) validate bigger thicknesses (From B to F) and smaller spans lengths (From Z to X)
in one classification period.
If a manufacturer has any test results, the laboratory used the table to establish the less onerous
test program to reach manufacturer objectives.
If the manufacturer has already some test results, which fulfil conditions define in the scope, the
laboratory include these results in the table and then is in position to establish
a) the less onerous test program to reach manufacturer objectives or

b) the maximum span length for each classification period.

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Table 4 — Extension of tested span length

Tested sSpan length Extrapolation1)

Horizontal installation

For the extrapolation of a 3 m test

-20 min/m from test result Up to 6 m if 20 %
From 3 m to 6 m
overrun, min 10 min.
From 6 m to 7,5 m (or 8 m?) -35 min/m from test resultUp to 7,5 m if 35 %
(based on 3 m test result)3 m overrun, min 10 min.
Up to tested length + 2 m if 20 % overrun, min 10
>4m
min.

Vertical installation

For the extrapolation of a 3 m test

From 3 m to 7,5 m -35 min/m from test result

For the extrapolation of an additional test with X m span

From X m (tested) to X+2 m ≤ 10 m

(horizontal)
-35 min/m from test result
From X m (tested) to X+2 m ≤ 9 m
(vertical)

1) Direct field of application from 3 m to 4 m is given in EN 1364-1 and EN 14509. Extrapolation

beyond 4 m has to start with the test results for 3 m span length.

To create a panel family the rules of EN 14509 apply.

In any case no extension of span length is permitted above 10 m.
5.3.15.3.2 Variations in orientation

Results for vertically mounted panels are not directly valid for horizontally mounted panels and
vice versa. To be able to have classifications for a whole thickness range a minimum of 3
thicknesses shall be tested in both orientations (see 5.3.3). All relevant classification criteria (E, I
and W) shall be considered. To reduce the amount of testing the following rules apply:
a) For the other orientation one test with the thinnest of panels tested in the first orientation
shall be tested. If the test result in the second orientation is at least 90 % compared to the
first orientation regarding the worst criteria of the two fire resistance test results then the
test results from the first orientation can be used when extrapolating to other thicknesses
increased/decreased with the same percentage given by the two tests.

b) If the results enable an increase of the fire resistance time it is not allowed to go to a higher
class on the other thicknesses in the second orientation based on the interpolation.

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5.3.25.3.3 Variations in the panel thickness

Variations in panel thicknesses are due to changes in thickness of the core material. An increase
in thickness will lead to a better insulation value and a test result shall therefore always be valid
for thicker panels. A decrease in thickness is not allowed.
If test results for three or more thicknesses are available, results for other thicknesses may be
linearly interpolated. If the difference between the minimum and maximum thickness is less than
50 % of the maximum thickness, two test results are enough.
5.3.35.3.4 Variations in the longitudinal joint construction

Even small changes in the joint construction can easily affect the integrity of the wall and shall
not be allowed with the following exceptions:
a) an increase in the overlap in the metal facing at the joint is always allowed if other dimensions
remain unchanged;

b) an increase in the amount of fixings is always allowed;

c) tongue and groove joint in core material is allowed if tested as butted. Increase in the depth
of the groove and in the tongue respectively is always allowed but no decrease compared to
the tested one. Dimensional changes in thicknesses in the tongue and groove are allowed up
to ± 50 % of the tested value but minimum thickness is 20 mm;

d) joints tested without sealants can always be sealed in the metal joint on the exposed side;

e) if a construction is tested with sealing materials in the joints test results shall only be valid
for joints with the same type of sealing materials and shall not be valid for joints without
sealants.

5.3.45.3.5 Variations in the boundary conditions and fixing system

Minor changes in the boundary conditions and fixing system (for example an increased amount
of fasteners, increased diameter of fasteners; but material cannot be changed) are allowed
provided that it can be shown that the bearing capacity is not reduced and the risk of collapse is
not increased according to calculations given in 6.1.2.
Some fixing systems can be protected. An increase in protection ability is always allowed. If
protection ability is decreased and the non-influence is shown for one panel type the result is
valid also for other panel types.
5.3.55.3.6 Length and height of wall construction

For horizontal installation the height of the wall in the end-use application (provided that each
panel is fixed to the bearing structure in such a way that the load is not accumulated from above
to the lower parts of the wall) can be freely increased providing that the panels in the reference
test are fixed as described in EN 1364-1.
For vertical installation, the length of the wall in the end-use application can be freely increased
providing that boundary conditions in the reference test are as described in EN 1364-1.
5.4 Interaction between the factor influences

The situation with combined variations is always very complex and shall be considered case by
case. To be able to combine variations there shall be an overrun of at least 20 % subject to a
minimum 10 min compared to the classification.

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5.5 Support structure

The panel assembly is a non-loadbearing wall and is always fixed to a support structure. The
support structure is not normally included in the fire test but is essential to the functioning of the
wall. In a fire test the support structure is the test frame into which the assembly is mounted. The
material of the frame can vary from one laboratory to another but it can be assumed that the
frame is rigid without any big deflections (as described in EN 1363-1). In practice, the panel
assembly can be fixed to different types of support structures. The test results shall be valid if the
following requirements on the support structure are fulfilled:
a) the support structure has at least the same fire resistance classification time for loadbearing
capacity (R) as the panel assembly has for insulation and/or integrity;

b) the fixing system has the same loadbearing capacity (R) in the support structure as in the
frame used in the reference test.

c) The fixation area can also be protected with thermal insulation. If such thermal insulation is
used in the test, thermal insulation with at least same fire performance shall also be used in
end use conditions.

5.6 Heating conditions

This standard deals with extended application of metal faced sandwich panel walls tested
according to the standard EN 1364-1. If the test is conducted according to the standard heating
curve given in EN 1363-1, the test results shall also be valid for the external fire exposure curve
given in EN 1363-2.

6 Calculation methods and additional measurements

6.1 Calculation methods
6.1.1 General

Calculation methods shall be confined to calculations of average temperature of panels and load-
bearing capacity of fixings.
NOTE Integrity cannot be predicted with calculation methods.

6.1.2 Calculation of strength properties

An easy way to validate the load bearing capacity of fasteners and fixing system is to calculate the
imposed load per fastener in the reference test and fix the amount of fasteners so that the load
per fastener imposed by the changes made is less than in the reference test. A more accurate
calculation method is given in Annex B. Calculations of panel-fastening suspension capacity shall
be made:
a) for the exposed metal face after it has delaminated from the core; and

b) for the unexposed metal face assuming it carries the whole weight of the core material.

Temperature data are needed at the panel head detail and this data should be obtained from
several thermocouples mounted on the test specimen specifically for this purpose. Strength loss
of the metal facings and other fabrication details which transmit the load at the panel head shall
be calculated and fastening shear and pull-out strength data used to check that the dead loads can
be carried throughout the classification period.

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EN15254-5:2018 2024 (E)

6.2 Additional measurements to be carried out in the reference test

The following data shall be measured during the reference test:

a) the deflections of the panel assembly in both directions according to Annex B;

b) measurements on joint behaviour according to Annex B.

Some extended applications require additional measurements from the reference test. If these
are needed the sponsor shall ask for them when ordering the reference test.
The following data can be used and measured:
a) additional temperature measuring points on the fastenings and fixings (shall not be used for
classification purposes);

b) additional temperature measuring points below any kind of protections;

c) additional temperature measuring points within the construction.

7 Report of the extended application analysis

The extended application report shall be used in conjunction with the classification document as
specified in EN 13501-2 and shall contain the information requested in EN 15725:2010, Clause 6
and at least the following:
Measurement results on c1, c2, f1, f2, fj, L1 and L2.
a) e)

b) f)

c) g)

d)

Figure 1 — Depth of the core and definition of dc dependent on face geometry (see
EN 14509)

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Annex A
(informative)

Typical behaviour of a metal faced sandwich panel wall when exposed

to fire

When one face of a sandwich panel assembly is exposed to fire the following behaviour may be
expected. The panel initially bows towards the fire and the ends of the panel can move because
of expansion of the fire-exposed face. When delamination of the fire-exposed face occurs the
flexural strength of the assembly is lost and, unless both faces are restrained at the ends, the
panels can collapse. The fastenings for the ends of the fire-exposed face shall support the dead
load of that face whereas the fastenings for the ends of the unexposed face shall support the
combined dead load of the face and the core for the entire fire resistance period. Combined
fixations (e.g. through fixings) for both faces are also possible.

Before fire At early stage of fire At early stage of fire At the end of fire
(0 min to 2 min) (2 min to 5 min)
Key
1 fire

Figure A.1 — Typical behaviour of a metal faced sandwich panel wall when exposed to
fire

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Annex B
(normative)

Evaluation of extension of span length

To extend the span length for test results according to EN 1364-1 see 5.3.1. When these rules are
used the direct application rule regarding deflections shall not be taken into account.
EXAMPLE 1 For a horizontally oriented panel the Ttest result for a construction is 135 min. The
classification is EI 120.

For a span of 5 m the time is: 135 – 2 x 20 = 95 min. For 5 m span the classification is EI90.

For a span of 6 m the time is: 135 – 3 x 20 = 65 min. For 6 m span the classification is EI60.

For a span of 7 m the time is: 135 – 3 x 20 -1 x 35 = 40 min. For 7 m span the classification is EI30.Overrun
is < 20 % compared to EI 120 classification so allowed span length for this classification is the tested span
+1 m according to direct application rules. Compared to EI 90 classification the overrun is > 35 % and
therefore an extension in span length is allowed for this fire resistance classification according to the rules
in 5.3.1 and gives an extended span length of 7,5 m for EI 90, without additional tests with longer spans.

EXAMPLE 2 Additional to the test of Example 1 another test with a 6 m span has been done with a
different panel type, but representative for the panel family of Example 1.

The test result is 125 100 min. For tThe classification is EI 90 classification the overrun is > 20 % and
therefore an extension in span length is allowed according to the rules in 5.3.1, Table 4, and gives an
extended span length for this panel type of 8 m for EI 90.

For a span of 7 m the time is: 100 – 1 x 35 = 65 min. For 7 m span the classification is EI60.

For a span of 8 m the time is: 100 – 2 x 35 = 30 min. For 8 m span the classification is EI30.

The following measurements and calculations shall be made:

a) During the reference test the deflection differences at midspan between the joints and the
centres of the adjoining panels shall be measured throughout the test. Direction of deflections
shall be taken into account so that deflection into the furnace is positive. The relative
difference is called Δf and shall be measured for all joints. During the reference test also the
opening up of the joints at the same places as above shall be measured during the test. The
relative difference is called Δc and shall be measured for all joints. If there are problems to
directly measure the deflections (f1, f2, fj) and joint openings (c1, c2) reference lines can be
used;

b) The first measurement shall not be made earlier than at 10 min.

i. Measurements for calculating ∆f and ∆c shall be carried out during the whole test. Span
lengths for different thicknesses can be linearly interpolated taking into account the
rules in 5.3.3;

ii. If tests are carried out for a panel assembly with two different spans (3 m and longer)
and the results give the same classification for the assembly in both tests then the longer
span can be used when calculating the allowable spans for other panels with the same
joint construction and in the same direction tested only in a standard furnace;

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c) The required amount of fasteners shall always be calculated in accordance with the formulae
in this annex.

Δf = (fj – 0,5x(f1 + f2))/L1

Figure B.1 — Calculation of Δf in midspan section

Δc = (c2 – c1)/L2

Figure B.2 — Calculation of Δc

NOTE The measurements of c and f-values are needed for a future calculation method for the
extension of span lengths based on these values.

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By vertical mounting orientation:

Forces are acting at one face, but
both faces have to be designed for
the same force as fire can be from
each direction. Forces acting at the
top of the panels:
Tensile forces: Ft,Ed = L b (q+g)
Shear forces: Fv,Ed = (L b q)/2

By horizontal mounting orientation:

Forces are acting on the extreme
fastener at the end of the panels:
Tensile: Ft,Ed = (Lbq)/2

Shear: F1 = (LbqLbg)/2
F2 = Lb(q+gL/8b)
Fv,Ed = (F12+F22)1/2

In the equations above, q is air pressure in fire (0,3 kPa if nothing else specified), g own weight
in kPa, L span in m, b panel width in m.

The number of fasteners needed is calculated as following for temperature on the fasteners as
measured from the fire test:
Fv,Ed/Fv,Rd + Ft,,Ed/Ft,,Rd ≤ n ky,θ
where
Fv,Rd and Ft,,Rd = the design value for shear and tensile strength of the fastener in normal
temperature;
Fv,Ed and Ft,,Ed = the forces acting at the fasteners calculated from the formulae above;
n = the number of fasteners;
ky,θ = the decrease on the yield strength of the used steel according to EN 1993-1-2 (ky,θ = 1 for
steel temperature up to 400 °C, below 1 for steel temperature above 400 °C);
The material and load factors are set to 1,0 in the above equations.

Figure B.3 — Membrane (catenary) forces acting on the fasteners of a sandwich panels in
case of fire

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Bibliography

[1] EN 1991-1-2, Eurocode 1: Actions on structures - Part 1-2: General actions - Actions on
structures exposed to fire

[2] EGOLF TC2 N672, EXAP 15254-5 Extrapolation of height above 4m in partition of metal
sandwich panels

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