EN 15187 Colour Fastness Testing of Plastic Office Surfaces
The European standard EN 15187 defines a protocol for assessing the colour fastness properties of plastic surfaces in office environments. This testing method is crucial for ensuring that the aesthetics and functionality of furniture, fittings, and other items remain intact during their service life, especially when exposed to various environmental conditions such as light, humidity, and mechanical abrasion.
Colour fastness refers to a material's resistance to changes in colour due to exposure to external factors. In the context of office plastics, this means ensuring that surfaces like desk tops, chair backs, and filing cabinets retain their original appearance without fading or becoming discoloured over time. This is particularly important for maintaining brand identity and customer satisfaction.
The testing method outlined in EN 15187 involves exposing a standardised specimen to various environmental conditions designed to simulate real-world usage scenarios. The test typically includes exposure to light, humidity, and mechanical abrasion. After the prescribed period, the change in colour of the specimen is measured using spectrophotometric techniques.
Specimen preparation for this testing method involves selecting a representative sample that accurately reflects the intended use of the product. For office plastics, this could mean cutting a piece of plastic similar to the surface area and thickness expected on an actual desk or chair. The sample must be prepared according to specific guidelines provided in EN 15187 to ensure consistent results.
The testing apparatus used for colour fastness testing includes spectrophotometers capable of measuring reflectance spectra, humidity chambers, and abrasion machines. These instruments are calibrated regularly to maintain accuracy and precision throughout the testing process. The data collected from these tests is then compared against baseline values to determine any changes in colour.
The acceptance criteria for this test are stringent to ensure that products meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. A specimen passes the EN 15187 test if it shows no significant change in colour after exposure to the specified environmental conditions. Significant change is typically defined as a shift greater than 2ΔE* between pre- and post-test measurements.
Understanding the importance of this standard helps quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams make informed decisions about selecting materials that will perform well in office settings. By adhering to EN 15187, manufacturers can ensure their products meet high standards of durability and appearance, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
This testing method is not only important for the plastics industry but also has broader implications for design and engineering practices. It highlights the need for a holistic approach in material selection that considers both functional performance and aesthetic considerations.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Environmental Exposure | Light, humidity, mechanical abrasion |
| Spectrophotometric Measurement | Reflectance spectra of the specimen |
| Calibration Frequency | Regularly to maintain accuracy and precision |
| Acceptance Criteria | No significant change in colour greater than 2ΔE* |
| Specimen Preparation | Description |
|---|---|
| Representative Sample | A piece of plastic similar to the surface area and thickness expected on an actual desk or chair |
| Calibration | To ensure consistent results across multiple tests |
| Data Collection | Comparison of pre- and post-test measurements using spectrophotometric techniques |
Why It Matters
The importance of colour fastness testing cannot be overstated, especially in the context of office plastics. Offices are environments where people spend a significant amount of time, and the aesthetic appeal of furniture can greatly influence user satisfaction and productivity.
- Promotes long-term durability: Ensures that surfaces do not fade or become discoloured over time.
- Enhances brand image: Maintains consistent appearance, which is crucial for branding and market positioning.
- Improves customer satisfaction: Products that meet high standards of colour fastness are more likely to retain their original look, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Supports sustainability goals: By using materials that resist fading, manufacturers can extend the life cycle of products, reducing waste and environmental impact.
In summary, EN 15187 colour fastness testing is a critical aspect of quality assurance in the plastics industry. It ensures that office furniture and fittings remain aesthetically pleasing and functional over time, contributing to a positive user experience and supporting broader sustainability goals.
Applied Standards
The European standard EN 15187 is one of several standards used in colour fastness testing. It specifies the procedures for determining the resistance of plastic surfaces to changes in colour caused by exposure to light, humidity, and mechanical abrasion.
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| EN 15187 | Procedure for determining the resistance of plastic surfaces to changes in colour caused by exposure to light, humidity and mechanical abrasion. |
| ISO 105-A02 | Determination of fastness to light (weathering) of textiles using xenon arc lamps. |
| ASTM D971 | Standard test methods for colorfastness of plastics by means of a disc method. |
The application of these standards ensures that testing is consistent and reliable, allowing for accurate comparison between different materials and products. Compliance with EN 15187 not only enhances the quality of office furniture but also provides a competitive edge in the market by ensuring high standards of product performance.
International Acceptance and Recognition
The European standard EN 15187 is widely recognized and accepted across various international markets. Its application extends beyond Europe to countries that value high-quality office furniture with a focus on durability and appearance.
- Australia: The Australian Standard AS/NZS 4439:2016 incorporates similar principles for assessing the colour fastness of plastic surfaces, ensuring compatibility with EN 15187.
- United States: Although not directly aligned with EN 15187, ASTM D971 can be used as a reference standard for similar tests in North America.
- Japan: The Japanese Industrial Standard JIS Z 9206:2013 provides guidelines that are compatible with the principles outlined in EN 15187.
The acceptance of EN 15187 in these and other international markets underscores its significance in establishing uniform quality standards for office plastics. This standardization ensures that products meet the same high-quality benchmarks regardless of where they are manufactured or sold, contributing to global trade and consumer trust.
