RAISED FLOOR

This property depends on the size and substructure of the molecular particles. The wood particles that make up the wood composite absorb much more moisture and water compared to calcium sulfate. The X-FLOOR, on the other hand, is completely non-absorbent.

Noise reduction capacity refers to the ability to interrupt the frequency of sounds transmitted through materials.
Note: The noise reduction capacity is strongly influenced by the type of horizontal structure (slab) on which the raised floor will be installed.

Calcium sulphate has good noise reduction capacity due to its compact and homogeneous structure. The wood composite, despite having roughly half the density of calcium sulphate, provides slightly better noise reduction thanks to its physical composition. Finally, X-FLOOR falls in an intermediate position between the two.

It should be noted that the potential for resonance effects in a raised floor is closely related to the morphology and structural characteristics of the building itself. Very large rooms, absence of subfloor partitions, and the presence of ventilation grilles are all conditions that can create an unpleasant subfloor resonance effect, turning it into a “resonance chamber” for noise generated by foot traffic and other sources.

Thanks to their ability to resist bending even under significant loads, panels with a calcium sulfate core and X-FLOOR provide excellent walking comfort, giving the sensation of walking on a surface closely adhering to the ground. In contrast, under the same load, wood composite panels exhibit greater flexibility and elasticity.

Reaction to fire refers to the degree to which a combustible material contributes to a fire when exposed to it. Fire resistance is the ability of a building element (component or structure) to maintain, for a specified period, the required stability, integrity, and/or thermal insulation. Calcium sulphate is composed of mineral materials that are heat-inert, meaning they do not contribute to combustion; the same applies to X-FLOOR, which is made from an atomized mixture of clays, kaolins, and feldspars. The particleboard core, however, being made of wood composite and resin-based binders, does contribute to combustion.

Sealed raised floors have been designed for situations where liquid infiltration into the plenum is likely and it is necessary to keep it dry (bathrooms, laboratories, healthcare facilities, kitchens, etc.). If access to the plenum is required, the seal can be removed and reapplied afterwards.

Conductive raised floors are required in environments where delicate electronic equipment is in operation and electrostatic shocks must be avoided (laboratories, computer rooms, cleanrooms, etc.).

The panel can have a core of variable thickness made of calcium sulphate or wood composite, with a lower layer of aluminum sheet, steel tray, or galvanized steel plate, and an upper finish chosen from PVC, rubber, or linoleum. It is essential that the upper finish possesses conductive properties, as well as the adhesive used for the upper finish and the lower layer.

Additionally, it is recommended to provide electrical bridges on at least two sides of the panel (preferably opposite sides). These are cuts from the top edge to the bottom edge of the core, approximately 25 mm deep and 3 mm thick, into which a conductive graphite-based compound is poured. This ensures electrical connection between the upper and lower finishes.

Finally, the structure must be metallic, with conductive gaskets on the columns and crossbars to allow the dissipation of electrostatic charges.