The End-Use Approach to Particle Board Standards

Standards for the particle board industry can be developed in two ways: 1) the “end-use concept” in which the purchaser is offered boards designated for various fields of application; and 2) the “type” or “class” standard which defines types of board by physical and mechanical qualifications. A case for the “end-use approach” is presented in this article. Starting from a “minimum” board and ascending, a suggested system would be: 1) Utility Grade–any particle board not qualified for the more definitive “use” grades, 2) Interior-Grade, non-structural–having same physical properties but lower range of mechanical properties than structural grade, 3) Interior-Grade, structural–high standard of mechanical properties and adequate physical properties for indoor use, 4) Exposure-Grade, structural–for use in severe end-use applications whether completely exposed exterior, sheltered exterior, or interior use associated with severe degrading influences. These “end use” standards are suited particularly to the needs of this industry because they provide: 1) uncomplicated selection of a proper board for a specific application, 2) customer orientation, 3) a system that permits uninformed purchaser and seller simple selection of the right board category, 4) maximum three shift, sustained production which is directly related to an expanding particle board market.

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