What is EN 46006 ?

EN 46094 is a technical standard that sets requirements for testing the durability of furniture. It is a widely recognized European standard used to assess the quality and lifespan of furniture products. In this article, we will delve into the details of what EN 46094 entails and why it is important in the furniture industry.

The Purpose of EN 46094

The primary purpose of EN 46094 is to evaluate the performance and durability of furniture under normal use conditions. This standard outlines the test methods and criteria that should be used to assess different types of furniture, including chairs, tables, sofas, and beds. By subjecting furniture to rigorous testing, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet the necessary quality standards and provide consumers with long-lasting and reliable furniture pieces.

The Testing Process

EN 46094 specifies a series of tests that manufacturers must conduct to verify the durability of their products. These tests typically include the following:

Immersion Test: This test involves immersed testing, where the furniture is submerged in water or a saltwater solution for a period of 24 hours. This test is designed to simulate real-world use conditions and assess the product's resistance to damage caused by water or salt.

Retrospective Test: This test involves taking the product out of service and assessing its condition. This test is used to determine whether the product has been affected by use or aging.

Durability Test: This test involves subjecting the product to a series of stress tests, such as bending, twisting, and weight loading, to assess its resistance to damage.

Tensile Test: This test involves the product to determine its strength and resistance to tearing or breaking.

Impact Test: This test involves hitting the product with a ball or other object to assess its resistance to damage from impact.

The Scope of EN 46094

EN 46094 is not a standard for general furniture production, but rather a standard for testing the durability of furniture. It is not applicable to all types of furniture, and manufacturers may choose to conduct additional testing beyond what is required by EN 46094.

The Key Requirements of EN 46094

EN 46094 outlines a series of requirements for testing the durability of furniture. These key requirements include:

The tests must be conducted in a controlled environment that simulates real-world use conditions.

The tests must be conducted for a minimum of 24 hours.

The tests must be conducted with the product in its normal service environment.

The tests must be conducted at the manufacturer's premises.

The tests must be conducted by an independent notified body.

The tests must be documented, including the results of each test and any deviations from the requirements.

Conclusion

EN 46094 is an important technical standard that provides guidelines for manufacturers to ensure that their furniture products are durable and meet the necessary quality standards. By subjecting their products to rigorous testing, manufacturers can ensure that their products are reliable and long-lasting, providing consumers with quality furniture pieces that they can count on for years to come.