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IS 1658:2006 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for fibre hardboards - specification. This standard specifies the requirements, grades, and testing methods for fibre hardboards (standard, tempered, and medium) primarily used for interior paneling, partitioning, and furniture manufacturing.
Lays down the requirements for fibre hardboards, including their classification, dimensions, physical properties, and testing methods.
! Hardboards are highly susceptible to moisture and swelling; edges should be properly sealed if used in potentially damp interior areas.
! Tempered hardboards undergo special treatment with drying oils or resins to improve strength and water resistance, making them better suited for heavier applications.
! Always refer to IS 2380 for the specific testing procedures (moisture content, density, bending strength) referenced in this code.
Focuses exclusively on wet-processed fibreboard (hardboard), which is one of the manufacturing processes covered by IS 1658.
Key Differences
≠IS 1658:2006 classifies hardboards into Standard (S), Tempered (T), and Medium Density (M) types, whereas EN 622-2 uses a more application-focused classification such as HB (General purpose), HBH (Humid conditions), and HBLA (Load-bearing).
≠IS 1658 does not have mandatory formaldehyde emission classes (like E1/E2), only mentioning the board should be free from 'obnoxious smell'. In contrast, EN standards mandate compliance with specific formaldehyde emission limits tested via methods like EN 120.
≠The minimum density requirement differs. IS 1658 defines standard hardboard as having a density over 800 kg/m³, while EN 622-2 defines hardboard as having a density of 900 kg/m³ or greater.
≠Thickness tolerance in IS 1658 is specified as a percentage (±10%), which can lead to large variations in thicker boards. EN 622-2 specifies absolute tolerances (e.g., ±0.3 mm for boards 2.5-6.5 mm thick), providing tighter control.
Key Similarities
≈Both IS 1658 and equivalent international standards define hardboard as a high-density panel made from lignocellulosic fibres consolidated under high temperature and pressure.
≈All standards mandate testing of core mechanical properties, including Modulus of Rupture (Bending Strength), to ensure structural integrity.
≈Physical properties related to moisture resistance, such as Water Absorption and Thickness Swelling after water immersion, are key parameters specified in both IS 1658 and its international counterparts.
≈All standards specify requirements for dimensional stability, including tolerances for length, width, squareness, and edge straightness to ensure panel quality and usability.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Density (Standard Hardboard)
> 800 kg/m³
≥ 900 kg/m³ (for Type HB)
EN 622-2:2004
Modulus of Rupture (MOR) for Standard Board, 3-6mm
≥ 35 MPa (Grade 1)
≥ 35 MPa (for Type HB, 4.5-6.5mm thick)
EN 622-2:2004
Water Absorption (24h) for Standard Board, 3-6mm
≤ 30% (Grade 1)
≤ 22% (for Type HB, 4.5-6.5mm thick)
EN 622-2:2004
Thickness Swelling (24h) for Standard Board, 3-6mm
≤ 20% (Grade 1)
≤ 15% (for Type HB, 4.5-6.5mm thick)
EN 622-2:2004
Moisture Content
4% to 9%
4% to 11% (for Type HB)
EN 622-2:2004
Thickness Tolerance (on 4mm board)
± 0.4 mm (±10%)
± 0.3 mm
EN 622-2:2004
Formaldehyde Content/Emission
Not specified (general requirement for 'no obnoxious smell')
Must meet Class E1 (≤ 3.5 mg/m²h) or E2 as per EN 717-1 chamber test
EN 622-1:2003
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values7
Quick Reference Values
moisture content range5 to 11 %
density standard hardboard>= 800 kg/m3
density tempered hardboard>= 900 kg/m3
density medium hardboard350 to 800 kg/m3
standard thicknesses3, 4.5, 6, 9, 12 mm
tolerance thickness upto 6mm± 0.3 mm
max water absorption 24h standard 3mm30 %
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Standard Dimensions of Hardboards
Table 2 - Physical and Mechanical Properties of Hardboards