BS EN 13373 describes methods for verifying the geometric characteristics of products of natural stone such as rough blocks, rough slabs, finished products for cladding, flooring, stairs and modular tiles, and paving units (slabs, setts, and kerbs). These methods can be applied in the case of a dispute between two parties, they are not compulsory for production control. Other measuring equipment can be used if their precision can be demonstrated to be equal or better than the ones mentioned here.
It is essential that all weighing, measuring and testing equipment are calibrated or retraceable to measurement standards and regularly inspected according to documented procedures, frequencies, and criteria. It is important that the expression of the dimensional characteristics is in accordance with the appropriate class of the measured product.
BS EN 13373 on geometric characteristics of natural stone is useful for:
Natural stone testing evaluates the suitability of a specific stone for a particular application like for construction purposes. BS EN 13373 gives test methods for verifying the geometric characteristics of products of natural stone.
BS EN 13373 gives a measurement procedure of the gross dimensions of squared rough blocks and rough slabs along with the thickness and surface irregularities of finished products with sawn edges, cleft / riven/hewn edges. BS EN 13373 provides the measurement of the geometrical characteristics like the depth, position, diameter, and inclination of fixing holes of slabs for cladding.
Overall, these test methods help in knowing the characteristics of natural stone to ensure the strength, density, absorption rate, and resistance power which are crucial in stairs and flooring applications.
BS EN 13373:2020 supersedes BS EN 13373:2003. BS EN 13373:2020 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 13373:2003. These include:
EN 13373