Technical Guides
How to read a film faced plywood Technical Data Sheet
Film weight, glue system, bond class, density and EN test methods: what each TDS line means for formwork buyers.
· 6 min read · Best Plywood Supply
Start with construction, not adjectives
A useful TDS defines the panel's construction: core species, film type and weight, glue system and edge treatment. Words like “high quality” or “marine” mean nothing without these values.
Film weight (g/m²)
Film weight is the mass of resin-impregnated paper per square metre on each face. Heavier film gives a thicker, more durable casting surface. Across the Kosmex range the TDS declares 120 g/m² (Common), 130 g/m² (Medium), 145 g/m² (Premium) and 180–240 g/m² (Anti-slip).
Glue system and bond class
MUF (melamine-urea-formaldehyde) and PF (phenol-formaldehyde) glues behave differently under boiling and cyclic wetting. EN 314-2 defines bonding classes 1, 2 and 3. Class 3 is intended for exterior conditions. Always check which test the bond class is based on, and whether a report exists.
Physical properties and their EN methods
- Density: EN 323
- Moisture content: EN 322
- Dimensions and tolerances: EN 315
- Bending strength and modulus of elasticity: EN 310
- Bond quality: EN 314-1 / EN 314-2
Declared vs. tested
A TDS is a manufacturer declaration. A laboratory test report covers one tested sample, under a named method, on a stated date. For example, the Kosmex 18 mm EN 310 bending result (T&T Laboratory 06/MCI.AHK/IV/25) supports the bending values declared for the Premium grade. Ask your supplier which declared values are backed by reports.