OSB-oriented strand board is a structural sheet construction and finishing material made of thin wood chips and water-resistant synthetic resin. The plate consists of several layers that have different orientations (in the internal transverse, external longitudinal). This structure allows you to achieve the highest strength indicators. Ready-made OSB structures are light in weight, but they can withstand heavy loads. OSB boards have good performance characteristics, they are resistant to temperature and humidity changes, they are resistant to delamination and swelling. OSB is perfectly processed by any tool for working from wood and has a lower cost compared to other structural materials. Experts have high hopes for SWAPS and predict a great future. The production of oriented chipboard composite materials is considered one of the most promising areas.
OSB creation History
OSB sheets were developed in Canada in the late 70s of the last century, during the era of active development of frame construction. The first factory that started mass production of oriented particle boards appeared in 1982. Strength characteristics and low cost quickly made OSB one of the most popular building materials. With the introduction of the first factory in Canada, OSB’s manufacturing technology has generated widespread interest around the world. Already in the mid-80s of the last century, the first factories in Europe began to operate. In recent years, the so-called “Canadian” construction technology has been rapidly gaining popularity in Russia, and therefore the demand for OSB plate is constantly growing. In 2013, the Kalevala plant was opened in Petrozavodsk (Karelia)-the first large plant in Russia for the production of oriented particle boards.
Properties and technical characteristics of SWAPS
- Standard sheet sizes: 1220×2440, 2500×1250;
- Sheet thickness: 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 22 mm;
- Moisture content: less than 13%;
- Material density: 640-700 kg / m3;
- Longitudinal bending strength: not less than 29 MPa;
- Transverse bending strength: not less than 12.4 MPa;
- Swelling in thickness after 24-hour soaking: no more than 15%;
- Nail holding capacity: high;
- Painting: the slab can be painted with any paint and varnish materials recommended for wood;
- Glueability: OSBs can be bonded with any adhesive compositions recommended for wood;
- Mechanical holding capacity: very high;
- Fire resistance: OSB boards belong to the G4 combustibility group
Advantages and disadvantages of the material
The main advantages of OSB boards are:
- High resistance to longitudinal and transverse deformation, which allows the use of OSB for the construction of temporary and capital buildings;
- Moisture resistance. Plates practically do not swell from moisture, differ in stability of geometrical characteristics;
- Light weight. For the construction of buildings using frame technology, a tape or pile foundation is sufficient;
- Environmental safety. OSB is free of harmful formaldehydes and other potentially hazardous components. Board manufacturers use binders based on polyurethane resins;
- Good thermal and sound insulation;
- Versatility. Plates are used both for the manufacture of SIP panels for frame construction, and for internal roughing of residential and non-residential premises;
- Easy handling – the slab can be sawed, drilled, nailed, sanded, planed, glued, painted;
- Low price
Among the disadvantages of OSB, it is possible to note a high percentage of swelling of sheets during prolonged direct contact with water, low fire resistance and a tendency to bio-contamination in the absence of additional treatment.
Scope of OSP application
OSB boards are widely used. They are used for the manufacture of SIP panels, wall paneling, and rough floor arrangement. Excellent sound absorption, high rigidity of the finished structure, as well as the ability to withstand significant snow and wind loads make it possible to successfully use OSB for continuous patching of the roof under soft tiles. OSB-plate can also be used repeatedly as a removable concrete formwork. OSB is an excellent material for manufacturing high-quality packaging for expensive equipment.