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What is OSB?
OSB, or Oriented Strand Board, is a type of panel material made up of different layers of wood strands of a predetermined shape and thickness, bonded together with an adhesive. This material is widely used in construction due to its strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Description
In English, OSB is often described as a "panel made from oriented wood strands." The strands in the outer layers are aligned parallel to the length of the panel, while those in the inner layer are randomly scattered or oriented perpendicular to the length. OSB distinguishes itself from its predecessor, waferboard, because the strands in waferboard are not oriented.
Advantages of OSB over Plywood
- Cost: Thick, rollable logs are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. Plywood requires twice as much energy to manufacture as OSB.
- Efficiency: The production process of plywood has a relatively low yield (30-35%) compared to OSB (80-90%). A higher yield means that more panel material can be produced from a given amount of wood, which is more environmentally friendly.
- Applications: OSB is increasingly used as an underlayment for laminate flooring, thus replacing traditional plywood panels.
Grades
According to the NEN-EN 300 standard, there are different classes of OSB, each suitable for specific applications:
- OSB/1: For general use in dry conditions, primarily decorative applications.
- OSB/2: For load-bearing constructions in dry conditions.
- OSB/3: For load-bearing constructions in humid conditions.
- OSB/4: For heavy load-bearing constructions in dry or humid conditions.
Especially OSB/2 and OSB/3 are sold in the Belgian market.
Environmental Aspects
OSB panels are made from thinning wood, and very little waste is produced during manufacturing. The minimal waste generated is used as fuel or in horticulture. While particle boards contain 7 to 9% glue, OSB uses less glue due to the larger strands. Most OSB panels meet the E1 standard for formaldehyde emissions, with values between 6.5 and 8 mg/100g according to the EN 120 standard.
History
- 1949: In Canada, D'Arcy Clark experiments with reducing glue use in particle board production by using larger chips.
- 1950: First pilot plant produces waferboard panels measuring 122 by 122 cm.
- 1955: First commercial waferboard production unit is launched.
- 1981: New technologies lead to the development of OSB panels in the United States.
- 1985: The first European OSB factory (Sterling board) opens in Scotland.
- 1986: The first OSB factory on the European mainland opens in France.
- 1992-1996: OSB production grows significantly in North America and Europe.
OSB versus Underlayment Panels
OSB
OSB is made up of different layers of wood strands and is primarily used for structural applications such as roof, floor, or wall constructions. It is strong, lightweight, and durable. OSB/3 is more resistant to moisture and suitable for limited damp conditions and sheltered outdoor use.
Underlayment
Underlayment is a construction panel often used for visible work due to its aesthetic appearance. There are different types of Underlayment, such as Pellos Underlayment (high quality) and Elliottis Pine Underlayment (affordable).
| Feature | OSB | Underlayment |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Layered wood strands | Various types, often more aesthetic |
| Use | Structural use, roof, floor, wall constructions | Visible work, various constructions |
| Moisture Resistance | OSB/3 suitable for limited damp conditions | Depends on the type, less moisture resistant |
| Strength | Very strong, suitable for construction | As strong as OSB |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | More expensive due to appearance |
Applications of OSB
OSB is widely used in construction due to its versatility and strength. Some applications include:
- Roof Constructions: OSB is strong and stable, ideal for roofing.
- Floor Constructions: OSB is often used as an underlayment for laminate or parquet.
- Wall Constructions: OSB provides structural integrity for interior and exterior walls.
- Furniture Construction: Although less common, OSB can be used for robust furniture.
Conclusion
OSB is a versatile, strong, and cost-effective panel material that offers many advantages over traditional plywood panels. The high yield of production, lower costs, and environmentally friendly properties make OSB an attractive choice for a wide range of construction and building applications. Although its appearance is less suitable for visible work, OSB provides excellent performance for structural applications.