The Armstrong Excelon Static Dissipative Tile (SDT) is a specialized flooring solution designed for environments where electrostatic discharge (ESD) control is critical. This guide outlines the step-by-step installation process for Excelon SDT, including material specifications, adhesive application, grounding procedures, and post-installation considerations. The information is derived from official Armstrong Flooring documentation and technical specifications, ensuring accuracy and compliance with recommended best practices.
Introduction
The Armstrong Excelon Static Dissipative Tile (SDT) is a 0.125-inch (3.2 mm) thick, 12-inch by 12-inch (30.5 cm x 30.5 cm) vinyl composite tile designed for use in environments where static control is essential, such as clean rooms, data centers, and electronics manufacturing facilities. The installation requires the use of S-202 adhesive, which is specifically formulated to support static dissipation and bonding properties. Proper installation is critical to ensure both the functional performance and aesthetic quality of the flooring.
This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to installing Armstrong Excelon SDT, emphasizing safety, grounding, and adherence to technical specifications. It is intended for use by professional contractors, IT professionals, and qualified DIY users who are familiar with commercial flooring installation practices.
Pre-Installation Planning and Budgeting
Before beginning the installation of Armstrong Excelon SDT, it is essential to plan thoroughly. This includes evaluating the project scope, preparing a budget, and determining whether to proceed with a DIY approach or hire a professional installer.
Budget Considerations
The total cost of an SDT installation extends beyond the tile and adhesive. Additional expenses should be factored in, including:
- Removal and disposal of the existing floor.
- Subfloor preparation, which may involve repairs or adjustments.
- Tools and materials, such as a utility knife, carpenter’s square, and a 100-lb. roller.
- Moving furniture out of the installation area.
It is important to create an accurate budget to avoid unexpected costs and ensure the project is completed on time and within financial constraints.
DIY or Professional Installation
Vinyl tile installations, including SDT, can be completed by DIY users with minimal experience. The process is relatively straightforward and does not require specialized tools. However, for larger or more complex projects, or where electrical certification is required, it is advisable to hire a professional installer.
Armstrong Flooring offers a network of Certified Installers who are trained in the specific requirements of Armstrong products. These professionals ensure that the installation is not only visually appealing but also functionally compliant with static dissipation standards.
Preparation for Installation
Proper preparation is key to a successful SDT installation. This includes reviewing installation instructions, preparing the room, and acclimating the materials to the installation environment.
Review Installation Instructions
Before beginning work, it is essential to carefully review the detailed installation instructions provided by Armstrong. These instructions outline the materials required, installation techniques, and any special considerations that may apply to the project.
Room and Subfloor Preparation
The room must be cleared of all furniture and old flooring. Any wall base, millwork, or trim that will be reused should be carefully removed. The subfloor must be dry, clean, and flat. If repairs are needed, such as filling cracks or leveling uneven surfaces, these should be completed before proceeding with tile installation.
Material and Tool Preparation
The necessary tools for installing Armstrong Excelon SDT include:
- Utility knife for cutting tile and copper strips.
- Carpenter’s square for ensuring accurate measurements.
- 100-lb. roller for compacting the adhesive and tile.
- Trowel for applying the adhesive.
- Clean white cloths and mineral spirits for cleaning adhesive residue.
All tools should be gathered and organized before beginning the installation process.
Acclimation of Materials
To ensure compatibility with the installation environment, the flooring materials must be acclimated for 48 hours at room temperature. This allows the materials to adjust to the humidity and temperature of the room, reducing the risk of warping, shrinking, or expansion after installation.
Adhesive Application and Tile Installation
The installation process involves applying the S-202 adhesive, laying the tile, and ensuring proper grounding of the copper strips. The adhesive is water-based and contains a small amount of quaternary ammonium compound, which may cause skin or eye irritation. Protective measures should be taken to avoid direct contact.
Adhesive Specifications and Application
The S-202 adhesive is specifically formulated for use with Armstrong Excelon SDT. Key specifications include:
- Internal Relative Humidity (RH): Effective October 2024: 90%; prior to October 2024: 75%.
- MVER: 3 lbs. per 1000 ft² / 24 hours.
- pH: Not specified in the provided documentation.
- Open Time: 60 minutes or more.
- Working Time: 6 hours.
- Traffic Post-Installation: Light foot traffic: 24 hours; heavy traffic and rolling loads: 72 hours.
The adhesive should be applied using a fine-notch trowel (1/32” deep, 1/16” wide, 5/64” apart). Care must be taken to avoid covering chalk lines, which are used to guide the tile layout.
After application, the adhesive must be allowed to dry to the touch. A simple test is to press a thumb lightly on the adhesive surface. If it feels slightly tacky and does not stick to the thumb, the adhesive is ready for tile installation.
Tile Layout and Fitting
Before installing the tile, a layout plan should be developed. The layout should ensure that tile joints are at least 6 inches (15.2 cm) away from subfloor or underlayment joints. Tile should not be installed over expansion joints, and border pieces should be at least 6 inches wide to avoid uneven appearance.
When using tile from multiple cartons, it is important to check that all pattern and lot numbers match to ensure color consistency. On larger installations, mixing tiles from different cartons can help blend any slight shade differences.
The installation should begin by lining off the entire area with chalk lines. The field area should be laid first, followed by the border tiles. Tiles should be cut as needed to fit around obstacles and irregularities in the room.
Copper Grounding Strips
Grounding is a critical component of the Excelon SDT installation. Copper strips (0.003” thick) are supplied with the S-202 adhesive and must be installed according to the following guidelines:
- Cutting and Placement: Copper strips should be cut into 2-foot (60.96 cm) lengths. One grounding strip is recommended for every 1000 square feet (92.9 m²) of tile installed over on-grade concrete, and for every 500 square feet (46.45 m²) on suspended subfloors. Additional strips may be requested by the end-user or general contractor.
- Installation Technique: In the designated grounding strip locations, 18 inches (45.7 cm) of the copper strip should be placed over the dry-to-touch adhesive on the subfloor. The remaining 6 inches (15.2 cm) should extend up the wall. Additional S-202 adhesive should be applied over the copper strip on the floor, and the tile should be installed over the strip.
Grounding should be performed by a qualified electrician, as the flooring contractor is not responsible for grounding the copper strips. The end-user must ensure that the grounding method meets applicable code requirements. Grounding can be connected to either an earth ground or an electrical ground.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
After the tile has been installed and the adhesive has fully cured, certain maintenance procedures must be followed to ensure the long-term performance and safety of the flooring.
Traffic and Drying Time
To allow the adhesive to set and dry properly, heavy traffic, rolling loads, or foot traffic should be avoided for at least 72 hours after installation. Light foot traffic may be permitted after 24 hours.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Armstrong recommends using only S-392 Static Dissipative Tile Polish for the initial and ongoing maintenance of Excelon SDT. This polish is specifically designed to maintain the static dissipation properties of the tile and should not be replaced with other products.
It is important to follow the cleaning instructions carefully. Adhesive residue can be removed using a clean white cloth dampened with mineral spirits. The flooring should be rolled in both directions with a 100-lb. roller within the adhesive’s 6-hour working time to ensure proper adhesion and compaction.
Grounding and Electrical Certification
If electrical certification is required, no maintenance procedures or grounding connections should be made until the installation has been certified. This includes connecting the copper grounding strips. The responsibility for grounding lies with the end-user and/or electrician, who must ensure that the grounding method complies with local codes and regulations.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Despite careful preparation, certain issues may arise during or after the installation of Armstrong Excelon SDT. Understanding these potential problems can help prevent delays and ensure a successful outcome.
Adhesive Issues
If the adhesive does not dry properly or if the tile becomes loose, it may be due to improper application or environmental conditions. It is essential to ensure that the adhesive is applied according to the manufacturer’s specifications and that the room is at the correct temperature and humidity during and after installation.
Grounding Failures
If the grounding system does not function as expected, it may be due to incorrect placement of copper strips, poor electrical connections, or failure to meet local code requirements. Grounding should be verified by an electrician after installation and before the system is put into use.
Tile Shrinkage or Warping
If the tile begins to shrink, warp, or curl after installation, it may indicate that the materials were not properly acclimated before installation. It is important to allow the tile to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before proceeding with the installation.
Conclusion
The Armstrong Excelon Static Dissipative Tile is a high-performance flooring solution designed for environments where static control is essential. Proper installation requires careful planning, adherence to technical specifications, and attention to grounding procedures. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, contractors and DIY users can ensure that the flooring not only meets functional requirements but also maintains a professional appearance.
Installation should be approached with a clear understanding of the adhesive properties, copper strip placement, and post-installation maintenance. Whether the project is completed by a professional or a qualified individual, compliance with Armstrong’s guidelines is essential to achieving optimal results.
For those requiring additional guidance or support during the installation process, Armstrong Flooring offers a network of certified installers and customer service representatives who can provide assistance and ensure the success of the project.