Better Hygiene
Tests by the Food Hygiene Dept. of CCFRA Technology aimed to establish:- the water absorption of standard grout versus welded Altro and
- suitability for use in food preparation areas. The results demonstrate that Altro is impervious to water and compliant with the European Directive on the Hygiene of Foodstuffs (93/43/EEC). But, standard grout absorbs water and is non-compliant with the European Directive – absorbing any oil, germs or staining contained in the water. This not only leads to unsightly discolouration, but also demands a strict cleaning regime with an acidic agent. Altro products contain Altrosan which helps fight potentially deadly bacteria such as MRSA and VRE.'
Better Impact Resistance
In busy locations like kitchens knocks to walls from trolleys, pots and pans etc. are common. Glazed ceramic tiles are easily scratched, chipped and cracked by these impacts. The surface damage is then prone to infiltration by water, stains and bacteria. Altro has a far higher impact resistance than ceramics and does not rely on a glazed surface for its water or stain resistance.
When it comes to corners in particular, tiles are very vulnerable to damage. In fact many ceramic tile manufacturers recommend steel edge trims are applied to all exposed corners and tiling edges. Once again, Altro delivers the solution with robust corners thermoformed in situ.
The Impact Tests
These ‘drop’ tests were conducted using a 322g steel ball (BSEN 438) which was released from various heights on to both a ceramic and Altro surface (flat face, joint, edge and corner).Longer Wear
Tests using the Taber Abrasion accelerated wear test method prove that Altro flooring lasts longer than many ceramic tiles. The unique construction of Altro safety flooring ensures lifelong slip resistance. Under normal conditions, product life of 20 years is not uncommon.'
