The surface of the raised floor
The components of the supporting structure are:
- pedestals serving to support the panels and convey loads to the supporting surface. They are normally made of galvanised steel, and have mechanical threading permitting adjustment of the height of the floor over the foundations (from 10 cm to 1 m) and compensation of even the slightest differences
in elevation in the supporting surface.
- crosspieces, also made of galvanised steel, horizontally linking the pedestals to improve their stability and increase their load-bearing capacity. Crosspieces may be of different lengths and their section may vary depending on the load requirements.
- seals installed along the entire length of crosspieces and on the heads of pedestals to keep out noise and dust.
Types of supporting structure of the raised floors
- Pedestal only structures
This is the simplest load-bearing structure, made up of pedestals only.
They are adjustable in height, though if no crosspieces are used, it is advisable to make sure the level is not too high. To increase the stability of the structure, the galvanised steel pedestals with bushes at their bases are anchored to the supporting surface by adhesives.
- Pedestal and crosspiece structure
This load-bearing structure is recommended
for moderate loads. Inclusion of crosspieces to form a regular supporting grid further increases the floor's load-bearing capacity.
The crosspieces are also made of galvanised, pressed steel and may have different sections, depending on the load-bearing capacity required of the floor. PVC seals are inserted above the crosspieces to form a continuous layer between the structure and the panel, making the system more airtight and soundproof.
- Pedestal, crosspiece and diagonal structure
This structure permits use of higher loads than the previous system as a diagonal crosspiece is added to contribute additional rigidity to the structure. Both crosspieces and diagonals can be changed at any time for others with a different degree of resistance.
Their special section permits them to be snapped together with the head, creating a rigid system guaranteeing electrical continuity.
They have slots permitting mechanical anchorage to the head by vertical self-tapping screws. The crosspieces also have an antistatic, conductive PVC seal to make the system airtight and soundproof.
- Exterior structures
The raised flooring system prevents infiltration, temperature excursions and layering under the finish in exterior constructions.
In this system the modular panels rest on special supports which raise them above the underlying waterproofing sheath.
Supports may be fixed or adjustable and are made of polypropylene,
a material capable of resisting all climatic conditions for prolonged periods.
They may be used to lay panels over any flat supporting surface and guarantee better division of the load over the underlying layer thanks to the larger base surface area, with a rounded tear-proof edge. They cannot be compressed, guaranteeing their ability to support high, concentrated loads.
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