Silka Large Format Blocks 0608

SILKA calcium silicate
elements
A.2R.C / BPI / De Wael / BPC
Together, we can face any

construction challenge
Calcium silicate products are the
number of production locations and
slogan: "Building? With SILKA naturally!"
building material of the future.
its own facilities for market research
A slogan with a clear message: SILKA
Certainly if they bear the signature of
and product development.
calcium silicate elements are an
Xella, a firm with more than half a
The synergy within the concern
excellent building material with a
century of experience behind it.
enables Xella to convert the require-
particularly low environmental load.
Xella has a clear mission: to build
ments in the building world rapidly
But exactly how "natural" are SILKA
reliably by using innovative products
and flexibly to specific, efficient and
elements? And how do they relate to
and services. Craftsmen who give of
cost-saving building solutions.
sustainable building? These are the
their best to achieve guaranteed
Better building with fewer costs?
important questions that will be
quality and provide outstanding
Xella is ready for that!
addressed extensively in this brochure.
service. Xella possesses a large
Many in the building world know the
SILKA Calcium Silicate Elements
Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1
Calcium silicate, environmentally friendly products
1.2
Production process
1.3
Use of SILKA blocks
1.4
SILKA calcium silicate elements
1.5
Clamping devices and dowels
Chapter 2 Construction methods
2.1
Ordering and delivery procedure
2.2
On-site instructions
11
2.3
Materials and tools
12
2.4
Constructing
14
2.4.1 Work sequence
14
2.4.2 Profile adjustment
14
2.4.3 Kicker course construction
14
2.4.4 Distribution plan
15
2.4.5 Setting up the crane
15
2.4.6 Thin joint mortar - Silkafix
15
2.4.7 Erecting walls
16
2.4.8 Scaffold work and shoring
16
Chapter 3 Anchoring SILKA elements

3.1
18
Wall ties
18
3.1.1 Coupling strips
19
3.1.2 Wall anchors
19
3.1.3 Cavity wall anchors
20
3.1.4 Railing anchors
20
3.1.5 Edge formwork anchors
21
3.1.6 Fusible anchors
21
3.2
Purlins
21
Chapter 4 Working in summer and winter
22
4.1
Working in summer
22
4.2
Working in winter
22
Chapter 5 Movement joints
24
5.1
Movement joint advice
24
5.2
Movement joints
26
5.3
Controlling movement joints
26
5.4
Finishing movement joints
27
Chapter 6 Connecting inner cavity walls to boundary walls

6.1
Partitioning wall
6.1.1 SILKA elements in inner leaf of cavity walls
28
29
29
6.1.2 SILKA blocks in inner leaf of cavity walls
29
6.2
29
Lintels and frame connections
Chapter 7 Wall finishing &projects

7.1
30
Thin plastering
30
7.2
Tile-work
30
7.3
Multi-storey buildings,commercial, office

and industrial buildings
Chapter 8 Product information SILKA calcium silicate elements
31
32
Chapter 1
Introduction
The natural components of SILKA elements are sand
and lime. Both raw materials are available in an almost
unlimited supply. However, the requirements for this
type of sand are less stringent than they are for many
other applications.
1.2 Production process
autoclave for hardening. This is done
elements, environmentally
The modern production process starts
by means of steam under high
friendly products:
with the fully automated measuring
pressure, to obtain the end product.
SILKA blocks and elements consist
and mixing of quicklime, sand and
The SILKA block made in this
mainly of sand (93 %) the remaining
water. This mixture is placed in a
manner does not have any of the
component being lime (7 %). This
reactor, where the quicklime is
qualities of the original raw materials
sand is usually extracted quite close
turned into slaked lime within a few
of sand and quicklime, but consists of
to the production facilities.
hours.This mixture now called
grains of sand that have been bonded
After extraction, redesign and
mortar is transported to the press,
together through calcium silicate
development of the quarried area
where it is processed into unfired
hydrate bonds.
is undertaken.
brick, which is then placed in an
1.1 Calcium silicate blocks and
<#>
4
water
lime
sand
mixing
measuring
reactor
slaking
water
autoclave
press
mixing
hardening
moulding
1.3 Use of SILKA blocks
elements. SILKA elements are the
SILKA blocks can be used on a large
subject of this brochure.
and varied range of projects including
Advantages of calcium silicate are,
house-building, commercial and
among others, good sound insulation
industrial buildings, renovation and
(due to a high volume weight /mass),
agricultural buildings. Blocks are
substantial heat accumulation ability,
predominantly used for foundations,
considerable load-bearing capacity
cellars, load-bearing and non load-
and high fire resistance.
bearing internal walls as well as
The breathing qualities of SILKA
external walls. Xella produces a
blocks are extremely suited to good
large range of SILKA products inclu-
moisture regulation thus contributing
ding blocks, chamfered blocks and
to a pleasant living environment.
<#>
5
1.4 SILKA calcium silicate elements

The elements come in various
thicknesses with a working length of
1000 mm and in heights of 545 mm
and 645 mm. SILKA is a lime-sand
product, with a very smooth finish,
capable of delivering significant onsite time and money savings upon
completion.
Overview of SILKA calcium silicate elements

Nominal thickness
E100/543
E150/543
E175/543
E214/543 E240/543* E300/543
Nominal length x height in mm
997 x 543
997 x 543
997 x 543
997 x 543
Working length x height in mm
1000 x 545 1000 x 545 1000 x 545 1000 x 545 1000 x 545 1000 x 545
997 x 543
997 x 543
Working thickness in mm
100
150
175
214
240
300
Number per m2
1.85
1.85
1.85
1.85
1.85
1.85
Maximum dimensional tolerance
84.74
142.11
165.79
202.74
227.37
284.22
25
25
25
25
25
Nominal thickness
E100/643
E150/643
E175/643
E214/643 E240/643* E300/643
Nominal length x height in mm
997 x 643
997 x 643
997 x 643
997 x 643
Working length x height in mm
1000 x 645 1000 x 645 1000 x 645 1000 x 645 1000 x 645 1000 x 645
Weight per element in kg

Normalized mean compressive
strenght fb in N/mm2
25
* On request
997 x 643
997 x 643
Working thickness in mm
100
150
175
214
240
300
Number per m2
1.56
1.56
1.56
1.56
1.56
1.56
Maximum dimensional tolerance

Weight per element in kg
112.19
168.28
196.33
240.08
269.25
336.56
25
25
25
25
25
Normalized mean compressive

strenght fb in N/mm2
25
Remark:
The SILKA elements are not suitable for application in the external leaf of a cavity wall and are also not
intended for facework masonry application.
* On request
1.5 Clamping devices and dowels

At the top end of each SILKA-element
there are 2 holes, every 500 mm,
for mechanical lifting and for dowel
placement.
Dowels
In the system, dowels are used for
simplifying the exact placement of the
SILKA elements and to prevent them
from floating. The dowels are manufactured from recyclable synthetic
material (polypropylene); the blue
colour is obtained by adding a
cadmium-free colouring agent.
A maximum of 1,85 dowels (1 per
whole element) is needed per m2.
Chapter 2
Construction methods
SILKA walls are composed of standard
Walls are constructed using
elements and cut-to-size blocks in
approved wall drawings. The kicker
thin joint mortar of traditional

composition.
course consists of smaller calcium
a crane and useful tools

(lump hammer, cold chisel, etc.)
accordance with the previously
silicate blocks (standard heights
With this building method, even smooth
70, 85, 100, 115, 130, 145 and 160 mm).
walls can be obtained, which are
This allows wall parts to be supplied
extremely well suited to finishing with:
as semi-prefabricated packages
a thin layer of plaster
(illustration 1).
tiling straight onto the surface.
2.1 Ordering and delivery procedure
illustration 1
The building system is offered and sold

by Xella per nett m2 per thickness
dimension. Price calculations are
based on the drawings, which must at
least have a scale of 1:100, supplied by
the contractor or architect.
Included in m2 price:
- whole elements and cut blocks
delivered free on site, unloaded
next to lorry;
- cutting of blocks;
- working drawings of walls.
Not included are prices of material
aids, thin joint mortar and accessories.
They will be quoted separately.
Once the client has committed the
order, Xella will make the working wall
drawings, based on the drawings
supplied by the customer (illustration 2),
of the elements and blocks required
for the walls.
A = elements. These are in standard formats in the working dimensions of

1000 x 545/645 mm in various thickness dimensions.
B = straight fitting pieces, cut to size from the elements, which makes straight wall
endings possible.
C = slanting fitting pieces, cut from elements to the desired angles and sizes, mainly
for use in apexes of gables
D = kicker course blocks. To be used for construction of the first layer of blocks.
This functions as a fitting edge for the elements and a level base.
Advantages of building with

SILKA calcium silicate elements:
simple building technique;
high compressive strength;
fast, rational and non-intensive labour;
easy build ability with thin joint mortar;
thin wall finishing (23 mm plaster finish);
all round use;
little preparation;
flexible;
no large investments in equipment
such as formwork and heavy cranes;
slimmer walls than traditional
building techniques versions;
less building moisture;
no waste.
Illustration 2: wall drawings
10
Schematic overview of the ordering

and delivery procedure
Offer stage
The builder provides the information for the building

project to be executed in SILKA (including the
construction drawing on scale 1:100) and requests a
quotation. Based on price calculation, a quotation is
made.
Execution of order
Providing Xella with the order either direct or via

builders merchant. Builder will provide Xella with 1:100
scale drawings for the proposed project. Based on the
definite work drawings,working drawings of walls are
drafted and given to the builder and/or client for
approval. Once approved by the client, the necessary
blocks are cut at the factory and prepared for
transportation.
Delivery at buyers option Delivery of the elements and cut blocks takes place
according to a schedule, set by the factory and the client.
The working drawings of the walls also
The blocks are offloaded on site, next
elements, it is of importance that the
include the dimensions for the fitting
to the lorry and should be stored on
project supervisor has a meeting with
pieces (maximum dimensional
a level area and kept free of rising
the foreman and if possible the opera-
tolerances in height and length of
moisture. The cut blocks are delivered
tives as well, before construction begins.
fitted pieces measured across the saw
on pallets.
cut: -4 mm to +2 mm). These working
Each piece is provided with an identi-
The instructions are given at the start
drawings are first presented to the
fication mark, which corresponds with
of the construction process. Topics
client for approval, before cutting can
the marks on the working drawing.
include working with material aids,

such as cranes, adjustment of
commence.
2.2 On-site instructions
elements and fitting pieces.
Delivery schedule
A Xella project supervisor can give on-
Delivery takes place based on a sche-
site instructions about building with
If further advise is required a Xella
dule. The delivery is affected by direct
the SILKA calcium silicate elements.
project supervisor can visit the site
contact between the client and the
Should instructions be required, the
when the walls are under construction.
logistics department of the supplying
client can get in touch with Xella.
The project supervisor draws up a

report when visiting a site and gives
factory. Wherever possible, the SILKA

calcium silicate elements are supplied
If parties concerned have no experience
in full loads.
in using the SILKA calcium silicate
his thoughts about the work methods.
11
2.3 Materials and tools

The following tools and materials
are necessary for this method of
construction:
A. A mechanical or hydraulic crane
E. A double clamping device for adjusting two elements simultaneously

in an anchorless cavity wall.
F. SILKA mortar applicator, suitable
for the thickness of the elements
per squad (various models are
used.
available).
An even spread of the correct
B. Approved clamping device for
thickness of mortar can only be
lifting the SILKA elements with
achieved by using this mortar
a crane.
applicator for bed joints.
C. A block gripper with power cut
G. SILKA thin joint mortar scoop,
safety device for distribution of the
designed for the thickness of the
elements at the construction area.
elements used, which evenly
D. Clamping devices for lifting cut

blocks with the crane.
12
applies the thin joint mortar to the

vertical joints of the elements.
H. A spack knife for removing

excess mortar.
I. A pallet-truck for manoeuvring
the pallets with cut blocks.
J. Plastic mortar trough for mixing
the thin joint mortar.
I
The tools and materials A to E can
be hired, on a weekly basis, from the
supplying factory. The tools and
materials A to G can also be
bought directly through Xella.
The builder will need to provide
the following:
- a bar or barrel mixer;
- small (masonry)tool;
- a mobile crane for distribution of
the heavy materials and for moving
the crane;
- trestle scaffolding, pallet lifting
device etc.;
- even offloading area and scaffold
parts to enable offloading of SILKA
calcium silicate elements
(for prevention of rising moisture).
13
2.4 Constructing
2.4.2 Profile adjustment
2.4.1 Work sequence
Corner uprights are set the same as
When using the SILKA elements,
for laying traditional bricks; the
the following work sequence
adjusting slats should not interfere
should be followed:
with the crane.
- adjust the necessary corner

uprights;
2.4.3 Kicker course construction
- kicker course construction;
The kicker course is constructed
- setting up the crane;
using SILKA kicker course blocks,
- mixing the thin joint mortar;
specially designed for this purpose as
- erecting the wall;
they are completely flat, level and
- removing excess mortar and
easily adjustable by means of a line,
repairing any wall damage with an
in a general purpose mortar.
appropriate filler;
The vertical joints are filled with thin
- shoring the walls.
joint mortar.
The kicker course construction should
be completely set before placement of
the SILKA elements can begin.
14
2.4.4 Distribution plan

It is vital a distribution plan is drawn
up to allow the system to maintain its
efficiency. The plan allows the materials to be craned into an appropriate
position for efficient construction.
2.4.5 Setting up the crane
A number of cranes are available
varying from 450 kg to more than
1000 kg for the hydraulic crane.
SILKA elements are stacked

on slats, as close as possible
to the wall to be built, taking
into account possible recommendations by the flooring
manufacturer. Service pipes
should protrude as little as
possible (max.100 mm) above
the floor.
The crane solely works on highvoltage current.

2.4.6 Thin joint mortar - Silkafix
These are specially developed water
retaining mortars for SILKA calcium
silicate elements and blocks, based
on traditional method of preparation.
A bed of 2 3 mm mortar is required
to lay the blocks; such a technique is
known as thin joint mortar
SILKA recommends using only the thin
joint mortar on command, supplied
by the factory (Silkafix) and adhering
to the instructions on the packaging.
Specifications:
- delivery in bags of 25 kg;
6.000
- instructions for use on
6.000
the packaging;
- setting time about 4 hours;
002
005
Place for setting up

crane Wheelbase
2.00 x 2.00 m
Place for setting up

crane Wheelbase
2.00 x 2.00 m
1,00 m
003
plan for placing the Silka products on the floor
Silka
elements
E 150 for wall 004
in two layers
004
Pallet
with cut
elements
for
wall 006
Pallet
with cut
elements
for
wall 007
Silka
lelements
E 150 for wall 007
in two layers
Pallet
with cut
elements
for
wall 003
Silka
lelements
E 100
for wall 003
004
Silka
elements
E 150
for wall 001
and there is no powder left.
007
001
Pallet
with cut
elements
for
wall 001
good, smooth, workable mass ensues
10.000
the dry mix to fully bond to a soluble
2 Pallet with
cut elements
for wall 004
on top of
each other
be mixed for about 4 minutes allowing

and useable state. After 4 minutes a
Silka elements
E 150 for wall 007
in two layers
Silka
elements
E 150
for wall 001
Remark: The thin joint mortar must
Pallet
with cut
elements
for
wall 005
Silka
elementsE 150 f
for wall 004
in two layers
Pallet
with cut
elements
for
wall 002
about 1 November to 1 April).
Silka
elements
E 100
for wall 006
(Winter mortar is delivered from
Silka
elements
E 100
for wall 002
can be used up to about 3 .
Silka
elements
E 100
for wall 005
1,00 m
- the special winter thin joint mortar
1,00 m
006
work sequence:
-wall 001
-wall 002
-wall 003
move crane
-2 x wall 004
-wall 005
-wall 006
-wall 007
15
2.4.7 Erecting walls
must be removed with a spack knife
With a squad consisting of two persons,
after it has slightly hardened.
SILKA calcium silicate elements can

be laid mechanically. One person
2.4.8 Scaffold work and shoring
operates the crane, picking up strate-
The SILKA walls can immediately be
gically placed elements and bringing
erected to the full height of the wall.
them to the wall under construction.
Depending on weather conditions and
The second person sees to the appli-
the thickness of the walls, it may be
cation of thin joint mortar to all joints
necessary to shore walls. The regula-
and ensures that the elements are
tions set by health and safety directives
correctly placed. The application of
must always be adhered with regard
thin joint mortar must take place with
to shoring walls as well as scaffolding
the aid of the mortar applicator; the
work. During and after construction,
slide of this applicator must be set to
the walls must be prevented from fal-
size disposing only of a 2 mm mortar
ling down.
bed. The mortar for the vertical joint
Walls falling over or sliding down could
is applied with the help of a scoop,
be caused by wind load (pressure or
from the bottom to the top,on the
suction) or because of impact load,
already adjusted SILKA elements.
which could take place during, for
For elements with a thickness of
example, assembly of floor slabs.
300 mm, it is recommended that the
Calculations by TGB Steen-
mortar is applied by the person
constructies en proefnemingen
operating the crane before he cranes
(according to European Standard) have
the next block to the wall.
shown that a wall with a height of up

to 2.70 m and a thickness of up to
16
If necessary, the placement of the
214 mm should be supported and
elements could be tightened up with
properly shored every 5.00 m until the
the use of a heavy rubber hammer to
floor on top of the walls (or roof con-
close the vertical joint. Excess mortar
struction respectively) has been placed.
REMARK:
Do not apply the
thin joint mortar
with the aid of a
trowel under any
circumstances.
Shoring Walls
As a guideline for closed walls up to
2.50 m high and up to and including
214 mm thick and closed tops, the
above mentioned diagrams can be
followed.
Remark: diagrams are intended for
the inland areas; in blustery areas a
shoring distance of 4.00 m maximum
applies.
Suitable as shore are:
- cross walls with a minimum length
of 2.00 m, which have been decently anchored to the wall with the
standard clamping;
- shoring as shown on the
picture above.
17
Chapter 3
Anchoring SILKA elements

3.1 Wall ties
Due to the thin mortar joints ( 2 mm),
a complete anchoring programme
was developed for SILKA calcium
silicate elements and SILKA hand
size blocks.
As a result, working with thin joint
mortars has become very easy.
The following anchors and ties are
applied in SILKA blocks:
18
3.1.1 Thin joint mortar coupling strip

These are flat, perforated strip anchors
for connecting adjoining walls in a
vertical joint. A strip anchor is required
for each layer.
1 to 2 anchors every 545 to 645 mm,

in consultation with the builder
Coupling strip
Coupling strip 300 mm
Dilatation anchor
3.1.2 Wall anchors

These anchors, also known as wall ties,
are for rigid and flexible joints between
partition walls and load-bearing walls.
Flexible wall anchors can also be
applied in flexible ceiling joints.
Anchors
Dilatation wall anchor
Rigid wall anchor
Flexible anchor
19
3.1.3 Cavity wall anchors

These anchors have a flat strip on one
side. They are placed closed side up,
to the rebate, in the mortar.
Cavity tie SS
130 +/-15 mm
3.1.4 Railing anchors
160 +/-15 mm
Railing anchors were specially

developed with a view to the safety
regulations.
These anchors, which are placed in the
bed joints of the inner leaf of the cavity
wall, facilitate the placement of a
railing by means of scaffolding parts.
Railing Nail plate including cased nail

8x50 mm. Apply at edge security systems
for mounting railing clamp. Use 1 railing
nail plate per railing clamp. Mount by
means of cased nails on upper side of
SILKA wall. Not for application with
concrete hollow-core slab floors.
Clip for applying
insulation
LIPCLIP article
Railing Clamp
Apply for edge security, quantity to
the builders specification.
Railing thin bed mortar plate

Apply for edge security systems.
For mounting railing clamp, use 1 plate
per clamp.
Place in bed joint, between the 2 top
layers of elements
20
Fusible synthetic anchor
3.1.6 Fusible anchors
Fusible steel anchor
Trimming joist anchor (heavy duty)
Joist hanger
Dowel
3.2 Purlins
Purlins can be supported using special
purlin anchors, available on the market.
These purlin anchors should be
mounted on an eaves purlin, against
the bevelled wall.
Wedge
21
Chapter 4
Working in summer and winter

4.1 Working in summer
ice should not be used. Thanks to the
If correct precautions are taken,
In dry periods, the adhesive surfaces
fact that thin joint mortar sets very
working with SILKA calcium silicate
of the SILKA elements must be
quickly, the newly erected walls are
elements can continue until the frost-
moistened before mortar is applied.
less sensitive to the consequences of
delay comes into effect.
The mortar should not be applied in
frost than walls built with conventional
excess of 2 m ahead of the last element
general purpose mortar.
placed, in order to prevent the mortar

from burning. The mortar trough
However, precautions should be
with ready mixed thin joint mortar
taken to prevent freezing, such as
must be kept out of the full sun,
- protecting materials and equipment
unless the mortar is well covered.
by covering it with f. ex. the SILKA

frost protecting covers or by heating
4.2 Working in winter

Using thin joint mortar is considered
- shelter of the building site;
to be one of the least frost sensitive
- protecting recently built walls and
activities. This means that work does
kicker courses from frost by cove-
not have to stop immediately if frost
ring or heating;
is expected. Of course, frozen

elements or elements with
22
and storage in frost free sheds;
- keeping dowel holes clean

and water free
Never scatter
salt near
calcium silicate.
To combat ice and
frost, use coarse
(breaker)sand.
23
Chapter 5
Movement joints
5.1 Movement joint advice
It could be necessary to include movement joints in the walls, as SILKA walls
are subject to shrinkage due to loss of moisture. The criteria for the advice on
movement joints are:
- wall height;
- wall thickness;
- weakening due to openings;
- impediments.
24
As the wall becomes higher and

thicker, it can take more tensile
stress/axial tension. If the wall experiences shrinkage and is impeded, this
can result in cracks. The impediments
are distinguished as follows:
Horizontal impediments
- one-sided:
all non load-bearing walls;
- two-sided:
all load-bearing walls.
Vertical impediments
- Slack bending: wall end connected
to a cross wall (tooth structure or
vertical joint) slimmer than the width
of the wall under consideration;
- Stiff bending: wall end connected
to a cross wall (tooth structure or
vertical joint) wider than the width
of the wall under consideration;
- Unimpeded: wall end free.
Advice on
movement joints
is provided
by Xella.
25
1000
A
B
C
Dilatation
Cross-section B
Cross-section A
Cross-section C
cut
Do not apply mortar
Do not apply mortar
Apply mortar
5.2 Movement joints
and delivered as facing work masonry.
This type of joint can only be used
The movement joints indicated on the
Nevertheless, it regularly occurs that
in walls on non-deflecting founda-
working drawings of SILKA elements
SILKA calcium silicate elements are
tions and where extra adjustment
are related to possible size reductions
used to build fire-resistant partitioning
space is not required (for example
of calcium silicate due to drying
walls, without a finishing plaster. In
shrinkage. However, shrinkage of cal-
this case, it is important to bear in
cium silicate is only a few tenths of
mind that the fire resistance is
approx. 10 mm and filled with an
millimetres maximum.
demanded for the whole wall, which
elastic and airtight joint sealing.
For walls on deflecting foundations,
means that also the movement joint
Meant for walls, in which a struc-
the deflection of the floor can also
must be fire-resistant.
tural movement joint must be

applied and walls in which extra
influence the movement in the movement joint. Necessary structural
5.3 Controlling movement joints.
adjustment space is required (for
movement joints must be indicated
Movement joints come in two kinds:
example non load-bearing walls
by the builder on site.
- Cold movement joint with a width
and inner leaf cavity walls in longi-
SILKA elements are not manufactured
26
in parti-walls between houses).

- Movement joint with a width of
of approx. 1mm, without filling.
tudinal outer walls).
Cold movement joint in loadbearing wall

(e.g.house separating wall)
Cold movement joint in loadbearing wall

(e.g.house separating wall)
0 or 1 mm
0 or 1 mm
min. 150 mm
perforated
fibre
seal
tension distributing layer

as a reinforcement in
the thin plaster
2 casing beads
10 mm
Airtight flexible seal
seal min.3 mm wide

2 casing beads
5.4 Finishing movement joints.
Filled movement joints can remain
Cold movement joints in a wall with
Cold movement joints can be finished
visible finishing the layer of plaster
a layer of plaster, over which a non-
off by directly applying a wide fibre-
with a casing bead on both sides of
elastic layer of paint is applied, can
glass tape of min. 150 mm, which has
the movement joint. It is important
be finished off with 2 casing beads
been provided with a perforated fibre
that the casing beads are kept at
with 1 to 2 mm space, with a hidden
of 50 mm in the middle (f.i. Technotape/
least 3 mm apart and filled with an
elastic seal.
Dilatape or equivalent).
airtight and flexible seal, which will
If the wall areas differ from each
remain flexible and can be painted.
other on either side, the joint must

previously be evened out with a thin
layer of plaster. This plaster must be
hardened out before the self-adhesive
fibreglass tape is applied.
27
Chapter 6
Connecting inner cavity walls

to boundary walls
In consultation with Xella,working
The mechanical qualities of shoved ver-
drawings of walls will indicate the
tical joints meet the requirements of
method for connecting inner cavity
the European standard. This was tested
walls to separating walls.
by TNO Bouw in the Netherlands.

The structural engineer involved in a
The connection possibilities are:
certain project remains responsible for
constructive - straight edge
the construction. The mechanical
flexible
- tooth structure
qualities of a vertical joint with special
-seal
ties are equal to the mechanical

qualities of a tooth structure.
28
50 mm
150 mm 150 mm
vertical joint
coupling strip
240 x 20 x 0,75 R.V.S.
or an equivalent
every 645 mm
The minimal length of

the seating on the wall
depends of the span and
the type of lintel.
Lintel not to be laid
on block gauge.
If applying a steel lintel,
serration is necessary.
tooth structure
insulation panel (PS or PUR)
break at the cavity wall
120 120
movement joint in cladding (optional)
6.1 Partitioning wall

When using the SILKA calcium silicate
elements for party walls between
assembled lintel
houses it is highly recommended,
or self-supporting
particularly because of the specific
synthetic foil
thin finishing of the walls, to build the

inner leaf of the cavity walls with
length
of bearing
lintel
SILKA elements as well.
recess size
6.1.1 SILKA elements in inner leaf

of cavity walls
Because of their measurements of
997 x 543/643 mm, SILKA elements
are extremely suitable for larger wall
surfaces. The inner cavity leafs should
be placed simultaneously with the
party walls. In simultaneous execution
of party walls and inner cavity leafs,
complete shells can be achieved. An
added advantage is, that the newly
built walls are more stable and therefore, more resistant to gusts of wind.
6.1.2 SILKA thin joint mortar blocks in

inner leaf of cavity walls
For smaller tighter areas and spaces,
inner leaf cavity walls can also be built
with hand size blocks.
6.2 Lintels and frame connections
Preferably door and window frames
should run up to the ceiling above. If
this is not possible, there are two
alternatives: filling the opening above
door and window frames with a timber
panel up to the ceiling above or having
the lintel run across the full height.
For frame and door openings, a lintel
should be used above the opening in a
wall. Due to the remaining, 2 mm
high, bed joint, it is impossible to add
steel bed joint reinforcements in
SILKA thin joint mortar systems.
29
Chapter 7
Wall finishing & projects

7.1 Thin plastering
7.2 Tile-work
Walls made of SILKA can be finished
Tiles can be applied straight on to
with a skim of plaster either manually,
calcium silicate with a tile adhesive
mechanically or by means of spray
with either a cement-or a synthetic
plaster.
base, in accordance with the directions
Before finishing the wall, uneven
supplied by the manufacturer of the
joints and possible face damage have
tile adhesive.
to be filled with a suitable filler. Skim
Should the surface prove to be too
plaster can subsequently be applied
uneven, the wall will first have to be
with adhesive gypsum or spray plaster,
evened out with a cement based pro-
according to suppliers specification.
duct. The wall can subsequently be
Although it is also possible to use a
tiled,using a tile adhesive on either
plaster that does not require uneven
cement or synthetic base. Applying
joints and damages to be filled by
tiles to a gypsum wall finish should
hand first. Consult the supplier of the
be avoided under all circumstances,
finishing material for advice on this.
as this can lead to damaged tilework.
When applying a spray plaster, the total

plaster thickness will be about 3 mm.
30
Building guidelines for using thin joint mortar systems

Criteria for surface assessment of calcium silicate walls built with SILKA products
Assessment aspect
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Elements
Hand size blocks
Chamfered blocks
Vertical joints (with regard to the permitted joint width)
no requirements
no requirements
permitted deviation
Bed joints (with regard to the permitted joint width)
no requirements
no requirements
permitted deviation
Bed joints
no requirements
no requirements
permitted deviation
1 mm at most
1 mm at most
(longitudinal direction;measured over top block)
2 mm/m
Levelness: maximum dimensional variation permitted at
1m
2 mm
3 mm
distances between measuring points of:
4m
3 mm
4 mm
2 mm
3 mm
9m
5 mm
5 mm
5 mm
Description of groups:
Group 1: walls of elements, which can be finished with a plastering system to a maximum thickness of 3 mm.
Group 2: walls of (hand size) blocks, which can be finished with a skim plaster as from 3mm thick.
Group 3: walls of chamfered blocks, which will not be finished (one or twosided fair-face work).
Source: BKB (BV Quality declarations Constructions)
7.3 Multi-storey house building,

commercial, office and
industrial building
The higher compressive strength of
masonry with SILKA elements of
quality CS 25 is specifically adapted
for construction of medium high and
high buildings up to 10 or 12 storeys.
Industrial buildings
There are cranes available with a
hoisting height of 10,5 metres. These
machines are very useful for building
high walls in industrial buildings.
31
Chapter 8
Product information
SILKA calcium silicate elements
Product description
takes place by means of steam under
duced in standard heights of 70, 85
SILKA elements are suitable for
high pressure.
100, 115, 130, 145 and 160 mm.
bearing inner leaf cavity walls, party
Shape
Appearance
walls or other wall constructions.
Rectangular elements with
Surface structure: smooth.
They are available in various sizes and
labyrinth joint.
Colour: white
requirements.
Fitting pieces are cut to the correct
application in load- and non load-
size out of elements at the factory.
Mechanical characteristics
Composition
Element tolerances: length, width, and
fb in accordance with EN 771
Raw material: mixture of mainly slaked
height of +/-1 mm.
and BBA n 08/4553
lime and sand.
Cut block tolerances: , length and
standard quality CS 25
height: from 4 mm to +2 mm.

Method of manufacture
32
The mixture is pressed into blocks or
Kicker course blocks
elements and after that hardening
Blocks for the kicker course are pro-
Type
Normalized mean
compressive strength
in N/mm2
Dimensions
l x w x h (mm)
Kg thin joint mortar /m2 (excl.spillage loss) at

2 mm (permanent) bed joint and 3 mm butt joint
E 100
25
997 x 100 x 543/643
1,4 / 1,6
E 150
25
997 x 150 x 543/643
2,2 / 2,5
E 175
25
997 x 175 x 543/643
2,5 / 3,0
E 214
25
997 x 214 x 543/643
3,0 / 3,6
E 240*
25
997 x 240 x 543/643
3,4 / 3,8
E 300
25
997 x 300 x 543/643
4,4 / 5,0
* On request
33
Fire resistance
SILKA calcium silicate elements are fireproof. The fire resistance values of a
wall with fully filled joints are:
Thickn. wall
Fire resistance
100 mm
60 min
150 mm
120 min
214 mm
360 min
Gases, liquids and solid substances

Water vapour permability: 5/25
Thermal characteristics
Linear coefficient of expansion: = 9 12 x 10 6 m/(m.K)
Thermal conductivity: Ui = 0.91 W/m.K
Specific heat c = 1000 J/kg.K
Acoustic qualities
Sound absorption coefficient: = 0,03 (500 1000 Hz).
The noise reduction of a wall with fully filled joints and finished is:
Single wall
construction
Rw
(ISO 717)
E 100*
45 dB
E 150*
50 dB
E 175*
52 dB
E 214*
55 dB
E 240**
56 dB
E 300*
58 dB
Anchorless wall
construction
Rw
(DIN 4109)
E150 20 - E150*
67 dB
* test result
** E240 is only available on request
Application
silicate thin joint mortar, bed joint
the BBA n 08/4553 requirements.
E 150 to E 300: inner leaf cavity walls
thickness 2 mm, butt joint thickness
Prices and terms of delivery:
and load-bearing constructions in
3 mm. Both perp ends and bed joints
according to specification of Xella.
masonry back-up.
must be fully filled with mortar.
Delivery time: standard elements
E 100: non load-bearing party walls
Accessories: SILKA thin joint mortar
usually from stock, sawed blocks
applicators, mortar scoops, clamping
according to specification.
Building process:
devices were developed especially for
Storage: on stable, even and non-
the processing of SILKA elements.
Technical service
contaminated surface.
Movement joints: movement joints are
- Technical construction advices
Preparation: pre-processing check
indicated on the working wall drawings
- Application advices
(by client) of the working wall drawings
supplied by Xella.
supplied by Xella. SILKA elements,
Finishing: SILKA elements are applied
sawed blocks and kicker course
as masonry back-up and can be
blocks, which are too dry for proces-
readied for wallpaper by means
sing, should be moistened one day
of thin finishing skim plaster.
before use.
Workability: sawing
Processing: consult the SILKA pro-
34
cessing directions. The elements are
Prices, delivery and guarantees
mechanically stacked, according to the
SILKA elements are delivered under
working wall drawings, with calcium
CE certification, SILKA elements meet
The SILKA product range from Xella
their applications and/or how they
finds its way to all sectors in the buil-
can be used in construction, please
ding industry, finding use in dwellings,
contact Xella.
non-residential buildings and renova-
Although Xella has devoted the
tion. In this connection, SILKA blocks
greatest possible care to the content
have the right properties for use in
and composition of this brochure,
load-bearing and non load-bearing con-
no rights can be derived from it by
structions. In addition to sales and
third parties.
marketing activities, Xella supplies
Always consult the instructions for
technical advice on construction and
use and the product informations
gives information to customers, buil-
that come with the goods.
ders, clients, architects and advisers.
Xella reserves the right to modify
If you have any questions about this
product specifications at any time
brochure or the SILKA-products and
without prior notice.
35
Xella UK
Unit 2, The Courtyard
Reddicap Trading Estate
Sutton Coldfield
West Midlands
B75 7BU
England - UK
BBGV-0608
Tel : +44 (0)870 409 0306

Fax: +44 (0)870 240 2948
www.xella.co.uk
silka-uk@xella.com
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the correctness of the information provided
in this Material Safety Data Sheet which relates to the product decribed only, and which is
supplied to product purchasers on the basis that we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Health and safety information provided in the Material Safety Data Sheet is intended
for general guidance only, and it is the responsibility of the user to ensure that suitable and
sufficient assessment of hazards and risks posed in the employment of any products are undertaken and to comply with any duties imposed by Statutory or Regulatory requirements. No
statement made in this Material Safety Data Sheet shall be construed as permission or recommendation for the use of any product in a manner that might infringe any existing patents, nor
is any warranty made, either expressed or implied.
SILKA and XELLA are registered trademarks of the Xella Group

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SILKA calcium silicate

A.2R.C / BPI / De Wael / BPC

Together, we can face any

Calcium silicate products are the

number of production locations and

slogan: "Building? With SILKA naturally!"

building material of the future.

its own facilities for market research

A slogan with a clear message: SILKA

Certainly if they bear the signature of

and product development.

calcium silicate elements are an

Xella, a firm with more than half a

The synergy within the concern

excellent building material with a

century of experience behind it.

enables Xella to convert the require-

particularly low environmental load.

Xella has a clear mission: to build

ments in the building world rapidly

But exactly how "natural" are SILKA

reliably by using innovative products

and flexibly to specific, efficient and

elements? And how do they relate to

and services. Craftsmen who give of

cost-saving building solutions.

sustainable building? These are the

their best to achieve guaranteed

Better building with fewer costs?

important questions that will be

quality and provide outstanding

Xella is ready for that!

addressed extensively in this brochure.

service. Xella possesses a large

Many in the building world know the

SILKA Calcium Silicate Elements

Calcium silicate, environmentally friendly products

Use of SILKA blocks

SILKA calcium silicate elements

Clamping devices and dowels

Chapter 2 Construction methods

Ordering and delivery procedure

Materials and tools

2.4.1 Work sequence

2.4.2 Profile adjustment

2.4.3 Kicker course construction

2.4.4 Distribution plan

2.4.5 Setting up the crane

2.4.6 Thin joint mortar - Silkafix

2.4.7 Erecting walls

2.4.8 Scaffold work and shoring

Chapter 3 Anchoring SILKA elements

3.1.1 Coupling strips

3.1.2 Wall anchors

3.1.3 Cavity wall anchors

3.1.4 Railing anchors

3.1.5 Edge formwork anchors

3.1.6 Fusible anchors

Chapter 4 Working in summer and winter

Chapter 5 Movement joints

Movement joint advice

Controlling movement joints

Finishing movement joints

Chapter 6 Connecting inner cavity walls to boundary walls