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Knowledge Base
T42.00 - Pedestal Structure & Fixings
The swing bag test.
The Swing Bag Test, formally designated Test P4.06 – T42.00 Pedestal Structure and Fixings, is a recognised performance test used within the raised access flooring industry to assess the strength and durability of pedestal structures, fixings and adhesives when subjected to repeated dynamic loading.
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Unlike static load tests, which apply a constant vertical force, the Swing Bag Test is designed to replicate the sudden impacts and lateral forces that occur during the lifetime of a raised access floor. These dynamic loads can be generated by heavy foot traffic, movement of equipment, installation activities and accidental impacts, making the test an important indicator of long-term system reliability.
How the Test is Performed
The test is carried out on a raised access flooring pedestal that has been fixed to the base with a StarFix pedestal adhesive and allowed to cure for 48 hours. A calibrated weighted bag (3kg) is suspended from a fixed frame, allowing it to swing in a controlled pendulum motion. The bag is released from a predetermined height so that it strikes the pedestal with a repeatable impact energy. The repeated impacts introduce dynamic forces, placing significant stresses on:
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Pedestal adhesives
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Pedestal-to-subfloor connections
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Pedestal structures
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Stringers and fixings (where fitted)
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Floor panels and the overall support system
Following the required number of impacts, the pedestal is carefully inspected for any signs of movement, loosening or damage.
What is Being Evaluated?
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The purpose of the Swing Bag Test is to determine whether the raised access flooring system can continue to perform safely after exposure to repeated dynamic loading.
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During evaluation, inspectors typically assess:
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Integrity of the pedestal adhesive bond
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Stability of pedestal fixings
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Movement or rotation of pedestals
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Loosening of stringers or mechanical fixings
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Permanent deformation of components
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Overall structural integrity of the flooring system
A successful result demonstrates that the installation is capable of resisting the dynamic forces likely to be encountered during normal service without loss of performance.
Why Adhesive Performance Matters?​
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The pedestal adhesive plays a critical role in the overall stability of a raised access flooring installation. Even when pedestals and panels are manufactured to the highest standards, the system is only as reliable as the bond securing each pedestal to the subfloor.
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StarFix® pedestal adhesives have been developed specifically to provide:
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High bond strength to common construction substrates
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Excellent resistance to impact and vibration
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Long-term durability
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Reliable performance under repeated dynamic loading
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Consistent results across a wide range of installation conditions
These characteristics help maintain the integrity of the complete raised access flooring system throughout its service life.
Confidence Through Testing​
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Independent testing to recognised industry procedures, including the P4.06 – T42.00 Swing Bag Test, provides reassurance that a raised access flooring installation is capable of withstanding the real-world demands placed upon it.
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By combining high-performance chemistry with rigorous testing, the StarFix® range of pedestal adhesives helps ensure raised access flooring installations remain stable, secure and dependable for years to come.
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