suggested guidelines for the essential elements of · pdf file ·...

www.SyntheticTurfCouncil.org

SuggestedGuidelinesfortheEssentialElementsofSyntheticTurfSystems

RevisedNovember2011



FirstPrintingMay2003

FirstRevisionMay2004

SecondRevisionFebruary2006

ThirdRevisionMay2007

FourthRevisionMay2008

FifthRevisionNovember2011

Copyright©2011bytheSyntheticTurfCouncil

400GalleriaParkway,Suite1500

Atlanta,GA30339

Nopartofthisdocumentmaybereproducedortransmittedinanyformorbyanymeans,electronic ormechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage orretrieval systemnowknownor to be invented,without permission inwriting from theSyntheticTurfCouncil,exceptbyareviewerwhowishestoquotebriefpassagesinare-view written for inclusion in a magazine, newspaper or broadcast. The Synthetic TurfCouncilisanon-pro it,educationalorganizationandpossessesallrightspertainingtothispublication.


Preface

TheSyntheticTurfCouncil(STC)wasformedtoguidetheselectionanduseofsyntheticturfsystems.TheSTCisanon-pro itassociationdedicatedtoaddressingthedesireoftheindustrytoenhanceitsreputationforquality.Ithopestoearnsupportbydevelopingdoc-uments that facilitate communicationandgoodbusinesspracticebetweenall parties tothesyntheticturfsystemsincludingowners,selectionteams,architects,designers,speci i-ers, consultants, testing laboratories, suppliers, manufacturers, installation andmainte-nancecontractors,etc.Everyattemptwillbemadetodispenseinformationthat isunbi-ased,objective,andinthebestinterestofallthepartiesandtheuser/ownerinparticular.The STC also suggests the utilization of standards and testmethods that already exist,wheneverapplicable, togenerategreaterunderstanding in theselectionanduseofsyn-theticturfsystemsdomesticallyandinternationally.TheSTCofferstoserveasaneutralplatformwhereallelementsoftheindustrycandiscuss,mediateorresolveissues.

TheinitialundertakingbytheSyntheticTurfCouncilhasbeenthedevelopmentofguide-linesforessentialelementstobeincludedinanobjectivenon-proprietaryspeci icationforsyntheticturfsystems.Minimumssuggestedintheseguidelinesseektoimprovethelevelofcon idenceintheprocessofselectingsyntheticturfsystemsbyowner/user/clients,se-lectionteamsanddesignprofessionals.Thisdocumentfacilitatesaclearerunderstandingbyallthepartiesoftheirexpectationsandthedeliveryofsystems,products,andservicesin order to promote genuine satisfaction by the user/owners of synthetic turf systems.These guidelines developed by the STC are a continual work in progress and may bechangedatanytimethroughanorderlyprocessthataccommodatesconsiderationofdoc-umented input.While thisdocumentcontainsminimums, itpromotes theuseofall sys-temsthatnotonlymeetorexceedthoseminimums,butalsoencouragesinnovation.

The development of documents like these suggested guidelines is intended to facilitateconstructiveinputandforgeacooperativeatmospherebetweenusersandproducers.TheSTCinvitesusers,professionals,manufacturers,riskmanagers,schoolof icials,sportsau-thorities,contractorsand/ortherepresentativeassociationsofthesesegmentstoutilizethesesuggestedguidelines.



TableofContents

Introduction 1

1. General 1

TerminologyDe inition 1

Abbreviations 3

2. Scope 4

SyntheticTurfTypes 4

Fiber 4

PrimaryBackingSystems 4

SecondaryBackingSystems 4

Perforations 5

In illMaterials 5

3. PerformanceEvaluationofSyntheticTurf 7

Player-SurfaceInterface 7

Ball-SurfaceInterface 8

Appearance 8

QualityControl 8

Warranty 8

Maintenance 10

WorkApprovals,ExtraMaterials,Storage 10

4. EvaluationofSystemComponents 11

DrainageSystem 11

BaseMaterials 12

ShockAbsorbingResilientUnderlaymentSystems 13

IrrigationSystem 15

SyntheticTurf 15

In illMaterial 17

LinesandMarkings 18

Inserts 19


TableofContents(continued)

5. ConstructionandInstallation 20

Inspection 20

Sub-gradePreparation 20

Aggregate 20

ShockAbsorbingResilientUnderlaymentSystems 22

IrrigationSystems 22

SyntheticTurfMaterialProductionQA/QC 24

SyntheticTurfInstallation 24

In illMaterialInstallation 25

FiberConditioning 25

6. Maintenance 26

General 26

MaintenanceMonitoring 27

Cleaning 27

StainRemoval 27

Brushing 27

SeamRepair 27

7. Post-InstallationTesting 27

Schedule 27

g-Max 27

InspectionofSeamsandOtherInstallationFeatures 27

GoverningOrganizations 27

AppendixA—TestsandGuidelines 28

Table1:BaseMaterials 29

Table2:TurfCharacteristicsforTuftedIn illSystems 30

Table3:TurfCharacteristicsforKnittedNylonSystems 31

Table4:TurfCharacteristicsforTuftedPP,PEorNylonSystems 32

Table5:In illProperties 33

Table6:ShockPadLayerProperties 33

Table7:PerformanceGuidelines 33


TableofContents(continued)

AppendixB—ReferenceSpeci ications,Typical 34

Chart1:In illedSyntheticTurfSpeci ication 35

Chart2:ConventionalKnittedSyntheticTurfSpeci ication 36

Chart3:ConventionalTuftedSyntheticTurfSpeci ication 37

Chart4:ShockPad,Pre-fabricatedPadSystemsSpeci ication 38

Chart5:ShockPad,InsituSystemsSpeci ication 38

Legend—ProvidersofSyntheticTurfSystems 39

Disclaimer 41

AbouttheSyntheticTurfCouncil 41


1STC©November2011

IntroductionThisdocumentintendstoprovidereliableguidelinesthataddresstheneedforessentialelements to be included in an objective non-proprietary speci ication for synthetic turfsystems.Theminimumssuggestedintheseguidelinesseektoimprovethelevelofcon i-denceoftheowner/user/client,selectionteamanddesignprofessionalinthespecifyingandselectionofsyntheticturfsystems.Adoptionoftheprovisionsinthisdocumentisvol-untary;however,whenutilized,theycanassistallpartiesinvolvedwiththeselection,de-sign, supply and service of the systems, to generate a clearer understanding of the ex-pectedperformance,thedeclareduse,theinclusionsandexclusionsandthewarrantycov-erageofsyntheticturfsystems.Whilethesesuggestedguidelinescontainminimums,theyarenotintendedtosti leinnovation.Enhancements,qualityupgradesandproveninnova-tionsareencouragedtogeneratefeaturesthatenhancetheperformancecharacteristicsofthesystem.

1.General

1.1 Thesesuggestedguidelinesprovidereliabletoolsfortheselectionofsyntheticturfsystemsrelativetotheirdeclareduseandexpectedperformance.

1.2 Thedocumentisnotintendedtoreplacedetailedplansandspeci ications.Thepro-visionscontainedhereinmustbeaugmentedbydetailsspeci ictotheprojectde-sign, the job site, local environmental factors andall applicable laws, regulationsandcodesbeforethe inalspeci icationcanbeconsideredcomprehensive.

1.3 Thoseadoptingorutilizingtheprovisionsinthisdocumenthavetheobligationtodeterminetheirfullcompliancewithallapplicableinternational,federal,stateandlocal laws,regulations,andcodes.Thesesuggestedguidelinesarenotintendedtomodifythatobligationortoserveasasubstituteforcompliance.

1.4 AllProvidersofthecomponentsofthesystemsshouldmaintainacomprehensivequalitycontrolprogramtoassurethatthecomponentsmeetthesuggestedguide-lines.

1.5 Thesesuggestedguidelinesareacontinualworkinprogressandmaybechangedwithoutnoticetoaccommodatedocumentedinformationjustifyingsuchchanges.

1.6 Terminologyde initionsarespeci ictothisdocument.

1.6.1 Base Materials: Materials that provide porosity and stability such ascrushedaggregateorporouspavement.

1.6.2 Denier:Theweightingramsof9,000metersof iber


2STC©November2011

1.6.3 DrainageSystem:Amethodofremovingsurfaceandsubsurfacemoisture/water.

1.6.4 Fiber: A speci ic formof ibrous textilematerial that has a length at least100timesitsdiameterorwidth.

1.6.5 FiberThickness:Ameasurement inmicrons (metric)ormils. (U.S.) of thethinnestcrosssectionofa iber.

1.6.6 g-Max: A measurement of impact (shock absorption) in terms of gravityunitsasaratioofdeceleration.

1.6.7 In ill:Looselydispersedmaterials thatareaddedtothesynthetic turfsys-tem,typicallysand,rubber,othersuitablematerial,oracombinationthere-of.

1.6.8 Knitted:Aprocessinwhichtheyarn ibersofthepilearetiedtothebackingwhichwassimultaneouslyconstructedbytransformingcontinuousstrandsofmulti- ilamentsintoaseriesofinterlockingloops,eachrowofsuchloopshangingfromtherowimmediatelyprecedingit.

1.6.9 WaterPermeability:Therateatwhichwater lowsthroughasurfaceorsys-temcross-sectionorcomponentsofthecross-section.

1.6.10 Planarity:Uniformityofthesurfaceascomparedtocertain ixedpredeter-minedpointsorprescribedslopes.

1.6.11 PrimaryBackingSystem:Asingleormultiplelayersofwovenornon-wovenmaterials,intowhichthe iberiseithertuftedorknitted,toprovidetheini-tialconstructionofthesyntheticturf.

1.6.12 Secondary Backing System: A coating and/orwoven or non-woven fabriclayer(s)appliedtotheprimarybackingafterthe iberpilehasbeentuftedorknitted intoplace,whichserves toenhance tuftbindandprovideaddi-tionalstructuralintegrity.

1.6.13 ShockAbsorbingSystem:Component(s)thataddresiliencytothesystem.

1.6.14 Sub-grade:Astabilizedfoundationontowhichthebasematerialsand ieldsystemsareinstalled.

1.6.15 SyntheticPileFiber:Grass-likebladesmadeofsyntheticmaterials.

1.6.16 SyntheticTurfSystems:Thesesystemsarecomprisedof(a)syntheticgrass-likesurfacepiles,tuftedorknittedintoaprimarybackingsystemtowhichasecondarybackingsystemhasbeenapplied;withorwithoutin illmaterial


3STC©November2011

(s); (b)a shockabsorbing system,and (c) suitablebasematerialswithanappropriatedrainagesystem.

1.6.17 Tufted:Aprocessbywhich the iberyarns that form thepileare insertedintoapreviouslypreparedblanket-likeprimarybacking.

1.6.18 AtInstallation:Aperiodoftimeclosetothecompletiondateoftheturfin-stallation,butnottoexceed30days.

1.7 Abbreviationsreferencedinthebodyofthisdocument.

1.7.1 AmericanSocietyforTestingandMaterials(ASTM)

1.7.2 DeutschesInstitutfurNormung(DIN)

1.7.3 FederationofInternationalFootballAssociation(FIFA)

1.7.4 InternationalHockeyFederation(FIH)

1.7.5 FederationInternationaledeRugbyAmateur(FIRA)

1.7.6 InternationalAmateurAthleticFederation(IAAF)

1.7.7 NationalCollegiateAthleticAssociation(NCAA)


4STC©November2011

2.Scope

Themakeupofthecomponentsandtheelementstobeincluded,ornottobeincluded,aredeterminedbythedesign,useandexpectedperformanceofthesystem.

2.1 SyntheticTurfTypes:Thereareseveraldifferenttypesofsyntheticturfavailable.Theyaredistinguishablethroughtheuseofdifferent ibersanddifferentconstruc-tion.Differentiatedbyconstructionarethetuftedortheknittedsyntheticturfsys-tems.Bothsystemsarecomprisedofsynthetic iberswithprimaryandsecondarybackingsystemsandaresilientshockabsorbingsystem.Theshockabsorbingsys-temcanconsistofin ill,apaddingsystem,oracombinationofboth.

2.2 Fiber: Typically, the iber used in synthetic turf is textured and/or non-texturedpolypropylene,polyester,polyethylene,nylonorothersuitableperforminghybridorcopolymerintapeformormono ilament.Minimum ibersizesare50micronsforpolypropyleneorpolyester,100micronsfortapeform(slit- ilm)polyethylene,140-300formono ilamentpolyethylene(shapedependent)and500denierforny-lon.Fibersizesforhybridsorcopolymerwillcomplywiththemostcloselyrelatediber type. Ideally, all ibers should be of the same chemical composition, shape,andtexture.FibersshouldbecomplianttoASTMguidelinefortotalleadcontent.

2.3 PrimaryBackingSystemsMaterial:Theprimarybackingmaterialsareofawovenornon-wovenfabricinoneormorelayerswhichareutilizedinthetuftingprocess,orofhigh strengthpolyestermulti- ilament iberutilized in theknittingprocess.Thisbackingmaterialprovidestheinitialdimensionalstabilityforthesystem.

2.4 SecondaryBackingSystemsMaterial:Thesecondarybackingmaterialsareappliedthroughacoatingprocesswithasingleormultipleapplicationsofoneorvariousmaterials.

Mono ilament Tapeform(slit- ilm)


5STC©November2011

2.4.1 Typically, knitted turf fabric receives an initial acrylic coating followed bydifferentoptionsofpolyurethane,latex,othersuitablecoatingsorfabricsinvariousweightandthicknesscon igurations,dependingonindividualsystemdesign.Thesecondarybackingutilizedinknittedturfsystemsprovidesaddi-tionalstructuralintegritytothesystem.

2.4.2 A tufted fabric typically receives a suitable coating of polyurethane, latex,othercoatingsorfabricsinvariousweightandthicknesscon igurations,de-pendingonindividualsystemdesign.Thesecondarybackingprovidesanad-ditional level of tuft bind, bundle encapsulation and structural integrity tothe synthetic turf. Should an increased level of systemperformancebede-sired,multiplelayersofsecondarybackingmaterialswithdifferentphysicalcharacteristicscouldbeapplied.

2.5 Perforations: Depending on the inal construction of the turf system, the systemmayormaynotbepermeabletowater.Perforationsaretypicallyrequiredoffullycoatedsystembackingstoprovideadequateverticaldrainagethroughoutthesys-tem.Someturfsystemsmayallowfordrainagewithoutperforationsbyemployingaprocessofpartialcoatingorothersystemdesigns.Developmentsincoatingsys-temshaveprovidedforlighterweightandaqueouspermeablechemicals;however,thedrainagecriteriamustbemet.

2.6 In illMaterials:Themostrecentgenerationofsyntheticturfsystemsutilizesalongpileheightandneedstobesupportedwithin illmaterialsfordirectionalstabilityandstructural integrity, aswell as resiliency.The in illmaterials commonlyusedaresand,rubber,othersuitablematerials,orcombinationsthereof.

2.6.1 EPDM (Ethylene PropyleneDieneMonomer) is a polymer elastomerwithhighresistancetoabrasionandwearandwillnotchangeitssolidformun-derhigh temperatures.TypicalEPDMcolorsaregreenand tan.EPDMhasprovenitsdurabilityasanin illproductinalltypesofclimates.Itsexcellentelasticitypropertiesandresistancetoatmosphericandchemicalagentspro-videastable,highperformancein illproduct.

2.6.2 TPE(Thermoplasticelastomer)in illisnon-toxic,heavymetalfree,availa-bleinavarietyofcolorsthatresistfading,verylonglasting,and100%recy-clableandreusableasin illwhenthe ieldisreplaced.TPEin ill,whenuti-lizingvirgin-basedresins,willofferconsistentperformanceandexcellentg-maxoverawidetemperaturerange.

2.6.3 Organics:Thereareseveralorganic in illsavailable intheNorthAmericanmarket,allutilizingdifferentorganiccomponents,suchasnaturalcorkand/


6STC©November2011

orground ibersfromtheoutsideshellofthecoconut.Theseproductscanbeutilizedinprofessionalsportsapplicationsaswellasforlandscaping.Attheendofitslifecycleitcanberecycleddirectlyintotheenvironment.

2.6.4 SilicaSand:Puresilicasandisoneoftheoriginalin illingmaterialsutilizedinsyntheticturf.Thisproductisanaturalin illthatisnon-toxic,chemicallystable and fracture resistant. Silica sand in ills are typically tan, off-tanorwhiteincolorand—dependinguponplantlocation—mayberoundorsub-roundinparticleshape.Asanaturalproductthereisnopossibilityofheavymetals,andthedust/turbidityratingislessthan100.Itcanbeusedincon-junctionwithmanyother in illsonthemarket toprovideasafeandmorerealisticplayingsurface.Theroundshapeplaysanintegralpartinthesyn-theticturfsystem.Itisimportantthatsilicasandhaveahighpurity(greaterthan90%)toresistcrushingandabsorptionofbacteriaandother ieldcon-taminants. Silica sand can either be coated with different materials as astandaloneproductorcanbeusedto irmupincombinationwithtradition-alcrumbrubberin illsystems.

2.6.5 Coated Silica Sand:This class of in ill consists of coated, high-purity silicasandwitheitherasoftorrigidcoatingspeci icallyengineeredforsyntheticturf. Thesecoatingsareeitherelastomericoracrylic innature(non-toxic)andformabondwiththesandgrainsealingitfrombacteriatoprovidesu-perior performance and durability over the life of a ield. Coated sand isavailableinvarioussizestomeettheapplication’sneeds.

2.6.6 CrumbRubber:CrumbRubberisderivedfromscrapcarandtrucktiresthataregroundupandrecycled.Twotypesofcrumbrubberin illexist:AmbientandCryogenic. Together thesemakeup themostwidely used in ill in thesyntheticsports ieldandlandscapemarket.Crumbrubberin illissubstan-tiallymetal free,and,accordingtotheSTC’sGuidelinesforCrumbRubberIn-illUsedinSyntheticTurfFields, should not contain liberated iber in anamountthatexceeds.01%ofthetotalweightofcrumbrubber,or.6lbs.perton.

2.6.7 CoatedRubber:Bothambientandcryogenicrubbercanbecoatedwithcol-orants,sealers,oranti-microbialsubstances ifdesired.Coatedrubberpro-videsadditionalaestheticappeal,reductionofdustbyproductsduringthemanufacturingprocessandcompleteencapsulationoftherubberparticle.

2.6.8 Hybrid:Constitutes theuseof sand, rubber, orother suitablematerials invariouscombinations.(Thisshouldnotbeconfusedwithhybridcarpetsys-temsthatconsistofacombinationof ibertypes.)


7STC©November2011

3.PerformanceEvaluationofSyntheticTurf

(ForTestsandCriteria,refertoAppendixA,Tables1-7)

3.1 Player-Surface Interaction: Player-surface interaction describes the performancecharacteristics of the ield that relate to footing, shock absorbency, surface abra-sion, and surface stability, for example. These characteristics are determinedthrough testing forverticaldeformation, force reduction, traction, slip resistance,energyrestitution,andabrasiveness,amongothers.Propershoeselectionisanim-portantfactorinthewayaplayerinteractswiththeplayingsurface.

3.1.1 Traction:Thesurfaceshouldprovidegoodtraction inall typesofweatherwith the use of conventional athletic type shoes applicable to the sportsand/oractivityspeci ied.

3.1.2 RotationalResistance:Thesurfaceshouldallowfortwistingmovementsasiscommon inathleticactivities.Rotational resistancemeasures theabilityoftheusertoperformtwistingmotionswhenincontactwiththesurface.

3.1.3 SlipResistanceComponent:Thesystemshouldenableapredictablerangeofmovementbetweentheuserandthesurfaceuniformlythroughout.Thesurface should balance traction and slippage byway of the sliding coef i-cient.

3.1.4 SurfaceAbrasiveness:The ieldsurfaceshouldhave ibersandin illmateri-alsthatminimizeskinabrasions.

3.1.5 ImpactAttenuation(g-max):The ieldsurfaceshouldhavetheabilitytoad-equatelyabsorbplayerimpactwiththesurface.Theg-maxandforcereduc-tiontestsaretwoteststypicallyused.ThecurrentASTMstandardforg-maxisamaximumvalueof200ateachtestpoint.g-Maxvaluesmayvaryfromlocationtolocationonaplayingsurface.Suchvariancesshallbetakenintoaccountwhensettingmaximumtestvalues.Amaximum,not-to-exceedlim-it, should be speci ied for the life of thewarranty. The STC’s guideline isthatg-maxshouldbebelow165forthelifeofthe ield.

3.1.6 Surface Stability (vertical deformation): The surface should provide ade-quatestabilitysothattheathletecanmaintainbodycontroltohelppreventorproperlycontrolcontactbetweenathletes.Thisisanimportantconsider-ationthatshouldbebalancedwiththesurfaces’abilitytoabsorbimpact.Ifthesurfaceistoosoft,thestabilityprovidedbythe ieldmaynotbeoptimalforplayermovementandbodycontrol.


8STC©November2011

3.2 Ball-Surface Interaction:Ball-surface interactiondescribes theperformance char-acteristicsofthe ieldthatrelatetothewaysinwhichtheballreactstothesurface.The ieldsurfaceshouldprovideconsistentandpredictableballperformancereac-tioncharacteristics.

3.2.1 Surface Uniformity: The synthetic turf playing ield should be as level aspractical. The synthetic surface shall provide a true and uniform playingsurfacethroughout.

3.2.2 BallBounce:Thesyntheticturf ieldshouldprovideaballbounceasclosetothe optimal playing characteristics of the sport or sports. The publishedstandards for the regulatory organizations as applicable for each sportshouldbereferenced.Thechoiceof ibertypeandin illcombinationcanaf-fect ball bounce and in some cases promote greater “in ill splash” whichmaynotbedesirabledependingontheactivityandlevelofcompetition.

3.2.3 BallRoll:Thesyntheticturf ieldshouldprovideaballrollasclosetoopti-malplayingcharacteristicsoftheintendedsportorsports.Thechoiceof i-bertypeandin illcombinationaswellasthelevelandtypeofmaintenancecanaffectballroll.Thepublishedstandardsfortheregulatoryorganizationsasmaybeapplicableforeachsportshouldbereferenced.

3.3 Appearance:Unlessotherwisedictatedbydesign,thesyntheticturfshouldhaveaconsistentcolor,texture,andshadewithoutsigni icantlynoticeablestreaksoroth-erirregularitieswhenobservedinanydirection.

3.4 Quality Control: The synthetic turf systems builder’s quality control programshouldbeevaluatedwiththesystem.Thereshouldbeanunderstandingbetweentheownerandthesyntheticturfsystemsbuilderrelativetotheinitialinstallationandongoingtestingresponsibility,methods,andprotocol.Attheowner’soptionanindependent third party testing agency or laboratory experiencedwith syntheticturfshouldtestforcomplianceandacceptance.

3.5 Warranty: All of the proposed warranty documents should be obtained and thecontentthoroughlyreviewedtoensureadequatecoverageiscontainedtherein.

3.5.1 Warrantor: The history and warranty performance of each warrantorshouldbeobjectivelyresearched.

3.5.2 Importantconsiderationsinreviewingsyntheticturfsystemwarrantiesare:

Whowillbehonoringthewarrantywhenthe ieldiscompleted?

Isthewarrantypro-ratedornotpro-ratedbasedontheageofthe ield?


9STC©November2011

Whatisthedurationofthewarranty(3years,5years,other)

Haseach systemcomponentbeen clearlyde inedand/ordescribed in thespeci icationandwarranty?

Whatisspeci icallyincludedorexcludedandwhatisnotmentionedorcov-ered?

Arethereanylimitationsastonotice,expiration,extenuatingcircumstancesornatureoftheremedy?

Can inalwarrantiesbechangedunilaterallywithoutmutualconsent?

Havethepossibilitiesofknownriskstotheusersofthesystembeenstatedinwriting?

What conditions can void thewarranty; e.g. the lack of routine, incorrectmaintenance,ortheuseofunapprovedmaintenanceequipment?

Whatmonitoringmeasuresareacceptabletoallparties?

3.5.3 Warrantiesforthesyntheticturf ieldsystemsshouldbeclearlyunderstoodandmayincludethefollowing:

Acceptableusesforthe ield

Expectednumberofyearlyhoursofuseofthe ield

Typeofshoesused

Fading

Colormatchwithinspeci ications

Excessive iberwear

Acceptablelossofpileheightovertime

Wrinklingandpanelmovement

Shockabsorbency(g-max)

Seamintegrity

Drainage

Responsetimeforrequiredrepairs/replacement

Approvedmaintenanceequipment

Otheritemsdeemedrelevant

3.5.4 Severalpartiesmaybeinvolvedinprovidingthe inishedsystem.Theremaybeblanketwarrantycoverageoreachparty;i.e.,vendor,supplier,manufac-turer, installation and maintenance contractor may provide separate andlimitedcoveragethatshouldbeclearlyde ined.Itshouldalsobeclearexact-


10STC©November2011

lywhocoverswhat,withspecialattentiongiventothecoverageoftheturfiberasitrelatestopossibledamageduringthetufting,coating,installationandmaintenanceprocesses.

3.5.5 Quali ication:Considerationshouldbegiventotheexperienceandquali ica-tion of the manufacturer and installation contractor of the synthetic turfsystem,andtheirmaintenanceandrepairpersonnel.

3.6 Maintenance:Maintaining a synthetic turf ield is essential for optimum appear-ance,safety,playingperformance,and ieldlongevity.Aregularscheduleofmainte-nanceshouldincludesurfacecleaning,debrisremoval,grooming,andin illreplen-ishment, redistribution, and de-compaction. The maintenance procedures andequipment,asspeci iedby thesynthetic turf systembuilderandrequired for thesystem, shouldbeevaluatedduring the selectionprocess so that theappropriatebudget resources formanpowerand equipmentmaybe allocated.Note:Refer tothe Synthetic Turf Council’s GuidelinesfortheMaintenanceofIn illedSyntheticTurfSurfaces,January2013,foradditionalinformation.

3.7 OtherConsiderations:Provisions thatcouldpreventabreakdown incommunica-tionoradelayintheprocessshouldbeincluded.

3.7.1 Review and approvals prior to work: The synthetic turf systems builder,withoutliabilityorlegalresponsibilityforthebase(unlessthebaseispartof theirscopeofwork)shouldperformaninspectionofthe ieldplanaritybaseontowhichthesyntheticturfsystemistobeinstalledandtoexaminethe inishedsurfaceforrequiredcompaction,waterpermeability,andgradetolerances.Afteranydiscrepanciesbetweentherequiredmaterials,applica-tion and tolerance requirements noted have been corrected, the owner’srepresentative(architect/engineer)shouldreviewandapproveforcompli-ancewith documents. The acceptance of the base construction should beincludedinthecerti icationforwarrantyvalidation.

3.7.2 ExtraMaterials:Uponrequestandagreedcompensationpriortothemanu-facturingof the ield, thesynthetic turfmanufacturerand installationcon-tractor can provide extra sections of synthetic turfmaterial for future re-pairs.Ifnecessary,thisshouldincludematerialsforallcolorsusedwithanylines,markings,and logos.Quantities tobepredetermined.Thisallowsformaterialsfromthesamemanufacturingruntobeutilizedforminorrepairs.

Storage:ExtraMaterialsshouldbestoredunrolledoutsidesothatanyfad-ingasaresultofUVexposurewillbeconsistentwiththeinstalledmaterial.


11STC©November2011

4.EvaluationofSystemComponents

(ForTestsandCriteria,refertoAppendixA,Tables1-7)

4.1 DrainageSystem:Anef icientandeffectiveundergrounddrainagesystemisanin-tegralcomponentofasyntheticturfsystem,andisdesignedtocarryawaythewa-terthatpercolatesthroughtheturf.Thesystemchosenwilldependontheuseofthe ield,climate,amountofrainfallandotherfactors.

4.1.1 Components:Thedrainagesystemmayincludethesyntheticturf,pad,basematerialsandcollectorpipesthatcollectandremovestormwaterfromtheplaying ield. The design of the drainage system is dependent upon localconditions,climates,andsiteconstraints.TheRationalMethod,HydrographAnalysis,orTimeSeriesMethodmaybeusedtodeterminetherainfallrun-offthatmustbeaccommodatedbycollectorpipes.

4.1.2 Site Conditions: Rainfall duration intensity curves can be developed fromtheNationalWeatherServiceTechnicalPaperTP-40RainfallFrequencyAt-lasfortheUnitedStatesorcoordinatedwiththelocalweatherstatisticsatthelocationoftheprojectsite.Otherwise,unlessagreedtobytheenduser,the design storm frequency should be as required by local regulations.Wherenolocalregulationexists,aminimum5-yeardesignstormfrequencyisrecommendedforplaying ieldsatgrade.For ieldsrequiringpumpsta-tions,amoreconservativedesignfrequencythatiscompatiblewiththede-signcapacityofthepumpstationshouldbeused.

4.1.3 FlowTime:Thetimeintervalforwaterto lowthroughthecompletesystemtothecollectorpipesisbasedonpermeabilitytestsconductedinthelabora-toryforthedesignofthecompletesystem.Flowthroughthebasematerialcanbeenhancedbytheuseofcompositedrainagematerialsorlateraldrainpipes that intercept thenormal lowofwater in the complete systemandlowdirectlytothecollectorpipes.Flowrateintothelateraldrainagesys-temisdependentontheamountofavailableopenspaceforwatertoenterthepipe.Thegeotextilecoveronmanycompositedrainscanhavevaryingeffects onhow fastwater can enter the systemover time. Care should betakeninevaluatingtheseproductsandhowthechosenbasematerialscanaffectwaterin- lowovertime.

4.1.4 CollectorPipes: Collectorpipes are typicallyperforatedpolyvinyl chloride(PVC)orpolyethylene(PE)pipes.Sizeandtypeofperforationsaredepend-entuponthesizeofthepipe.Ifperforationsarelargerthanthesmallestag-gregateinthebasematerialthenageo-textilesock iltermaybeusedtoen-


12STC©November2011

capsulatethepipe—careshouldbetakentoensurethattheopeningsinthegeo-textile fabricarecompatiblewith thegranularsmallercomponentssothattheydonotblocktheporesandreducewater low.Aquali iedcivilorgeotechnical engineer should be consulted to determine the suitability ofusingaproductwithageo-textilesockinconjunctionwiththeselectedbasematerialsastheycanclogthesockovertimeandseverelyimpedetheper-formance of the system. Additionally the compressive strength of varioussystems can differ greatly and care should be taken to keep constructiontraf icoffofthesystemsuntilenoughstonehasbeenplacedandcompacted.

4.1.5 Drainage: The expected performance evaluation and the systems usedshouldundergoanindependentengineeringanalysis.

4.2 BaseMaterials:Theaggregatebaseonwhichthesyntheticturfisinstalledprovidesastructurallysoundfoundationfor ieldconstruction,andamediafordrainageofthe ield.Thebasematerials are critical to theperformanceof the entire systemand should contain thenecessary components and characteristics to satisfy localconditions.Agoodgeotechnicalreportwillprovideessentialinformationfora irmand stable base for the synthetic turf. A base that is properly designed and con-structedshouldgive theownerseveralyearsofuseand last throughseveral turfreplacements.Theuseofdesignprofessionalsandbuilderswithdemonstratedex-pertiseandsuccessinthedevelopmentofsyntheticturfsystemsishighlyrecom-mended.

4.2.1 Soil Separator: Depending on the local site conditions, a geo-textile fabricmaybeplacedovertheentiresub-gradeandwithinthepipetrenchespriorto the installation of the basematerials tominimize contamination of theaggregateandpossiblecloggingoftheperforateddrainagepipes.Wheresoilconditionswarrant,apolyethylene,PVC,orother impermeablesheet linermaybeusedinlieuofthegeo-textiletoinhibitstormwaterin iltrationintothesubsoil.

4.2.2 Aggregate:Theaggregatematerialsutilizedtoconstructthe ieldbasemustbeaproperlygradedwashedcrushedstonetoprovideabalancebetweenstability andpermeability.Ahighly fracturedmaterial is desirable topro-vide the surface stability required for the synthetic turf surfacing, supple-mentalpaddingorporouspavingasapplicable.Thegradedaggregateparti-clesizesmustbetightlycontrolledtofallwithinthebandwidthforallspeci-iedsievesizeswithjustenough inestoprovidestabilitywhilestillallow-ing for suf icient drainage. Minimum stability and permeability require-mentsshouldbedeterminedandcon irmedbyanindependentcerti iedla-


13STC©November2011

boratorypriortoconstructionofthebasecourse.

4.2.3 Compaction: The basematerials should be thoroughly compacted to pre-ventdifferentialsettlementacrossthe ieldarea.Minimumcompactionlev-elstypicallyshouldnotbelessthan95%densityasmeasuredbyastandardproctortest.Specialattentionshouldbegiventoback illcompactionofanyutility trenches that cross the ield area. Care should also be takennot toovercompact,whichcouldaffectdrainage.

4.2.4 Pavement:Ifpavementisrequiredbydesign,thebasematerialsmaybepo-rousorconventionalasphalt.Thismaterialisinstalledoverapermeableag-gregatebaseandasubsurfacedrainagesystem.Theporouspavementmate-rialmustbemanufacturedwithtightqualitycontrolonasphaltcontent,aswellasthegradationoftheaggregateusedinthemix.Thisaggregateshouldhavealimitedamountof inestoallowforef icientwaterpermeability.Useof conventional asphalt paving will require a sloped ield with either acrownoracrossslope.Considerationshouldbegiventotheuseofadrain-agematoranelasticlayerpadsystembetweentheturfbackingandthesur-faceofthepavement.This,alongwiththeinstallationofperiodicintercep-tor drains, should allow for horizontalwatermovement below the ield’ssurface.Withouttheuseofthesematerials,thein illlayerwillbecomesatu-ratedduringperiodsofheavyrainfallandtheremaybemigrationofthein-illmaterialswiththesurfacewatermovement.

4.2.5 WaterPermeability:Waterpermeabilityratesforboththe ield’ssurfacingand the ieldbasematerials shouldbedesigned toaccommodate the localweatherpatternsandstormwatermanagementregulations.Thepermeabil-ity of both the ield surface and thebasematerialswill typicallydecreaseover the lifeof the ield.Anadequate factorofsafetyshouldbeutilizedtoprovideinitialin iltrationratesforthecompleted ieldabovethoserequiredbythelocalweatherconditions.

4.3 ShockAbsorbingResilientUnderlaymentSystems:Theshockabsorbingelements,aspartoftheoverallsyntheticturfsystem,shouldmeetorexceedtheperformanceofthedesignandspeci ication.

4.3.1 Insitu Cushion Layer (elastic layer pad): If included in the design, thesecushionsystemsshouldbeinstalledinplacewithspecializedpavingequip-ment.

4.3.1.1 Physical Characteristics: These systems are typically comprised ofSBR rubber granules boundwith a single component polyurethane


14STC©November2011

binder.Smallroundedpeagravelaggregateorothersuitablemateri-alscanalsobeincorporatedwiththerubberandurethanematerials.The irmnessofthesystemcanbeadjustedwiththesizeandthepro-portionsof the rubbergranulesandaggregatematerials, aswell aswith the amount of polyurethane binder used and the thickness ofthelayer.

4.3.1.2 Performance Characteristics: The selection of the cushion layersshouldbe closely coordinatedwith theperformance characteristicsof the synthetic turf utilized. The cushion layers should provideshock absorptionwithout compromising footingand surface stabil-ity.

4.3.1.3WaterPermeabilityRate:Theinsitucushion-layersystemsaretypi-cally permeable. The percolation rate for the insitu cushion layersshouldbewellinexcessofprecipitationrates.

4.3.2 PrefabricatedCushionLayers(Pad):Ifincludedinthedesign,thesecushionlayers are amanufactured product comprised of rolls or tiles of resilientmaterial installed under and occasionally adhered to the synthetic turfbacking.

4.3.2.1Physical Characteristics: Prefabricated cushion layers are typicallycomprisedofrubber,polyurethanefoam,orothersuitablematerials.TherubberpadsareSBRrubber ibersorgranulesbound togetherwithapolyurethanebinderandusuallycomeasrollorpiecegoodsandshouldbepermeable.Thefoamcushionlayersaretypicallypoly-urethane or polyvinyl chloride and should bewater permeable fordrainage.

4.3.2.2Performance Characteristics: The selection of the cushion layersshouldbe closely coordinatedwith theperformance characteristicsandrequirementsofthesyntheticturfsystemutilized.Thecushionlayersshouldprovideshockabsorptionwithoutcompromisingfoot-ingand/orsurfacestability.

4.3.2.3WaterPermeabilityRate:Dependingonthe inalconstructionofthepad system, the systemmaybeormaynotbepermeable towater.Unless the system is permeable by designwith adequate drainage,perforations should be put through all of the cushioning layers toprovideforadequatedrainagethroughthesystemasspeci ied.

4.3.3 In illMaterials: In illmaterials are comprisedof rubber, sand, elastomers,


15STC©November2011

organicsand/orothersuitablematerials,orcombinationsthereofwhichareplacedontopofthesyntheticturfbackingsystemandbetweenthesynthet-icsurface ibers.Thisisneededforresiliencyaswellasstructuralintegrityanddirectionalstability.Thismaterialisutilizedtodayinthevastmajorityofsynthetic turfsystemswith theexceptionof the traditionalknittedsyn-theticturfsystems.(AlsoaddressedinSection4.6)

4.4 IrrigationSystemIntroduction:Theinstallationofamanualorautomaticirrigationsystem can be considered for synthetic turf installations. Guidelines onwhethersynthetic ieldsarewateredaredeterminedbyfactorssuchasregion,climate,turfmaterial,playertraf ictypeandlevelofgamesplayed.

4.4.1 Player Comfort: High ield temperatures can prove challenging to playersthroughoutwarmerclimates.Wateringenablesthe ieldtobecooled.Testsshowapproximatereductioninsurfacetemperatureof46degreesFahren-heitwith 10minutes of appliedwatering using a high volume long rangepopupsprinklers.(Resultsderivedfromaheightof2inchesabovein illedsyntheticturf.)

4.4.2 Fieldsanitation:Fieldcleansingandsanitationcanbeimprovedwithwater-ingfromanirrigationsystem,particularlyinclimatesthatexperienceverylittlerainfallfornaturalcleansing.

4.5 SyntheticTurf:Thesyntheticturfsurfaceshouldprovidetheperformancecharac-teristics, components, and construction thatmeet the needs of the declared useand/orfunctions.Thesyntheticturfsystemandallofitscomponentsshouldbere-sistant tomoisture, rot,mildew,bacteria, fungusgrowth,ultraviolet raydegrada-tionatall ieldlocations,andmeetlocalcodeandenvironmentalrequirements.

4.5.1 SyntheticTurf Construction andComponents shouldbenon-toxic andnotcause commonly known allergic reactions. Each synthetic turf systemshould be constructed to providedimensional stability and resist damagefromwearandtearduringathleticandrecreationalusage.

4.5.2 Fibers forTuftedorKnittedSystems:Typically the iberused in syntheticturfistexturedand/ornon-texturedpolypropylene,polyethylene,ornylonintapeformormono ilament.Minimum ibersizesare50micronsforpoly-propyleneandpolyester,100micronsfortape(slit ilm)formpolyethylene,140-300formono ilamentpolyethylene(shapedependent)and500denierfornylon.

4.5.3 FibersforKnittedSystems:Typicallythe ibersusedforknittedsystemsareNylon6.6orNylon6of500-650denier,texturizedmono ilaments.


16STC©November2011

4.5.4 PrimaryBackingSystems:Theprimarybackingmaterialsshouldbeeitherhigh strengthpolyestermulti- ilaments utilized in theknitting process, orwoven,non-woven, orother suitablematerials inoneormore layers, uti-lizedinthetuftingprocess.

4.5.5 SecondaryBackingSystems:Thesecondarybackingmaterialsshouldbeap-pliedthroughacoatingprocessthatcanbesingleormultipleapplicationsofoneorseveraldifferentmaterials.Aknittedturffabricshouldreceiveanini-tial acrylic coating and could be followed by different options of suitablepolyurethane,latexand/orothercoatingsinvariousweightsandthicknesscon igurations,dependingonindividualsystemdesign.Atuftedturf fabricshould receive a suitable polyurethane or latex pre-coat or an acceptableperformance-basedequal,whichthencanbefollowedbyanattachedcush-ionora laminatedsecondarybackingutilizingasuitablepolyurethane, la-tex,oracceptableperformance-basedequal.Thepurposeofthesecondarybackingistoenhancethetuftbindandstructuralintegrityoftheturfcom-ponents. In cases where an increased level of system performance is de-sired,multiple layers of secondary backingmaterials of different physicalcharacteristicscanbeapplied.

4.5.6 Water Permeability Rate: Depending on the inal construction of the turfsystem, the systemmaybeormaynotbepermeable towater.Unless thesystemispermeablebydesignwithadequatedrainage,perforationsshouldbeputthroughallofthebackingcoatingstoprovideforadequatedrainagethroughthesystemasspeci ied.

4.5.7 Seams:Newsyntheticturfcarpetsaremanufacturedinpanelsorrollsthataretypicallyanominal15feetwide.Eachpanelorrollshouldbeattachedtothenextwithaseamtoformtheplayingsubstrateofthe ield.Seamsshouldbegluedwithasupplementalbackingmaterialorsewnwithhighstrengthsewingthread.Thebondingorfasteningofallsystemmaterialcomponentsshouldprovideapermanent,tight,secure,andhazard-freeathleticplayingsurface.

4.5.8 Adhesive: Industrialadhesives,productsnot found inhomesupplystores,areusedtobondsyntheticturfseamsandinserts,and,insomeapplications,foratotalgluedownofthesyntheticturf tothebase.Syntheticturfadhe-sives should be applied by experienced, professional installers. The adhe-sives shouldprovidea strong,hazard-free, anddurablebondbetween theadjacentturfpanelsorsectionsandtobeusableforinstallationundervari-able weather conditions. The adhesive should also be resistant to water,


17STC©November2011

fungus, and mildew. Synthetic turf adhesives include: one-part adhesives(urethanes), two-part (epoxy or urethane), hot melt, and water-based(latex).

4.5.9 Seaming Tape: Seaming tape is commonly used for seams and/or inlaidlines and markings. The tape is comprised of a fabric that should be in-stalledbelowthebackingmaterialonbothsidesofaseamorinlay.Thefab-ricusedforseamingtapeshouldprovidedimensionalstrengthandenoughsurfacetextureandwidthtobondwellwiththeadhesiveandtheturfback-ingmaterialoneachsideoftheseam.

4.6 In illMaterial: In illmaterialsarecomprisedofrubber,sand,elastomers,organicsand/orothersuitablematerials,orcombinationsthereofwhichareplacedontopofthesyntheticturfbackingandbetweenthesyntheticsurface ibers.

4.6.1 EPDM (Ethylene PropyleneDieneMonomer) is a polymer elastomerwithhighresistancetoabrasionandwearandwillnotchangeitssolidformun-derhigh temperatures.TypicalEPDMcolorsaregreenand tan.EPDMhasprovenitsdurabilityasanin illproductinalltypesofclimates.Itsexcellentelasticitypropertiesandresistancetoatmosphericandchemicalagentspro-videastable,highperformancein illproduct.

4.6.2 TPE(Thermoplasticelastomer)in illisnon-toxic,heavymetalfree,availa-bleinavarietyofcolorsthatresistfading,verylonglasting,and100%recy-clableandreusableasin illwhenthe ieldisreplaced.TPEin ill,whenuti-lizingvirgin-basedresins,willofferconsistentperformanceandexcellentg-maxoverawidetemperaturerange.

4.6.3 Organics:Thereareseveralorganic in illsavailable intheNorthAmericanmarket,allutilizingdifferentorganiccomponents,suchasnaturalcorkand/orground ibersfromtheoutsideshellofthecoconut.Theseproductscanbeutilizedinprofessionalsportsapplicationsaswellasforlandscaping.Attheendofitslifecycleitcanberecycleddirectlyintotheenvironment.

4.6.4 SilicaSand:Puresilicasandisoneoftheoriginalin illingmaterialsutilizedinsyntheticturf.Thisproductisanaturalin illthatisnon-toxic,chemicallystable and fracture resistant. Silica sand in ills are typically tan, off-tanorwhiteincolorand—dependinguponplantlocation—mayberoundorsub-roundinparticleshape.Asanaturalproductthereisnopossibilityofheavymetals,andthedust/turbidityratingislessthan100.Itcanbeusedincon-junctionwithmanyother in illsonthemarket toprovideasafeandmorerealisticplayingsurface.Theroundshapeplaysanintegralpartinthesyn-


18STC©November2011

theticturfsystem.Itisimportantthatsilicasandhaveahighpurity(greaterthan90%)toresistcrushingandabsorptionofbacteriaandother ieldcon-taminants. Silica sand can either be coated with different materials as astandaloneproductorcanbeusedto irmupincombinationwithtradition-alcrumbrubberin illsystems.

4.6.5 Coated Silica Sand:This class of in ill consists of coated, high-purity silicasandwitheitherasoftorrigidcoatingspeci icallyengineeredforsyntheticturf.Thesecoatingsareeitherelastomericoracrylic innature (non-toxic)andformabondwiththesandgrainsealingitfrombacteriatoprovidesu-perior performance and durability over the life of a ield. Coated sand isavailableinvarioussizestomeettheapplication’sneeds.

4.6.6 CrumbRubber:CrumbRubberisderivedfromscrapcarandtrucktiresthataregroundupandrecycled.Twotypesofcrumbrubberin illexist:ambientand cryogenic. Together thesemake up themostwidely used in ill in thesyntheticsports ieldandlandscapemarket.Crumbrubberin illissubstan-tiallymetal free,and,accordingtotheSTC’sGuidelinesforCrumbRubberIn-ill, shouldnotcontain liberated iber inanamount thatexceeds0.01%ofthetotalweightofcrumbrubber,or0.6lbs.perton.

4.6.7 CoatedRubber:Bothambientandcryogenicrubbercanbecoatedwithcol-orants,sealers,oranti-microbialsubstances ifdesired.Coatedrubberpro-videsadditionalaestheticappeal,reductionofdustbyproductsduringthemanufacturingprocessandcompleteencapsulationoftherubberparticle.

4.6.8 Hybrid:Constitutes theuseof sand, rubber, orother suitablematerials invariouscombinations.(Thisshouldnotbeconfusedwithhybridcarpetsys-temsthatconsistofacombinationof ibertypes.)

4.7 LinesandMarkings:Constructionandmaterialsusedshouldbeharmoniouswiththesyntheticsurface.

4.7.1 Installation: Lines andmarkings should be installed on the synthetic turfsurfaceinoneofthreemethods:withpaint,withcolored iberthatiseithertuftedorknittedintothesyntheticturfpanels,orinstalledasinlays.Tufted-inorinlaidlinesandmarkingsareapermanentpartofthesurface.

4.7.2 Permanency:Paintedlinesandmarkingsinstalledwitheitherpermanentortemporarypaint requiremaintenance.Evenpermanentlypainted lines re-quireadditionalpaintonaperiodicbasis.

4.7.3 Consistency:Synthetic turfand ibersutilized for the tuftedor inlaid lines


19STC©November2011

andmarkings shouldbe similar to thatused inall otherareasof the ieldandinstalledtothesametolerances.

4.8 Inserts:Theyare typicallyusedonmulti-sport ields.Theycan includecovers forgoalsleevesandanchorsandconversionofbaseballin ieldclayareastosyntheticturf.

4.8.1 Consistency:Thesyntheticturfusedfortheinsertsshouldbesimilartothatusedintheareaadjacenttotheinsert.

4.8.2 Installation: The inserts should be anchored securely to the surroundingareassothattheycannotbedisplacedbytheactivitiesoccurringonthe ieldandinstalledtothesametolerances.


20STC©November2011

5.ConstructionandInstallation

5.1 Inspection:Syntheticmaterialsshouldbeinspectedpriortoinstallationfor:

Damagedordefectivegoods

Missinggoodsorquantities

Correct ibertype

Correctturfpileheightandweight

Propertuftbind

Correctbackingperforationdiameterandspacing,ifapplicable

Materialsoutoftolerancewiththespeci ication

5.2 Sub-GradePreparation:Thesub-gradeshouldprovideastabilizedfoundationuponwhichbasematerialsandsubsequentcomponentsofplaying ieldsystemswillbeinstalled.

5.2.1 Function:Itshouldalsoprovidethepitchedsurfaceonwhichstormwaterisdirectedtowardtheactivedrainagesystemforevacuation.

5.2.2 ShapeandCompaction:Priortoplacementofbasematerials,thesub-gradeshouldbeshapedtoanappropriatepro ileandcompactedbyproofrollingtoobtaina irmevensurface.Depressedareasshouldbe illedandunsuita-blematerialsremovedandreplacedwithclean illoraggregate.Compactionshould be performed to achieve a minimum of 95% in accordance withASTM D698 Standard Proctor Method. The appropriate moisture contentmustbemaintainedinthe ieldsub-gradetoallowforoptimallevelsofcom-paction.

5.2.3 Sub-Grade (Rough) Planarity: The tolerances for the inished sub-gradeshould not exceed one-half (1/2”) inch asmeasured by a 10-foot straightedge(13mmin3m).Gradingofthesub-gradeshallminimizepondingtotheextentpractical.Theuseoflaserguidedandcontrolledequipmentishighlyrecommendedforsub-gradepreparation.

5.3 Aggregate: Installation of the aggregate base should provide a close, evenly tex-turedsurfacemeetingtherequiredtolerances.

5.3.1 Construction:Extremecareshouldbetakentoensurethatthere isnodis-turbancetothesub-gradeandthatthereisnodisplacementofthesoilsepa-rator.Alldisturbed,displaced,ordamagedmaterialistoberepairedorre-placed.


21STC©November2011

5.3.2 Placement:Theaggregatebaseshouldbeplacedinamannerthatwillpro-duceauniformandevenlygradedmasstothespeci ieddepth.Thematerialshouldbeplacedandspreadbytheappropriateequipmentandmethodsinsuccessive horizontal layers not exceeding six (6) inches in depth. Careshouldbetakentoavoidoverworkingthematerial,whichcanaffectgrada-tion and uniformity, resulting in detrimental performance and drainagecharacteristics. Pockets that occur as a result of stone segregation duringinstallationshouldberemovedandreplaced.Aftercorrectplacement,eachliftshallbeuniformlycompactedwithaself-propelledrollertoachievethespeci ieddensity.

5.3.3 Compaction: The ield basematerials should be thoroughly compacted toprevent any signi icantdifferential settlement across the areaof syntheticturfsurfacing.Typicalminimumcompactionlevelsare95%StandardProc-torforthebasematerials.Theappropriatemoisturecontentmustbemain-tainedinthebasematerialstoallowforoptimallevelsofcompaction.

5.3.4 Finish-GradePlanarity (surface tolerances): Irregularities in thesurfaceofthebasematerialsaretypicallyre lectedinthe inished ieldsurface.There-fore, it is important to install the basematerials to controlled tolerances.Theuseof laserguidedandcontrolledequipment ishighly recommendedforsub-gradepreparation.Thelocaldeviationofthe inishedsurfaceofthebasestoneshouldnotexceed¼in.inanydirectionwhenmeasuredbeneatha10-footlongstraightedge(6mmin3m).Hollowsanddepressions,whichmayhavedevelopedduringtheprocessofcompactingthebase,shouldbeilledwithacceptablematerialandre-compacted.


22STC©November2011

5.4 ShockAbsorbingResilientUnderlaymentSystem:Thedesignofthesesystemsvar-iesandeachapproachshouldbecarefullyinstalledtomeettherequirementsoftheuser.

5.4.1 InsituCushion-Layer(ElasticLayerPad)Installation:Ifrequiredbydesign,theinsitucushionlayersshouldbeinstalledwithspecializedpavingequip-mentusedonlyforinsitupadorrubberizedrunningtracks.Thepavingma-chine should be operated by a minimum of two skilled technicians at alltimes.Allpavingseamsshouldbehandrolledandtroweled.Allcoldjointsinthepadshouldbepretreatedwithapolyurethaneprimer.Thespeci iedthicknessoftheinsitupadshouldbecontinuouslymonitoredforconsisten-cy. The components of the insitucushion layers should be thoroughlymixed. The mixing ratios should also be monitored for consistency. Thecushion-layersystemshouldbesecurelyplacedonthe ieldbasematerials.The insitucushion surface should not vary more than ¼ in. in 10 ft. asmeasuredinanydirectionwithastringlineorstraightedge(6mmin3m).

5.4.2 Seam Installation: If required by design, prefabricated cushion-layer sys-temsaretypicallyinstalledasrollorpiecegoods.Theheadseamsattheendofeachrollshouldbestaggeredacrossthe ield.Whenrequiredbythepad-dingmanufacturer,allgluedcushion-layerseamsshouldbebuttedtogetherandapermeableormeshtypefabricshouldbeadheredtothesurfaceofthecushionlayeratallseamlocationstobridgethecushion-layerjoints.(Thisdoesnotapplytosewnseams).

5.4.3 Resilient In ill: If required by design, the in illmaterial should be appliedwheninadryconditionandshouldnotbeappliedunlessthesyntheticturfis also dry. The in illmaterial should be applied in consistent layerswithmultiple applications. It is critical to insure that synthetic ibers are nottrappedunderneaththe in ill.Afterapplicationofeach layer, thesyntheticturfshouldbedraggedand/orbrushedaccordingtothemanufacturer’srec-ommendationsinordertoliftthe ibersanddistributethein illmaterialin-totheturfsysteminaconsistentmanner.Equipmentishoweveravailablethatcaninstallthein illmaterialsandsimultaneouslybrushthemintothecarpetpileinasinglepass.

5.5 IrrigationSystemDesignConsiderations:When the inclusionofan irrigationsys-temisdeemednecessaryorappropriateforaparticular ieldinstallationitishighlyrecommendedthatitbedesigned,reviewed,andapprovedbyarecognizedirriga-tionconsultant/designer.Anexperiencedirrigationdesignercanprovidenecessarysupport, advice and forsee any pit falls resulting in costly re-work and an underperformingsystem.


23STC©November2011

5.5.1 Requirements: A ield watering system may be required to meet the de-mandsofthegame,suchashighlevel ieldhockeycompetition.Eachprojectandsituationisunique.Factorssuchasthetimeallocatedtoirrigatebefore,during and sometimes after a match need consideration, this practice iscommontoensuretheplayersareofferedasafeandcontrollablegame.

5.5.2 Sprinkler Head Layout: Sprinklers located inside the ield of play are notgenerallyconsideredacceptable.Playersfallingonsprinklersthroughtack-les and other play activities are subject to injury risk. The installation ofmultiple in ield sprinklers isandcanaffect the turf’sadhesion to the ieldbase. This can have a negative affect on the completed turf planarity andconsistency.Useofagricultural,longrangesprinklergunsmountedonriserpostshasuntil recentlybeena commonpractice.Manufacturersnowpro-ducelongrangeperimeterpop-upsprinklers.Buriedatgradelevel,thepop-up sprinklers provide discrete, low level, unobtrusive, long range perfor-mancewiththeabilitytothrowbeyondthehalfwayline.

5.5.3 LayoutConsiderations:Typicalsprinklerinstallationdesignwouldallowforminimumspraydisruptionforslightwindconditions.Considerationforthespectatorsshouldbemettoensuretheydonotbecomeunnecessarilywetduringawateringcyclecausedbyincorrectlyadjustedarcsorill-positionedsprinklers.

5.5.4 ControlValves:High low,lowpressurelosselectricsolenoidvalvesshouldbeinstalled,thesearedesignedtoensuresprinklerperformanceisnotpro-hibitedandnecessaryforhighvolumeperimetersprinklers.

5.5.5 Controls:Conventionalirrigationschedulingisnotoftennecessarywithar-ti icial ieldwatering.Manuallyoperatingtheirrigationsystemprovesmorepopular than traditional timers. A simple controllermounted in a cabinetwithbuttonsprogrammedtoswitchonsolenoidvalvesforapre-settimeorsequenceisadequateforthegroundpersonnel.Remotecontrolisusefulforieldoperationandallowstheoperatortoensurethe ieldisclearofperson-nelhazardpriortooperation.

5.5.6 Adequatesafetyprecautionsonthe ieldsuchaswarningnoti icationsoundandvisualsafetymeasuresshouldbeobservedtoensureplayers,spectatorsandservicepersonnelarenotatriskfromthewaterjetasthesprinklersareactivated.

5.5.7 As anadditional safetyprecaution, a securitykey restrictingaccess to thecontrolpanelwillensureauthorizeduseonlyofthewateringsystem.


24STC©November2011

5.6 SyntheticTurfMaterial ProductionQualityAssurance/Quality Control: Testing ofmaterialsshouldbeperformedpriortoshipmentofproducttothejobsitetoavoidadditionalcostsordelay.

5.6.1 QualityAssuranceTesting:Priortoshipmentofthesyntheticturfandcom-ponentstothejobsite,thesyntheticturfrollsshouldberandomlysampledandtestedbythemanufacturerwhowillcertifythattheymeetthespeci i-cation.

5.6.2 RelevantCharacteristics:Testingtobeconductedshouldbeaprovision intheagreementbetweenthepartiesandmay includepilecomposition,pileweight, total weight, pile height, tuft bind (without in ill), and grab/tearstrength.

5.6.3 Labeling:Themanufacturer,athisoption,shouldconveyinwritingthetestresultsof therelevantcharacteristicsandcertify that theymeetorexceedthespeci icationrequirements.

5.7 SyntheticTurfInstallation:Allsyntheticturfsystemsshouldbeinstalledtoprovidestabilitythatwillpreventpanelsfromshiftingorbunching.

5.7.1 SeamingMethod:Thesyntheticturfpanelsshouldbesecurelyfastenedto-getherforthewarrantedlifeofthesystem.Theseseamsaretypicallygluedor sewn, themethod forwhich varies from system to system. Specializedsynthetic turf systems with are periodically removed and replaced mayhaveseams,whicharecomprisedofhookandloopfastenersorothereasilyattachablematerials.Seamgapsshouldbeminimalanduniform.Fortuftedin illsystemsthegapbetweenthe ibersshouldnotexceedthegaugeofthetufting.Forothersynthetic turf systems, theseamgapsshouldnotexceed1/16in.(2mm).

5.7.2 EdgeAnchoring:Theanchormayconsistofaconcretecurb,atreatedwoodheader,acompositematerialora trenchdrain.Thesemayvarybydesignandregion,butshouldalwaysprovideasecureanchor.

5.7.3 InlaidLinesandMarkings:Inlaidlinesandmarkingsshouldconsistofsyn-thetic turfwith contrasting colored iber installed in lieu of painted iber.Inlaygapsshouldbeuniform.Fortuftedsystems,thegapbetweenthe ibersshouldnot exceed thegaugeof the tufting. Lines andmarkingsmust con-formtotheappropriateassociationororganizationsuggestedguidelinesfortheintendedlevelofuse.

5.7.4 Temperature:Careshouldbetakenduringinstallationtoaccountforrapid


25STC©November2011

luctuations in temperature to avoid expansion and/or contractionwhichcanaffectthe inalinstallation.Temperatureextremesshouldalsobecare-fullymonitored.Thecarpetshouldneverberolledorunrolledwhenfrozen,whichcancausecrackingandirreparabledamagetothesecondarybacking.

5.8 In illMaterial Installation: Correct installation is critical to performance of thesesystemsandshouldfollowthemanufacturer’srecommendations.

5.8.1 EnvironmentalConditions:Itisrecommendedin illmaterialsshouldbein-stalledunderdry ieldconditions.

5.8.2 MethodofApplication:Thein illmaterialshouldbeinstalleduniformly.Theequipmentused for the applicationof the in illmaterials shoulderect theiber,place the in illmaterials,andshould incorporateameteringmethodto provide consistent distribution. The equipment utilized should not dis-tortordisplaceanybasematerialsordamagethesysteminanyway.

5.8.3 In illDepth:Thedepthof in ill canbemeasuredby taking thedepth fromthe top of the primary backing to the top of the in ill or subtracting thelengthofexposed iberfromtheknownpileheight.

5.8.4 g-MaxTesting:g-Maxtestingshouldalwaysbeperformedbyanindepend-enttestingcompanyorlab.

5.9 Fiber Conditioning: It is essential tomaintain the integrity anduniformity of theiber throughout the manufacturing, shipping and handling, installation andmaintenanceprocessesinordertopreventdamage,whichcouldalterthespeci iedperformanceandvoidthewarranty.


26STC©November2011

6.Maintenance

Maintainingasyntheticturf ieldisessentialforoptimumappearance,safety,playingper-formance,and ield longevity.Aregularscheduleofmaintenanceshould includesurfacecleaning, debris removal, grooming, and in ill replenishment, redistribution, and de-compaction. Themaintenance procedures and equipment, as speci ied by the syntheticturfsystembuilderandrequiredforthesystem,shouldbeevaluatedduringtheselectionprocessso that theappropriatebudgetresources formanpowerandequipmentmaybeallocated.Note: Refer to the STC’sSuggestedGuidelinesfortheMaintenanceofIn illedSyn-theticTurfSurfaces,April2007,foradditionalinformation.

6.1 Thesyntheticturfinstallationbuildershouldprovidedetailedwrittenmaintenanceinstructions,suggestedguidelinesforthesystem,andtrainingofmaintenanceper-sonnel. Maintenance of the systems typically consists of cleaning, stain removal,minor seamrepair,draggingor redistributionof any in illmaterial, andmanage-mentof in illcompaction.Aprimarygoalofgroomingmaintenanceistokeeptheibersstanding inanuprightposition,whichminimizeswearandUVdegradationandcanhaveabene icialeffectonperformance,playingcharacteristicsandlongev-ityofthe ield.Specializedequipmentistypicallyrequiredforthemaintenanceofthesurfaceandshouldbeincludedwiththe ieldcontract.Utilizingthisequipmentasrecommendedbytheinstallationbuilderwillgeneratethepropermaintenanceinrelationtoanyfuturewarrantyclaims.


27STC©November2011

6.2 MaintenanceMonitoring:Theowner/usershallberesponsibletomaintainalogofmaintenanceperformedonthe ieldasrecommendedandwarrantedbythebuild-er.

6.3 Cleaning:Theperiodicuseofavacuumorasweepershouldbeappliedtokeepthesynthetic surface clean.This equipment shouldbe compatiblewith synthetic turfields.Thistypicallymeanswidertiresandsofternylontypebrushes.Thecleaningactivitiesshouldconformtothewrittenmaintenancesuggestedguidelinesprovid-edbythesyntheticinstallationbuilder.

6.4 Irrigation System Maintenance: As with any irrigation system, maintenance andwinterdrain-downandpreparationincoldclimatesshouldbeobserved.

6.5 StainRemoval:Stainssuchastobacco,gum,etc.shouldberemovedassoonaspos-sibleaspertheinstallationbuilder’srecommendations.

6.6 Brushing:Thein illmaterialand ibersshouldbeperiodicallybrusheddependingonusetoevenoutanylowareasofin illmaterialsandtobrushthe ibersbacktoamore vertical alignment. The sand and rubber in ill materials can also have thecompactionreducedwiththeuseofmetaltines.Thebrushingactivitiesshouldcon-formtothewrittenmaintenancesuggestedguidelinesprovidedbytheinstallationbuilder.

6.7 SeamRepair:Seamsthatopenorbecomeloosemayrequiresomeimmediateandtemporary gluing until they can be inspected and corrected by the installationbuilder. The gluing should conform to thewrittenmaintenance suggested guide-linesprovidedbythesyntheticturfvendor.

7.Post-InstallationTesting

7.1 Schedule:Itisrecommendedthataminimumscheduleforon-goingtestingbein-cludedandunderstoodbythepartiestobeatleastattheendofyearoneandattheendofyearthree.Testingthereafterisattheowner’soption.

7.2 Theg-maxshouldbetestedinaccordancewiththeaboveschedule.

7.3 Inspectionoftheseamsandotherinstallationfeaturesshouldbemutuallyagreedtobythepartiesbutshouldbecompletednolessthanonetimeperyearorasstat-edinthemanufacturer’swarranty.

7.4 Governing Body Certi ication: Additional post construction performance testingmayberequiredfor ieldsusedforhigh levelcompetition.Contacttherespectivegoverningbodiesforthecurrentguidelines.


28STC©November2011

AppendixA—TestsandGuidelinesA. TestProtocolsand their respectiveSTCminimumsare for speci icpurposes suchas

thefollowing.

Performanceofthesystemand/or itsessentialcomponents is theprimaryobjec-tive.

Qualitycontrolanddeliveryofthematerialsasspeci ied.

Failurediagnosis,preventativemeasures,comparativeevaluations,safety,appear-ance,andcompliancewithcodesandregulations,etc.

B. Notalltestsarerequiredforeveryinstallation.Adesignprofessionalcanbestadviseonwhatsitetestsshouldbeconductedundergivencircumstances.

C. Tests in the laboratory and in the ield are to be utilized for a speci ic purpose andtheirprotocolsshouldbefollowedaspublishedbytheirrespectivestandardsorgani-zations.

D. Architects,designprofessionals,engineers,andconsultantshavetheresponsibilitytoreferonlytothetablesandchartsinthisGuidelinedocumentthatapplyspeci icallytotheneedsofthedesign,site,andtherequirementsoftheintendeduseasindicatedbytheowner/enduserand/orasmayberequiredtovalidatethewarrantiesoffered.

E. Allminimumvaluesshouldbeevaluatedastheyrelatetothesystemperformance.

F. Sitetestingshallbeatambientshadedairtemperatureof40–100°F.Laboratorytest-ing shall be at ambient indoor temperature unless otherwise speci ied by the testmethod.

G. Unlessotherwisespeci ied, ieldtestmeasurementsshallbemadeataminimumof6locations(mustavoidareaswhere2gluedseamscross).Testlocationsshallconformascloselyaspossibletothetestsitesspeci iedinASTMF1936( ieldusedprimarilyforNorthAmericanFootball)orFIFAHandbook3-06( ieldsmarkedforSoccer).

H. Allminimumandmaximumvaluestakeintoaccountacceptableindustrymanufactur-ingtolerancesof+/-2%ofthevariance.


29STC©November2011

Table1:BaseMaterials

* Determinationinthelab:Itisnecessarytosealthetestringtothebaseofthesample.Theedgesofthesamplemustalsobesealedtopreventanywaterfrom lowingaroundratherthanthroughthesample.

** Determinationinthe ield:Anexactsealistypicallynotattainableandthetestisnotasaccurate/reproducibleduetothelateral lowofwaterandtheproblemsofdetermin-ingtheareasthroughwhichthewateris lowing.

TestProperty MethodofDetermination STCGuidelines Lab/FieldTest

SizeofParticleMix ASTMD422Particle-SizeAnalysis Asperspeci ication Lab(onsitematerial)

Drainage

ASTMF1551/DIN18035:6Permeabilitytowater*

ASTMD2434Permeabilityofgranularsoils(constantheat)

Min.of0.01cm/s(14in.perhour)

Lab/Field**

Compaction(density)

ASTMD698Compactionusingstandardeffort

ASTMD2922Compactionofsoilinplacebynuclearmethods

TosetcriteriaforASTMD2922

Min.95%standardproctor

Lab/Field

FinalGradeASTMF2157Testmethodforbasematerialevenness

Lessthan¼in.over10ft.(6mmover1m)

Field


30STC©November2011

Table2:TurfCharacteristicsforTuftedIn illSystems

(Typicalforhighschool,collegiate,andprofessionalplay ields)


ManufacturerofSystem(name) Manufacturerdeclaration Notspeci ied N/A

PileFiberID Manufacturerdeclaration Notspeci ied N/A

PrimaryBackingSystemID Manufacturerdeclaration Notspeci ied N/A

SecondaryBackingSystemID Manufacturerdeclaration Polyurethane/Latex/Fabrics N/A

Pile(faceweight) ASTMD5848Min.30oz./sq.yd.(2”product)Min.38oz./sq.yd.(2.5”product)

Lab

PrimaryBackingSystemWeight ASTMD5848 Min.5.5oz./sq.yd. Lab

PileHeight ASTMD5823 Sportspeci icorasspeci ied Lab/Field

PileHeightaboveIn ill Measurement Mustmeetsystemsspecs Lab/Field

YarnThickness ASTMD3218Min.100microns(slit- ilm)Min.130micron(mono ilament)

Lab

YarnDenier ASTMD1577 Min.500(nylon) Lab

GrabTearStrength ASTMD5034 Min.150lbs. Lab

TuftBind ASTMD1335 >6.8lbs.or30N Lab

Flammability ASTMD2859PillBurn Passingresulttestedasinstalled Lab

ColorUniformity Visual Nosigni icantchange Lab/Field

SecondaryBackingSystemWeight ASTMD5848 Min.16oz./sq.yd. Lab


31STC©November2011

Table3:TurfCharacteristicsforKnittedTurfSystems



PileFiberID Manufacturerdeclaration Notspeci ied N/A


SecondaryBackingSystemID ManufacturerdeclarationGlued:AcrylicLooselaid:Polyurethaneoracrylic

N/A

Pile(faceweight) ASTMD5848 Min.55oz./sq.yd. Lab

PrimaryBackingSystemWeight ASTMD5848 Min.8oz./sq.yd. Lab

PileHeight ASTMD5823 Min.0.5in. Lab/Field

PileHeightaboveIn ill Measurement N/A Lab/Field

YarnThickness ASTMD3218Min.100micronsPEMin.50micronsPP

Lab




Flammability ASTMD2859PillBurnPassingresulttestedasin-stalled

Lab


SecondaryBackingSystemWeight ASTMD5848

Glued:Min.3oz./sq.yd.Looselaid:¼in.(6mm)pre-coatandattachedcushionweightcombinedismin.50oz./sq.yd.

Lab

RelativeAbrasiveness ASTMF1015 Measurement Lab


32STC©November2011

Table4:TurfCharacteristicsforTuftedPolypropylene(PP),Polyethylene(PE),orNylonSystems(non-in illsystems)



PileFiberID Manufacturerdeclaration Nylon6or6.6;PP,PE N/A


SecondaryBackingSystemID Manufacturerdeclaration Polyurethane N/A

Pile(faceweight) ASTMD5848 Min.48oz./sq.yd. Lab

PrimaryBackingSystemWeight ASTMD5848 Min.6oz./sq.yd. Lab

SecondaryBackingSystemWeight ASTMD5848 Min.16oz./sq.yd. Lab

PileHeight ASTMD5823orD6859 Min.0.45in. Lab/Field

PileHeightaboveIn ill Measurement N/A Lab/Field

FiberConditioning Manufacturerdeclaration Texturized N/A

YarnThickness ASTMD3218Min.75micronsPEMin.50micronsPP

Lab


YarnElongation ASTMD2256 N/A Lab


YarnBreakingLoad(tensilestrength)

ASTMD2256Manufacturerrecommendedspeci ication

Lab



Lab



33STC©November2011

Table5:In illProperties

Table6:ShockPadLayerProperties

Table7—PerformanceGuidelines

TheSyntheticTurfCouncil’sGuidelinesforSyntheticTurfPerformanceareincludedbyref-erence.Forafreecopy,pleasevisittheSTCResourceCenteratwww.syntheticturfcouncil.org.

TestPropertyMethodofDetermina-tion

STCGuidelinesLab/FieldTest

MaterialIdenti ication Manufacturerdeclaration Mustmeetsystemspeci ications N/A

GrainSize(particlesize)ASTMD422(soil)ASTMD5644(rubber)

Mustmeetsystemspeci ications Lab

DepthMeasurementfromtopofin illtosurfaceoffabric

Mustmeetsystemspeci icationatalllocations⅜in.(±9mm)

Lab/Field


Lab


TestPropertyMethodofDetermina-tion

STCGuidelinesLab/FieldTest

MaterialIdenti ication Manufacturerdeclaration Mustmeetsystemspeci ications N/A

MixDesign Manufacturerdeclaration Mustmeetsystemspeci ications N/A

DrainageASTMF1551/DIN18035-6WaterPermeability

Min.14in./hour Lab/Field

ComponentSizeRubber/Stone(gravel)

ASTMF1508SieveAnalysis Mustmeetsystemspeci ications Lab

EvennessASTMF2157Testmethodforbasematerialevenness

Lessthan¼in.over10ft.(6mmover3m)

Field

Thickness Measurement

Mustmeetsystemspeci icationsateverypointmeasured(+¼in./-0)(+6mm/-0)cushionlayer

Lab/Field


34STC©November2011

AppendixB—ReferenceSpeci ications(typicalminimums)

Charts1-5A. Thereferencespeci icationsnotedinAppendixBare“typical”examplesofminimums

thataremostcommonlyencounteredandhaveful illedreasonableexpectationsforsuccessfulperformance.Deviationsfromtheseminimumscanbeexpectedduetoproductinnovationsorqualityupgradesandcanbeconsideredwhenproperlyjusti-iedintermsoftheirexpectedperformance.

B. Alltestspriorto,during,orafterinstallationaretobespeci icallylistedandunder-stoodbyallpartiesastotheirexecutionand inancialresponsibility.

C. EnvironmentalConditions:Suitableweatherconditionsareimportantforthesuccess-fulinstallationofthesystems.

D. Intheeventofquestionableconditions,themanufacturer’srecommendationshouldbeobtainedtopreventthepossiblevoidingofanywarranties(particularlyasitap-pliestoadhesives).


35STC©November2011

Chart1:In illedSyntheticTurfSpeci ication

Fiber

Material PE,PP,Nylon6orNylon6.6

Denier Mustmeetsystemspeci ications

WeightPrimary Notlessthan5.5oz./sq.yd.

WeightSecondary Notlessthan16oz./sq.yd.

AdditionalBackings Optional

Fabric

Width 12ft.to15ft.

TuftBind >6.8lbs.or30N

PileHeight Sportspeci icorasspeci ied

PileWeightNotlessthan30oz./sq.yd.Mustmeetsystemspeci ications

GrabTearStrength Notlessthan150lbs.

PillBurnTest Passingresultstestedasinstalled

In illSystem(Dependingonmanufacturer’srecommendation,refertode initionsection)

DepthofIn ill Nominal,permanufacturer’srecommendation

ImpactAttenuation

CurrentASTMstandardforg-maxisamaximumvalueof200ateachtestpoint.g-Maxvaluesmayvaryfromloca-tiontolocationonaplayingsurface.Suchvariancesshouldbetakenintoaccountwhensettingmaximumvalues.TheSTC’sguidelineisthatg-maxshouldbebe-low165throughoutthelifeofthe ield.

WaterPermeabilityTurf/cushionlayer:min.10in./hourBasematerials:min.14in./hour

Backing(primary/secondary)


36STC©November2011

Chart2:KnittedSyntheticTurfSpeci ication-Shortpile

Fiber


Denier Min.500Nylon

Thickness Min.75micronsPEorPP


GroundYarn Polyestermulti- ilaments

WeightPrimary Min.8oz./sq.yd.

Acrylic Min.3oz./sq.yd.

Polyurethaneattachedcushion Optional

Fabric

Width Typically15ft.

TuftBind N/A


PileWeight Min.55oz./sq.yd.

GrabTearStrength Min.350lbs.


TotalWeight Min.66oz./sq.yd.(withoutattachedcushion)

In illSystem(Dependingonmanufacturer’srecommendation,refertode initionsection)

ImpactAttenuation




37STC©November2011

Chart3:TuftedSyntheticTurfSpeci ication-Shortpile

Fiber


Denier Min.500Nylon

ThicknessMin.75micronsPEMin.50micronsPP


WovenPP/non-woven Singleormultiple

Weight Min.6oz./sq.yd.

ScrapCoat Min.16oz./sq.yd.

AttachedcushionSecondaryand/orcushion

Min.32oz./sq.yd.(asrequired)

Fabric

Width 12-15ft.

TuftBind >6.8lbs.or30N


PileWeight Min.48oz./sq.yd.

GrabTearStrength Min.150lbs.


TotalWeight Dependingonindividualconstruction

System(Dependingonmanufacturer’srecommendation,refertode initionsection)

ImpactAttenuation




38STC©November2011

Chart4:ShockPad-Pre-FabricatedPadSystemsSpeci ication

Chart5:ShockPad-InSituSystemsSpeci ication(typicalranges)

*MixDesign(allpercentagesbyweight)

Note:Typicallythemixdesignisdetermined irst,tosatisfytheneedsofthe ieldinrelationtoitsdeclareduse.Themixdesignthenwilldeterminetheweight,density,andthicknesswhichshouldfallwithintheparametersindicated.

SBRgranulestobedustfree,noelongatedparticlesareallowed.

Aggregatetobewashed/clean,preferablyround(peagravel).

Applicationtobeperformedbytheuseofcontinuousmixingdeviceandsuitablepavingequipment.

TypicalRequirement

Thickness 0.375in.±10%

Density 4.0lbs./cu.ft.±10%

Weight 38oz./sq.yd.

Width 4ft.

25%CompressionResistance(ASTMD1667) 10-12psi

TensileStrength(ASTMD412) Typically75psi

ElongationtoBreak(ASTMD412) Typically125%

Thickness: 35mm 25mm 20mm

Density: 2lbs./cu.ft. 1.5lbs./cu.ft. 1.2lbs./cu.ft.

Weight: 56lbs./sq.yd. 40lbs./sq.yd. 32lbs./sq.yd.

Component: SBR Aggregate PUBinder

1-5mm 1-3mm

Percentages(byweight): 60-63% 30-32% 5-10%


39STC©November2011

Legend—ProvidersofSyntheticTurfSystems

Material/ComponentManufacturers&Suppliers

Companieswhoseprimarybusinessistoprovidematerialsormanufacturingservicestothesyntheticturfindustry.Theseorganizationsdonotprovideturn-keyinstallationofthesyntheticturfsystemsnorprovidetheoverallwarrantyforaninstallation.Examples in-clude:

Adhesivesandfasteners

Backingsystems

Componentsofsyntheticturfsystems

Drainagesystems

In ill(crumbrubber,sand,etc.)

Logosand ieldgraphics

Pigmentsandmasterbatches

Syntheticturf

Shockpadsandunderlayments

Yarnand iber

Builders,Installers&Contractors

Companieswhoseprimaryresponsibilityisinstallingsyntheticsystemseitherdirectlyorindirectlythroughasubcontractorordistributor.Buildersoftenhaveturn-keyresponsi-bilityforthesyntheticturfinstallationandprovidetheoverallwarrantyfortheinstalla-tion.Itisrecognizedthatsomecompaniesinthiscategorymaybemanufacturers.Exam-plesinclude:

Builders and installers of sports ields, landscape, golf and/or recreation syntheticgrass

Generalcontractors(drainage, ieldremoval,irrigation,e-layer,etc.)

Sub-basecontractors


40STC©November2011

IndependentProfessionals&Consultants

Firmswithlegallyregisteredorlicenseddesignprofessionalswhoareof iciallydesignat-edassuchaswellasthosewithnon-licensedpractitionersorconsultantsthatrepresentoradvise theowner/end-userwithsurfaceandsystemsselection information, technicalspeci ications,systemdesigns,bidandconstructiondocuments,etc.Examplesinclude:

Landscapearchitectsandcivilengineers

Independentsyntheticturfconsultants

SpecialtyManufacturers&Services

Maintenanceorganizations,equipmentmanufacturers,professionalserviceorganizations,and other companies, typically independent,which sell their products and services pri-marilytothebuyerorend-user.Examplesinclude:

Business&scienti icconsulting

Fieldmarkingandpaint

Fieldremovalequipment

Insurance(third-partywarranty,bonding,etc.)

Irrigationsystems

Maintenanceinstallationequipment

Protective ieldcovers

Repairsandmaintenanceservices

Sports ieldhardware&equipment

Syntheticturfandyarnextrusionequipment

TestingLabs,Services&Equipment

Independentcompaniesthatarecapableoftestingsyntheticturfanditscomponents:

Onsitetestingserviceproviders

Testingequipmentmanufacturersand/orsuppliers

Testinglaboratories


41STC©November2011

DisclaimerThe SuggestedGuidelinesfortheEssentialElementsofSyntheticTurfSystems are voluntary.Thisdocumentdoesnot,inanyway,imply,suggestorguaranteethatawarranty,environ-mental,orperformanceissuecouldnotariseifthesystem,productorcomponentmeetsthesuggestedguidelines,nordoesitimplyorsuggestthatifanyoftheguidelinesarenotmetthattheproductwillfailtoperform.Theseguidelinesarenotstandardsandarenottobeusedasthebasisforwarrantyorotherclaims.Theguidelineshavebeensuggestedtoenhance theuseof synthetic turf sportssurfaces;however, theyarenot intended tobe,andarenot,safetystandardsandthisdocumentdoesnotimplythataninjuryislesslikelytooccurifthesyntheticsportssurfacemeetstheconditionsandsuggestedguidelinescon-tainedherein.

AbouttheSyntheticTurfCouncilBasedinAtlanta,theSyntheticTurfCouncilwasfoundedin2003topromotetheindustryandtoassistbuyersandenduserswiththeselection,useandmaintenanceofsyntheticturfsystemsinsports ield,golf,municipalparks,airports, landscapeandresidentialap-plications.Theorganization isalsoaresource forcurrent,credible,andindependentre-search on the safety and environmental impact of synthetic turf. Membership includesbuilders,landscapearchitects,testinglabs,maintenanceproviders,manufacturers,suppli-ers, installation contractors, in illmaterial suppliers andother specialty service compa-nies.Formoreinformation,visittheSTC’sOnlineBuyers’GuideandMemberDirectoryatwww.syntheticturfcouncil.org.


SyntheticTurfCouncil400GalleriaParkway,Suite1500

Atlanta,GA30339Phone:678.385.6720|Fax:678.385.6501

www.syntheticturfcouncil.org

OnlineBuyer’sGuideandMemberDirectorywww.stc.of icialbuyersguide.net

suggested guidelines for the essential elements of · pdf file ·...

Documents