December 12, 2019 – Chicago, IL – The Metal Construction Association (MCA) has confronted an issue of growing confusion regarding Metal Composite Material (MCM) with the white paper, "Labeling: Who Cares and Why", now available as a free download on their website:
https://www.metalconstruction.
"Anyone searching the internet can find dozens of products claiming to be MCM," says Karl Hielscher, MCA's Executive Director. “MCM is used in many applications requiring different performance capabilities. Clear, consistent labeling is important to help assure the right materials are chosen and used to meet design requirements.”
By definition, MCM is formed by joining two thin skins of metal—typically aluminum but sometimes zinc, copper, stainless steel or titanium—to a polyethylene or fire-retardant core and then bonded under a precise temperature, pressure and tension. This unique process makes MCM lighter and more versatile and flexible than a solid metal of similar thickness, qualities that have helped transform modern architecture.
Because MCM is being used more frequently and for high-end monumental projects, this white paper is a proactive step on the part of MCA to uphold industry standards for this important product. It addresses the need to make sure the MCM product or system has been tested by an approved agency and labeled according to IBC code.
"It's important to know if the product you are using has been tested and meets code requirements for the safety and durability of the construction," Hielscher explains.
About the Metal Construction Association
The Metal Construction Association brings together a diverse industry for the purpose of expanding the use of metal in construction through marketing, research, technology and education. Companies involved in MCA gain tremendous benefit from association activities that focus on research, codes and standards, market development, and technical programs. MCA’s market development efforts increase the use of metal materials in construction through the education of the building and design communities about the benefits of metal. For more information visit: www.metalconstruction.org.