Materials shipped in elongated packages are liable to damage as a result of impact near their midpoint when only the ends are supported. This type of damage can occur during the shipment of packaging of mixed dimensions. It is particularly prevalent during conveyer line transport and sortation. This test method provides a means of determining resistance to such damage.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method is intended to determine the capability of a long package with a narrow cross-section to resist impact near its center when the package is supported only at its ends. This test method allows the user to select from two test options: Option A employs the use of a free-fall drop tester (see Exhibit B), and Option B employs the use of simulated mechanical impact testing equipment (S.M.I.T.E.; see Exhibit A). The two optional procedures are designed to impart the same amount of kinetic energy at impact; therefore, each procedure yields equal damage-producing potential.

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D644 Test Method for Moisture Content of Paper and Paperboard by Oven Drying

D685 Practice for Conditioning Paper and Paper Products for Testing

D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments

D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing

E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process

Keywords

bridge impact; drop test; free-fall; packaging; S.M.I.T.E. tester; Bridge impact; Damage assessment; Drop tests--shipping containers; Free-fall drop tester; Narrow packages; Packing/packaging materials/systems; SMITE (simulated mechanical impact) tester

ICS Code

Citing ASTM Standards

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