This test method is intended for use in evaluating the capability of a container to withstand the sudden shock resulting from a free fall, or to evaluate the capability of a container and its inner packing to protect its contents during the sudden shock resulting from a free fall. This test method may also be used to compare the performance of different package designs. This test method may also permit observation of the progressive failure of a container and the damage to its contents.

This test method is particularly suitable for containers that are normally handled manually during some part of their distribution cycle. Containers of such bulk or mass that they cannot be handled manually may be tested more satisfactorily in accordance with Test Method D 880, Test Methods D 6055, Test Methods D 6179, or Test Methods D 4003. See Practice D 4169 for additional guidance.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers procedures for the drop testing of loaded boxes, cylindrical containers, and bags and sacks by the free-fall method.

1.2 For containers not exceeding 110 lb (50 kg), this test method fulfills the requirements of ISO Standards 2206:1987 and 2248:1985. These ISO standards may describe procedures that do not meet the requirements for this test method.

1.3 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.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, 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

D585 Practice for Sampling and Accepting a Single Lot of Paper, Paperboard, Fiberboard, and Related Product

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

D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems

D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments

D2463 Test Method for Drop Impact Resistance of Blow-Molded Thermoplastic Containers

D4003 Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems

D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems

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

D6055 Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates

D6179 Test Methods for Rough Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates

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

E680 Test Method for Drop Weight Impact Sensitivity of Solid-Phase Hazardous Materials

ISO Standards

Keywords

bags; boxes; cylindrical containers; drop test; drums; free fall; packaging; sacks; Drop tests--shipping containers; Free-fall drop tester; Shipping containers/materials/applications

ICS Code

Citing ASTM Standards

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