ASTM-D4169

Standard practice for performance testing of shipping containers and systems

About ASTM-D4169

ASTM-D4169 describes the standard practice for performance testing of shipping containers and systems. It provides a guide for the evaluation of shipping units in accordance with a uniform system, using established test methods at levels representative of those occurring in actual distribution. The recommended test levels are based on available information on the shipping and handling environment, and current industry/government practice and experience.

The tests should be performed sequentially on the same containers in the order given. For use as a performance test, this practice requires that the shipping unit tested remain unopened until the sequence of tests is completed. If used for other purposes, such as package development, it may be useful to open and inspect shipping units at various times throughout the sequence. This may, however, prohibit evaluating the influence of the container closure on container performance.

ASTM-D4169 Scope

1.1 This practice provides a uniform basis of evaluating the ability of shipping units to withstand the distribution environment. This is accomplished by subjecting them in a laboratory environment to a test plan consisting of a sequence of anticipated hazard elements encountered in various distribution cycles. This practice is not intended to supplant material specifications or existing pre-shipment test procedures.

1.2 This practice does not include performance testing of packages for single parcel shipments.

1.3 The suitability of this practice for use with hazardous materials has not been determined.

1.4 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.

ASTM D4169 Distribution Cycle 13: Air (intercity) and motor freight, local single package up to 150 lb

ASTM D4169-05, DC=13 – testing sequence and types
SequenceTest TypeStandardScheduleDescription
1DropASTM-D5276AHandling
2CompressionASTM-D642CVehicle Stacking
3Fixed VibrationASTM-D999FLoose-Load Vibration
4VaccumASTM-D6653ILow pressure*
5Random VibrationASTM-D4728EVehicle Vibration
6ImpactASTM-D6344JConcentrated Impact**
7DropASTM-D5276AHandling

*N/A for porous materials
**Applicable to lightwieght singlewall corrugated shipping containers under 275 Burst or 44 Edge Crush Test (ECT).

ASTM D4169 Distribution Cycle 3: Single package without pallet or skid, LTL motor freight

ASTM D4169-05, DC=3 – testing sequence and types
SequenceTest TypeStandardScheduleDescription

1

Drop

ASTM-D5276

A

Handling

2

Stacked Vibration

ASTM-D4728

D

Vehicle Vibration

3

Fixed Vibration

ASTM-D999

F

Loose-Load Vibration

4

Impact

ASTM-D6344

J

Concentrated Impact**

5

Drop

ASTM-D5276

A

Handling

**Applicable to lightweight single-wall corrugated shipping containers under 275 Burst or 44 Edge Crush Test (ECT).

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