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 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sequence | Test Type | Standard | Schedule | Description |
| 1 | Drop | ASTM-D5276 | A | Handling |
| 2 | Compression | ASTM-D642 | C | Vehicle Stacking |
| 3 | Fixed Vibration | ASTM-D999 | F | Loose-Load Vibration |
| 4 | Vaccum | ASTM-D6653 | I | Low pressure* |
| 5 | Random Vibration | ASTM-D4728 | E | Vehicle Vibration |
| 6 | Impact | ASTM-D6344 | J | Concentrated Impact** |
| 7 | Drop | ASTM-D5276 | A | Handling |
*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 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sequence | Test Type | Standard | Schedule | Description |
1 | Drop | A | Handling | |
2 | Stacked Vibration | D | Vehicle Vibration | |
3 | Fixed Vibration | F | Loose-Load Vibration | |
4 | Impact | J | Concentrated Impact** | |
5 | Drop | A | Handling |
**Applicable to lightweight single-wall corrugated shipping containers under 275 Burst or 44 Edge Crush Test (ECT).
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