724-657-9940

ASTM D6055 Integrity TestingASTM D6055 Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads, Large Shipping Cases & Crates

ASTM D6055 shipping container testing is to determine the integrity of unitized loads and large cases and crates. Meeting the ASTM D6055 requirements can be difficult. Keystone Package Testing understands the challenges and guides companies through the process.

Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met. Our accurate test reports are delivered quickly and provide a detailed plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. We are in constant communication throughout the test process.

Request a Quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing package test labs in the country. Contact us to receive more information on ASTM D6055 testing.

Summary of ASTM D6055 Standard Test Method Information

The standard assesses the ability of the contents to endure normal handling using standard mechanical handling equipment. This package testing standard is not intended for individual drums or palletized drums.

Note that not all test methods apply to all product containers and loads. These tests are designed for use in most cases with the actual equipment to be used in load handling. ASTM D6055 also evaluates the shipping unit as to suitability for mechanical handling by standard user-specific load-handling equipment.

ASTM Mechanical Handling Testing Procedures

Before testing, it is recommended that atmospheric conditioning is conducted in accordance with ASTM D4332.

An accredited test lab must be able to provide the testing using one of the following six general test methods:

Test Method A: Fork Truck Handling

This method is used for testing the ability of the shipping unit to withstand repeated handlings of a fork truck. In performing the fork truck handling test, use an actual lift truck with a fork attachment to lift the shipping unit. The lift truck and blade(s) shall be capable of handling the size and quantity of products per current practice.

Test Method B: Spade Lift Test

Test method B is used for lifting by spade lift attachment to determine the ability of the handling flap of the case or shipping unit to withstand repeated lifting and handling. In performing the spade lift test, use an actual lift truck with a spade lift attachment to lift the shipping unit under the lifting flap. The lift truck and blade(s) must be capable of handling the size and quantity of products per current practice.

Test Method C: Clamp Handling Test

This method is used for lifting by a hydraulic clamp attachment. This determines the ability of the shipping unit to withstand squeeze clamp handling consisting of repeated side compression and lifting. In performing the clamp handling test, use an actual lift truck with the appropriate load clamping device to lift the shipping unit.

Provisions are made to measure the clamping force between the platens using a load cell(s) or another suitable device.

Test Method D: Push-Pull Handling Test

The push-pull handling test determines the ability of a unitized load on a slip-sheet to withstand repeated handling by this test method. In performing the push-pull test, use an actual lift truck with the appropriate gripper jaw for pulling the load by the slip sheet tab onto the load plate. Alternatively, any suitable pulling device equipped with a gripper jaw may be used.

Test Method E: Grabhook Test

This test method uses grabhooks to determine the ability of the shipping unit to withstand the horizontal pressures of the grabhooks. In lifting the case or crate with grabhooks or slings, a hoist with grabhooks or slings attached is the simplest and easiest, but the test may be made with a tackle or by lifting the case or crate with jacks and setting it into grabhooks or slings supported by some form of the truss.

Test Method F: Sling Tests

The method is used for lifting by wire rope, cable, or woven fiber slings to determine the ability of the shipping unit to withstand the compression of slings.

Additional Testing

Additional test methods that apply to mechanical handling and rough handling tests of unitized loads and large cases and crates can be used. These can include incline impact tests, described in Test Method D 880; horizontal impact tests, described in Test Method D 4003.

Test Report

After completing testing, a report is written comprising the following information:

  • Conditioning
  • Dimensions of the unit under testing
  • Description of the contents of the unit under testing
  • Description of the specimen after testing and if any damage occurred
  • Detailed record of tests including parameters, procedures used, angle of free-fall drop, etc.

Expert Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates

Keystone Package Testing can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets. We have a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. In addition to ASTM D6055 testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including leak penetration, inclined impact, and compression.

With significant experience, we not only provide experienced testing but also assist with developing a test plan and identifying potential solutions when packages do not meet the requirements. Contact us to see firsthand why so many companies partner with Keystone Package Testing to meet their transit testing needs.

 

For more referenced ASTM standards and similar testing, please follow the links below:

 

Interested in the EMC/EMI, climatic, dynamic, shielding effectiveness, or IP Code testing of a product? Follow the corresponding links or www.keystonecompliance.com for more information.