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ASTM D6344 Impact Package Testing

ASTM D6344 Concentrated Impact Integrity Testing

ASTM D6344 test method replicates the distribution environment for filled transport packages by using resistance against concentrated low-level impacts. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of concentrated impacts to transport package testing. Meeting the ASTM D6344 requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone provides comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the testing. We are in constant communication throughout the test process. Our pricing is competitive and we offer volume discounts. Keystone Package Testing partners with customers to achieve package compliance.

Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Package Testing. Have a question about concentrated impacts? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.

Summary of Concentrated Impacts on Transport Packages

ASTM D6344 is conducted on a pass/fail basis of established criteria. During shipping, packages can encounter concentrated impacts from outside sources. This test will evaluate the package on how it resists the forces of those impacts. Impact testing is recommended for thin fluted/lighter grade corrugated boxes or stretch-wrapped packaging.

The impacts are meant to simulate real situations during distribution. They include but are not limited to adjacent freight jostling in a vehicle, accidental bumps during loading and unloading, and bumping during sorting on conveyors or chutes. The test will ultimately evaluate if packaging can sufficiently protect its contents from damage.

Scope of ASTM D6344 Concentrated Impacts Testing

There are five (5) required pieces of equipment used when conducting ASTM D6344:

          Cylindrical Mass with Full Radius (Hemispherical) End – a solid steel rod with one end rounded so that it forms a hemisphere. It can have a threaded eye-bolt attached for positioning and support- to the end for guided free-fall drop and to the side when used as a pendulum

          Guided Free Fall – the mass of the cylindrical rod is allowed to free-fall through a tube and strike the test specimen with its rounded end. The rod must hit the package within 10 mm of the desired impact point. The package test surface must also be positioned perpendicular to the falling rod/tube before free fall.

          Non-Guided Free Fall – the rod may be dropped without the guidance of a tube. The rod will be suspended in such a way that it is perpendicular to the test package surface and will strike within 10 mm of the desired impact point.

          Pendulum – two cords will suspend the steel rod so that it can swing like a pendulum to hit the side of a package. When released, the pendulum must be perpendicular to the package test surface and strike within 10 mm of the desired impact point.

          Conditioning Apparatus – the test specimen should be conditioned to the appropriate humidity and temperature before testing begins.

The test specimen should consist of the package prepared with the actual contents. The package should be sealed the same as it would be for the field. The number of test specimens necessary for samples is determined by how many are required to result in an accurate representation of performance throughout the distribution process.

ASTM D6344 Laboratory Impact Testing Procedures

To begin testing, the faces that will be tested should be identified. Generally, tests are conducted on the faces of the package that are most likely to receive low-level impacts in the field.

Identify the desired impact spot on the surfaces that will be tested. Establish the acceptance criteria before the start of testing. If the package requires conditioning, it is best to conduct the tests in a conditioned atmosphere.

However, if this is not possible, then the test should be conducted immediately upon the removal of the package from the conditioned environment. Complete the tests from heights that produce the desired energy at impact according to the tables in the ASTM D6344 procedure. 

When the ASTM D6344 test is completed, the testing laboratory will evaluate if the package has met the acceptance criteria and write a report accordingly. Information in the report includes the following:

  • Dimensions of the package tested;
  • Description of the contents;
  • Number of specimens tested;
  • Method of conditioning;
  • Description of the apparatus used;
  • Record of the energy generated by the striking mass;
  • Detailed record of the test results for each package.

Expert Concentrated Impact Lab Package Testing

Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. We can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets. In addition to ASTM D6344 testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including temperature validation, vibration, and accelerated aging.

Request a quote to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their ASTM D6344 certification 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.