ISTA 6 FedEx-A Package Integrity Testing
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Summary of ISTA 6 FedEx A Package Testing
ISTA 6 FedEx A defines general simulation procedures for testing packaged products weighing up to 150 lbs. The protocol uses drop, impact, compression, and vibration tests to evaluate package integrity. These tests simulate transportation hazards and determine how well packaging protects its contents.
Additionally, technicians open and inspect packages after completing all test procedures. This evaluation helps identify damage and performance issues.
FedEx classifies packages into three categories:
Flat Package:
A flat package has a shortest dimension of 8 inches or less. The next shortest dimension must measure at least four times the shortest dimension. Additionally, the total package volume must equal or exceed 800 cubic inches.
Elongated Package:
An elongated package has a longest dimension of at least 36 inches. The other two dimensions must measure 20% or less of the longest dimension.
Regular Package:
A regular package includes any package that does not meet the requirements for a flat or elongated package.
ISTA 6 FedEx A Testing Procedures for Parcels Weighing 150 lbs or Less
Free-Fall Drop Testing
Keystone performs free-fall drop testing by dropping packages onto a flat, firm, nonyielding steel surface. Drop heights vary based on package weight. Additionally, we recommend completing 10 drops, with one drop performed in each orientation.
Concentrated Impact Testing
For flat packages, Keystone uses a free-fall drop tester to drop a dense 12” x 12” x 12” box onto the package.
For elongated packages, we perform bridge impact testing. First, we place the test package on two 4-inch-high blocks positioned at opposite ends of the longest dimension. Next, we drop the wooden box onto the midpoint of the package.
Compression Testing
Keystone performs compression testing with a dynamic compression tester. First, we center the package on the lower platen of the compression machine. Next, we bring the platens together at a rate of 0.5 inches per minute to apply compression forces.
Random Vibration Testing
Keystone performs random vibration testing with a dynamic shock machine. This test simulates three consecutive vibration sequences:
Truck vibration at 0.52 Grms
Air vibration at 1.06 Grms
Repeat truck vibration at 0.52 Grms
These profiles simulate transportation conditions and evaluate package durability.
Rotary Vibration Testing
During rotary vibration testing, Keystone subjects packages to 14,200 vibratory impacts. First, we secure the package on the vibration table with fixtures to prevent movement.
Next, we begin testing at the lowest vibration frequency. Then, we gradually increase the frequency until we reach the required test speed.
Expert ISTA FedEx Compliance Package Testing Laboratory
In addition to ISTA 6 FedEx testing, Keystone Package Testing has a full scope of expertise including leak penetration, accelerated aging, and sterile barrier. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.
Contact us to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their ISTA package compliance testing needs.
For more information on ISTA 6 testing, please visit any of 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.