ASTM D3580 Test

ASTM D3580 Standard Tests for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion) Testing of Products

The scope of the ASTM D3580 vibration test is to determine resonances. The test standard focuses on finding resonances of unpackaged products and components of unpackaged products.

ASTM-D3580uses vertical linear motion on the surface where the product is mounted to find the resonance. There are two alternative test methods.

• Test Method A: Resonance search using sinusoidal vibration
• Test Method B: Resonance search using random vibration

It is important to note that the two separate test methods are not equivalent. Different results can be obtained with each method. Typically, random vibration testing is a better simulation of handling equipment. Random vibration testing is also usually faster.

The ASTM-D-3580 test provides engineers with valuable design feedback. Test parameters evaluate the response of products to vibration. This can be useful for product design, container design and interior packaging design purposes. The aim is to minimize transport vibration inputs at critical frequencies.

Studies have proven that transport vibration damage occurs most frequently at resonance frequencies. Knowing the resonance frequency, which can be considered the point of fragility, helps engineers design suitable packaging.

When ASTM D3580 test laboratories complete the test, it does not have to simulate the vibration effects that the product may experience in the operation or usage environment. This test standard is for the shipping environment only.

The test is carried out on a vibration table or shaker. There are four shakers that can simulate the required vibration outputs in the Keystone Package Test. The standard recommends testing at least five duplicate samples. The more units tested, the more accurate the statistical reliability.

The method called conditioning can be included in the test program. Conditioning may include, but is not limited to, extreme cold, extreme temperature, temperature shock, humidity and altitude. In the absence of other conditions, the recommended temperature is 73.4 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity is 50%.

Upon completion of the ASTM D3580 package test, the test lab will issue a test report. The test report will contain the following information:

• Description of the test product.
• Determining the purpose of the test.
• Information about which test method is used. Options are sine test, random test, or both.
• If a sine test is used, a description of the test sequence, input acceleration level, swept frequency range and scan rate will be included.
• If random testing is used, the definition of the test sequence, the input spectrum shape, levels, frequencies and test time will be included.
• Definition of deviations
• Number expression of test duplicates.
• Identification of the test equipment used.
• Details of the conditioning method.
• Results of previous tests.
• Components that show resonance vibration and related frequencies.