ASTM D5112 Test

ASTM D5112 Standard Test Method for Vibration (Horizontal Linear Motion) Testing of Products

The purpose of ASTM D5112 is to determine the resonance of unpackaged products and components when horizontal linear motion is applied to the surface on which the product is mounted.

There are two alternative test methods for ASTM D5112.

• Test Method A- Resonance Search Using Sinusoidal Vibration
• Test Method B- Resonance Search Using Random Vibration

The information obtained from these test methods is used to examine the response of products to vibration. Since the damage caused by vibration is likely to be observed at resonance frequencies, this test can be used to improve the design with changes that minimize damage.

When evaluating possible modifications, sinusoidal dwell and random test methods are optional. However, they can assist in evaluating the fatigue properties of resonance components. It is important to note that this test does not simulate the field conditions that the product will encounter.

The products are exposed to many stresses throughout the distribution channels, including the shipping environment. ASTM D5112 can help the package designer identify the most effective packaging system to minimize product damage. Determining the resonance frequencies of the product will provide unique information about interactions between the components of the pack after vibration.

Five test apparatus are required, as specified in ASTM D5112;

• Vibration Tester - The machine must have a flat horizontal surface that can distribute uniform vibration over the entire test sample surface. The test surface should only be moved with horizontal linear movements throughout the test.
• Sinusoidal Control - Frequency and amplitude should cover the range specified in the procedure. Although variable, it should always be under control.
• Random Control - Frequency and amplitude should reach the values ​​specified in the test procedure. Movement must be constantly variable but also under control.
• Sample Mounting Devices - Mounting devices should be able to adequately fix the product to the test surface. The devices are intended to support the product at the test table, similar to how the product is fixed to the shipping container. Relative movement between the test surface and the test mounting interface is not allowed.
• instrumentation - Instrumentation systems are required to monitor and / or record accelerations and frequencies at the test surface and related points. Instrument types include up to +/- 5% sensitive sensors, signal conditioners, filters and data acquisition devices throughout the test range. The test procedure summarizes the differences in measuring devices when using Test Method A and Test Method B.

The required test sample sample number will be determined by the number required to display an accurate representative performance. If possible, five (5) or more test samples should be used. For the purposes of this test, the test sample is the product for packaging. In some cases, it is useful to add additional sensors to points of interest. It is important that the additional sensors are flexible and have flexible wires so that they do not interfere with the integrity of the test. Non-critical panels of the product are allowed to be removed to observe the internal components of the product.

Conditioning may be required before testing. ASTM D5112 testing should be done in a test condition environment or immediately after removal. The test specimen should be fixed on the test surface to prevent any movement of the product. The spectrum of vibrations should represent the transport medium. Resonance responses of the product should be recorded.

Acceleration and frequency data and test sample components on the test surface should be monitored and recorded throughout the test. The test should be carried out in the direction of every product that is important during shipment. The test lab will compile the data in a comprehensive report following ASTM D5112 guidelines.