ASTM D5276 Standard Test Method for Free Fall Drop Test of Loaded Containers

The ASTM D5276 standard is a protocol for testing the strength and ability to protect packaged products when subjected to a sudden shock from the impact of free fall.

This procedure provides guidance on how to perform a free fall or drop test, allowing a company to evaluate the container's ability to protect its contents during freefall, in a laboratory setting, before sending it to the distribution cycle.

The ASTM D5276 packaging test is mainly used for filled boxes, cylindrical packaging, bags and sacks. For containers not exceeding 110 lb (50 kg), this test method meets the requirements of ISO Standards 2206:1987 and 2248:1985. These ISO standards may describe procedures that do not meet the requirements of this test method.

It is a drop test standard particularly suitable for containers that are handled manually during the dispensing cycle due to their size or weight. Therefore, there are more appropriate standards for packages with automated processing, such as ASTM D880, D6055, D6179, or D4003 test methods.

Due to the size and characteristics of the samples to be tested, many logistics, e-commerce or manufacturing companies whose products are manually handled during part of the distribution cycle can benefit from the application of the ASTM D5276 standard.

Some of the advantages of following the standard are:

• Optimization of packaging: Through the ASTM D5276 standard, the suitability of packaging design to the distribution cycle and impact risks from drops are assessed. In particular, it can be used to conduct comparative studies between different packaging designs, but also to progressively assess when the packaging and the goods inside it deteriorate.
• Eliminate costs: The standard aims to achieve a packaging design that guarantees the safety of the goods. As a result, the costs associated with the reduction of products during their distribution are eliminated. In addition, ASTM certification puts the company in an advantageous position when negotiating shipping costs, as it provides assurance of the product's ability to withstand distribution conditions.
• Improved brand image: The company shows that it works to guarantee the safety of its product by designing a product + packaging system that reaches the end customer in perfect condition.

Values ​​stated in inch-pound units should be considered standard. Values ​​in parentheses are mathematical conversions to non-standard SI units, provided for informational purposes only.

This standard does not purport to address all, if any, safety concerns associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory restrictions prior to use.

EUROLAB assists manufacturers with ASTM D5276 test compliance. Our test experts, with their professional working mission and principles, provide you, our manufacturers and suppliers, the best service and controlled testing process in our laboratories. Thanks to these services, businesses receive more effective, high-performance and quality testing services and provide safe, fast and uninterrupted service to their customers.