ASTM D880 Test

Standard Test Method for Impact Testing for ASTM D880 Shipping Containers and Systems

The scope of the ASTM D 880 shipping container test is to determine the results of the effects on the container. The test standard has two procedures.

Procedure A tests the ability of the shipping container to withstand impacts. Procedure B tests the ability of the shipping container to provide content protection. For Procedure B, the definition of the shipping container includes the outer container as well as the inner container.

ASTM D880 can be applied to a number of containers. These include, but are not limited to, bags, drums, boxes, crates, drums, barrels, buckets and sacks. The standard also allows testing of pallet loads and palletised units. Heavy loaded units can be tested according to this standard.

Why is impact testing important? Effects are a common situation in transportation. Regardless of the shipping method, effects are common on air, sea, rail or road. It can occur as containers are dropped from one surface to another. They can occur as containers are placed on top of each other. The effects occur during normal actions, but can also happen accidentally.

An ASTM D880 test lab will require a different container setup according to the procedure being tested. For example, in Procedure A, the actual ingredients or artificial ingredients can be used in the container. Only real ingredients can be used for Procedure B. Regardless of the content, the container must be strapped, sealed and sealed, as when moving.

After the test is completed, a test report is completed. The test report will contain the following information:

• Deviations from the test standard and procedure.
• Identification of the test sample with sufficient detail for accurate identification.
• Description of the content.
• Defining the purpose of the test.
• Identification of the apparatus used to complete the test. This will include the tilt angle when appropriate. Instrumentation used to contain information about the final calibration. Details of any changes made to the test apparatus or device.
• Method of conditioning the container before testing.
• Description of the test sequence. Details of the pulse rate of each test. The direction of the test sample on the carrier. If necessary, any hazard use. If hazards are used, dimensions, weight, material and location should be carefully specified.
• Details of any damage should be included correctly. If damage has occurred, the laboratory should note any observations that may help interpret the results correctly. The test lab is also allowed and encouraged to include any suggestions to improve the container design, packaging method, blocking or cushioning method.