Impact or Drop Test
Definition
Just as the name implies, the test evaluates the ability of a package to protect against impacts in the distribution environment (rollover def.). Impacts can occur both vertically and horizontally, but the impact event is the same. For the ease of conducting an impact test, the package is allowed to freefall onto corners, edges, and flat surfaces. Many test procedures conduct all of the impacts from the same drop height regardless of orientation.
Impact testing isn’t limited to just packages; often products need to survive the in-use environment which is more severe than the distribution environment. Think about how many times you drop electronic items; phones, remote controls, radios, handheld meters, etc.
Typical Range
Impact tests are conducted from a variety of drop heights. Most package standards are conducted through a range of 12-48 inches. UN certification tests use 36 and 48 inches as common drop heights. Rarely do impact test go beyond 72 inches, but if a test request for a higher drop height is requested, Westpak can accommodate the need.
Associated Standards
The impact test is conducted using a test apparatus that complies with the ASTM D5276 test procedure. However, a shock test machine can be used to conduct a drop test using the velocity change of a freefall impact. the effective freefall drop height can be conducted using the velocity change
What we provide
The object of package design is to make sure the package uses the least amount of cushioning material and the volume is as small as possible. Westpak can make recommendations about the package design by measuring the transmitted deceleration through the package and into the product and looking at the waveform morphology. If the package design performs adequately a change in the product design may be easier than the cost associated with increasing the package size. Overall, we can recommend changes in the package or product design that will give you a competitive advantage.
Standards at a glance
- ASTM D 880
- ASTM D 4169
- ASTM D 5265
- ASTM D 4331
- ASTM D 5487
- ASTM D 3071
- ASTM D 5276
- ASTM D 6055
- ASTM D 6179
- IEC-68-2-31, 32
- MIL STD 810F
- ISO 2248
- ISTA (ALL PROTOCOLS)
How Westpak can help
Send us your request
To discuss your questions about Impact Testing give us a call, to request a proposal click here.
