Distribution testing at Smithers
Watch this video from Smithers distribution testing experts to get an overview of how they help clients validate packaging performance, simulating every part of the supply chain.
Summary
This procedure has been designed to provide a standard set of tests to understand individual package / product performance when evaluated against several handling conditions. ISTA 2 Series protocols include components of both the 1 and 3 Series for evaluation.
Test Details
Packages will be subjected to the following tests (in order):
- Atmospheric preconditioning at ambient temperature / humidity
- Atmospheric conditioning at controlled temperature and humidity levels based on detailed guidelines
- Compression using one of the following methods
- Machine apply and release (calculated test force x 1.4)
- Machine apply and hold (calculated test force)
- Weight and load spreader (calculated test load
- Vibration using either fixed displacement (1 inch peak to peak at a predetermined frequency) or random (overall Grmslevel of 1.15) methods
- Shock testing based on drop, incline impact or horizontal impact methods. The height or impact velocity depends on the package weight.
- Vibration using either fixed displacement (1 inch peak to peak at a predetermined frequency) or random (overall Grmslevel of 1.15) methods.
Types of packaging tested under this method
- Individual packaging (non-palletized) weighing 150 lbs (68 kg) or less.
Please Note: The information outlined above is to be used as reference for ISTA 2A. Please refer to ISTA's website for full details.
If you are considering testing to ISTA 2A, or would like support selecting the most appropriate distribution testing approach, Smithers can help. Our experts support organisations with transit simulation, packaging validation, and distribution testing programmes aligned with real-world supply chain conditions. Speak with a distribution testing specialist.
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