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ASTM D4728 Standard Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers

ASTM D4728 Random Vibration Package Testing

ASTM D4728 covers random vibration testing of filled shipping units. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ASTM D4728 package and integrity testing. Meeting the ASTM D4728 requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance in constant communication throughout the test process. Our pricing is competitive and we offer volume discounts. We have a reputation of helping customers achieve their package certifications. Keystone creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing.

Request a quote and find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation. Have a question about ASTM D4728? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.

Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers

ASTM D4728 integrity testing covers the vibration sustainability compliance of filled shipping units. ASTM 4728 package testing also assesses the performance of a container with its interior packing and means of closure in terms of its ruggedness and the protection that it provides the contents when subjected to random vibration inputs.

The ASTM D4728 test method provides guidance in the development and use of vibration data in the testing of shipping containers.

Scope of ASTM D4728 Random Laboratory Vibration Integrity Compliance

Shipping containers are exposed to complex dynamic stresses in the distribution environment. Approximating the actual damage, or lack of damage, experienced in real life may require subjecting the container and its contents to random vibration tests. In this way, many product and container resonances are simultaneously excited. This action is simulated during testing by ASTM D4728 test labs.

Resonance buildups during random vibration tests are less intense than during sinusoidal resonance dwell or sweep tests. Therefore, unrealistic fatigue damage due to resonance buildup is minimized. Random ASTM D4728 vibration tests are based on representative field data. When possible, confidence levels may be improved by comparing laboratory test results with actual field shipment effects.

There is no direct equivalence between random vibration tests and sinusoidal vibration tests. Equivalent tests between sine and random, in a general sense, are difficult to establish due to nonlinearities, damping and product response characteristics.

Vibration exposure affects the shipping container, its interior packing, means of closure, and contents. This ASTM package test allows analysis of the interaction between these components. Design modification to one or all of these components may be used to achieve optimum performance in the shipping environment.

ASTM D4728 test labs are permitted to conduct random vibration tests simultaneously with transient or periodic data to simulate known stresses of this type, that is, rail joints, potholes, etc.

Random vibration may be conducted in any axis (vertical or horizontal) or in any package orientation. However, different test levels may be utilized for each axis depending on the field environment that is to be simulated.

ASTM D4728 Transportation Vibration Testing Procedures

First, the unit is placed in its normal shipping orientation. This is done so that the desired vibration condition is transmitted to the outer container. The specimen center of gravity should be as near as practicable to the center of the table. Unitized loads, stacked columns, or single units are generally allowed to vibrate freely. However, this is not the case if the shipment will actually be securely fastened during shipment.

Provisions are made so that the vibration levels do not overshoot the PSD profile on start up. This is important since random vibration will produce relatively large, low frequency displacements in an unpredictable sequence.

It is recommended that the tests be initiated at least 6 dB below the full test level and incremented in one or more subsequent steps to the full test level. Test levels are often increased over the actual field data to shorten the test time. Any attempt to do so is done with caution.

Lastly, the random vibration test is conducted for the length of time stated in the applicable specification. A report including the following information will be written.

  • The identification and description of the test specimen;
  • If unitized loads are tested, a description of the unitized load, height of the stack, method employed, etc.;
  • Purpose for the test and applicable performance, if any;
  • Number of replications of each test;
  • Atmospheric conditions to which the specimens were subjected, both prior to and during testing.

Expert ASTM D4728 Package Testing

Keystone Compliance can meet your ASTM D4728 package testing needs. By providing quick turnarounds, competitive pricing and engineering assistance, Keystone Compliance has become a leader in the package test lab industry.

Receiving a quote to complete ASTM D4728 testing is as easy as completing our online quote form or calling us at (724) 657-9940. Have a question about ASTM 4728 regulatory compliance testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.