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Drop and Impact TestingASTM D880 Impact Testing

ASTM D880 testing covers two procedures for conducting impact tests on loaded containers or shipping units. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ASTM D880 impact testing. Meeting the ASTM D880 requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve package compliance. We provide comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the testing. When packages do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Lastly, Keystone has a reputation for helping customers achieve their package certifications. 

Request a quote to receive testing services customized to your specific needs. Have a question about ASTM D880 impact package testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.

Summary of ASTM D880 Shipping Containers and Systems Testing

The ASTM D880 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 protect the contents. For Procedure B, the definition of a shipping container includes the outer container as well as the interior packing.

ASTM D880 can be applied to several containers. These include but are not limited to flexible packages, pouches, bags, barrels, boxes, crates, drums, kegs, pails, and sacks. The standard also allows for the testing of pallet loads and palletized units. Heavily loaded units can be tested to this standard.

Scope of ASTM D880 Impact and Pendulum Testing

Regardless of the method of shipment, air, sea, rail, or over the road, impacts are a common occurrence in transportation. Impacts can occur as containers are dropped from one surface to another. They also occur as containers are placed on top of each other. Impacts happen during normal actions, but can also happen by accident.

The ASTM D880 package testing standard identifies three major classifications of packaging systems:

Rectangular Containers: These units are identified by having faces, edges, and corners. Facing one end of the box with the manufacturer’s joint, on the observer’s right, the top of the box is designated as “1”. The right side is designated as 2, the bottom as 4, the left side as 4, the near end as 5, and the far side as 6.

Cylindrical Containers: The cylindrical containers are identified by their top, bottom, sidewall, and chimes. The ends of the two perpendicular diameters on the upper surface of the container are designated as 1, 3, 5, and 7. The other ends parallel to the cylinder axis are 2, 4, 6, and 8.

Sack and bags: Similar to the rectangular containers, these units are characterized by their faces, sides, top, and bottom. Facing the front of the bag, the top is designated as 1. The right side is designated as 2, the rear side as 3, the left side as 4, the bottom as 5, and the top as side 6. Where a sack or bag has one or more side seams, side 2 must include a side seam.

In the case of shipping units or other types of individual containers, flexible packages, or pouches, any convenient and adequate system of identification may be used.

Significance of ASTM D880 Container Package Compliance Testing

An ASTM D880 test lab requires a specific container setup based on the procedure being tested. In Procedure A, either the actual contents or dummy contents can be used in the container. For Procedure B, only the actual contents can be used. Regardless of the contents, the container should be strapped, closed, and sealed as it would be when it is transported.

Upon completion of the testing, a test report is written. The test report will contain the following general and specific information:

  • Date, time, location, and specific test engineer.
  • Reference to the test standard and any deviations from the procedure.
  • A description of the test specimen in sufficient detail for proper identification.
  • A description of the contents.
  • An identification of the purpose of the test.
  • An identification of the apparatus used to complete the testing. This would include the angle of incline, when appropriate. The instrumentation used includes information on the last calibration. Details of any modification to either the test apparatus or instrumentation.
  • The method of conditioning the container before testing.
  • A description of the test sequence. Details of the impact velocity of each test. The orientation of the test specimen on the carriage. When necessary, the use of any hazards. If hazards are used, the dimensions, weight, material, and location should be carefully specified.
  • Details of any damage should be accurately included. If damage has occurred, the lab should note any observations that may assist in correctly interpreting the results. The test lab is also permitted and encouraged to include any recommendations for improving the design of the container, method of packing, blocking, or cushioning.

Expert ASTM D880 Impact Package Testing

Keystone can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets. We have a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. In addition to impact package testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including cold chain, sterile barrier, and vibration.

Request a quote to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their ASTM D880 certification needs.

For more referenced ASTM standards and similar testing, please follow the links below:

  • ASTM D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
  • ASTM D4003 Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
  • ASTM D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
  • ASTM D5277 Test Method for Performing Programmed Horizontal Impacts Using an Inclined Impact Tester
  • ASTM E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
  • ISO 2244 Horizontal Impact Test (Horizontal or Inclined Plane Test: Pendulum Test)