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IEC 60068-2-31 Rough Handling Shock Testing

IEC 60068-2-31 determines the effects of rough handling shocks on equipment. As a certified environmental lab, we realize the importance of rough handling compliance testing. Meeting the environmental IEC 60068-2-31 requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the environmental standard test. When products do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. We are in constant communication throughout the entire test process. From concept to compliance, Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met.

Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing compliance test labs in the country. Have a question about IEC 60068-2-31 shock lab testing? Contact us or call (724) 657-9940 and we will determine the best course of action.

Summary of Test Method IEC 60068-2-31 Rough Handling Shocks

This IEC 60068-2-31 test method deals with simulating the effects of rough handling shocks. Primarily in equipment-type specimens, the 60068 test evaluates the effects of knocks, jolts, and falls that may be received during operational use.

IEC 60068-2-31 test procedures do not simulate impacts during transportation. Where the effects of loose cargo transportation should be assessed, visit Loose Cargo Bounce Testing. Furthermore, this test does not cover shock applied to installed equipment. For this type of testing, follow Shock Testing.

Scope of Rough Handling Shock Compliance Testing Standards

IEC 60068-2-31 testing is only used for equipment likely to receive rough handling. An example would include equipment of small to medium size and mass. Additionally, the IEC test is only conducted on faces and corners where there is a risk of such treatment being encountered.

Generally, frequently handled equipment can be considered at risk. Whereas equipment forming an integral part of a permanent installation would not normally be considered a risk. Testing does not apply to fragile, unprotected equipment of irregular shape. However, it may be applicable when the equipment is in a transit case or handling frame.

The purpose of these IEC 60068-2-31 test methods are all generally the same. More importantly, they represent different kinds of handling. These IEC tests are not intended to be precise. The tolerance of plus or minus 10% is permissible.

Rough handling shocks can be simulated by one or more of the following 60068-2-31 tests:

Drop and topple: This IEC test is used to assess the effects of knocks or jolts likely to be received during repair work or rough handling.

Free fall – Procedure 1: This test assesses the effects of falls likely to be experienced during rough handling. It is also suitable to demonstrate a degree of robustness.

Free fall – Procedure 2: This IEC 60068-2-31 test additionally simulates repetitive shocks. The shocks simulated are generally received by certain component-type specimens. For example, connectors in service.

Following all procedures, the test specimen is visually inspected as required by certain criteria.

IEC 60068-2-31 Testing Standard Procedures of Rough Handling

Drop and Topple Test Procedure

The topple test does not need to be applied to equipment with stable dimensions being handled. In the IEC 60068-2-31 test procedure where the specimen is dropped onto a face or corner, the equipment may topple onto a different face instead of falling back onto the test face. This is avoided by a method below.

Dropping a specimen onto a face is first tilted along one bottom edge so that the distance between the opposite edge and the test surface is 25 mm, 50 mm, or 100 mm. Or, if specified, the equipment angle may be 30 degrees tilted.

Dropping the specimen onto an edge corner is first raised above the test surface. The distance is measured by placing a wooden stud 10mm high under one corner. A 20 mm stud must also be placed under the other adjacent corner of one of the bottom edges. The specimen is then lifted and rotated. The angle made by the specimen and surface must be 30 degrees or a specified height in mm.

Free Fall Test Procedure 1

The test specimen is dropped freely in its normal altitudes of transport or use. Unless otherwise specified, the specimen is subjected to two falls.

The test specimen is dropped onto the surface of the test apparatus. The height of this is selected from predetermined values. The height is measured from the part of the specimen nearest to the test surface. The IEC 60068 method of releasing the specimen must allow free fall from the position of suspension without disturbances at the moment of release.

Free Fall Test Procedure 2

The IEC specimen under testing is placed on the apparatus and subjected to a specific number of falls. If the specimen is normally attached to a cable, specifications will state which cable is used.

Each specimen is tested individually. It is important to simulate the practical conditions as closely as possible. The effect of the test is compared in relation to the changes in mechanical and electrical operations of the specimen. Additionally, the 60068 lab test describes several falls from specified heights. The number of falls is selected from a given list. The number is related to the intended usage of the item.

Keystone Compliance Offers Expert IEC 60068-2-31 Testing Services

Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. In addition to environmental IEC 60068 testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including pyroshock, sand and dust, solar radiation, and humidity. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Request a quote to receive IEC laboratory testing services tailored to your specific requirements.

For more information on relative IEC 60068-2 testing standards, please follow the links below