ISO 12048 Compression and Stacking Package Testing

ISO 12048 evaluates the resistance of a transportation package to compression and stacking. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, Keystone Compliance realizes the importance of ISO 12048 compression package testing. Meeting the resistance requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met. Our accurate test reports are delivered quickly. Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve package compliance. When packages do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. We take pride in having a reputation of helping customers achieve their ISO package certifications.

Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest growing package test labs in the country. Contact us to receive more information on ISO 12048 testing.

Summary of ISO 12048 Box Compression Testing Information

This international standard specifies a method for testing the resistance to compression. The testing is of a complete, filled transport package. ISO 12048 is also used to perform a stacking test. Both the compression and stacking tests use the same packaging apparatuses.

The ISO 12048 testing protocol may be used to assess the compressive strength of a package in terms of its strength and protection it offers to its contents. This protection is when the package may be subjected to compressive forces.

Also, the ISO 12048 test may be performed as a single or sequence of specialized procedures. The single test measures the effects of compression or stacking. However, the sequence of tests measures the ability of the package to withstand a distribution system that includes a compression or stacking hazard.

Scope of ISO 12048 Compression Testing

The ISO 12048 packaging component is placed between the platens of a compression tester. In case of a compression test, a load is applied until package integrity failure occurs. In the case of a stacking test, the predetermined load is applied for a predetermined time or until failure occurs.

          Compression Test – The packaging material is first weighed and the external dimensions are measured. The package is then placed centrally on the lower platen of the test machine. 

The load is applied by relative movement of the platens at the appropriate speed. This is done in such a way that peaks in excess of the predetermined load do not occur. In measuring deformations, the initial reading is taken at the initial load.

If required, the predetermined load is maintained for a period of time or until collapse occurs. Then, the load is removed by movement of the platens.

          Stacking Test – The ISO 12048 stack testing method proceeds almost the same as the method above. Information to be noted is that the transport package is filled to resist external compression loads applied during stacking. A tester with one fixed platen is preferred.

Lastly, the load is removed from the packaged product. The package integrity is then examined. If a collapse has occurred, the dimensions and contents are measured and recorded.

Significance of ISO 12048 Stacking and Compression Testing

The ISO 12048 box compression performance test is used to model stacking in which the test investigates performance under particular conditions of load. An example of this package performance test includes when the bottom package in a stack rests on an open-decked pallet.

Information within the test reports include, but is not limited to:

• Number of replicate packages tested.
• Full description of the package, including dimensions, structural and material specifications and its fittings.
• Description of any contents.
• Mass of the package and mass of the contents.
• The attitude in which the package was tested.
• Location of measurement points on the packages and stage of the test at which measurements were made.
• Test conditions such as the rate of application of the load, the load applied and the duration of the applied load to the package.

Expert ISO Complete and Filled Transport Package Testing

Keystone Compliance strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone also has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. We can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets.

Contact us or request a quote to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their ISO 12048 package testing certification needs.

For more ISO package transportation testing standards, follow the links below: