In the world of logistics and product distribution, no one wants their product to get damaged. But destructive package testing does exactly that. Although, there’s a very important purpose.
Destructive package testing plays a crucial role in analyzing the integrity of your product and packaging by intentionally damaging packaging to evaluate its resilience against the challenges of transportation, handling, and storage. This rigorous testing method ensures that products are adequately protected from potential risks such as damage, contamination, or spoilage.
Destructive package testing is especially important for products that are fragile, hazardous, or sensitive to temperature or moisture. It helps to ensure that the packaging provides adequate protection to the product, reducing the risk of damage or spoilage.
Here’s what else you should know if you’re considering destructive pacakge testing.
Types of Destructive Package Testing
Destructive package testing can involve a range of destructive methods, including:
- Drops from specific heights
- Vibrations
- Compression
- Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity
- Punctures or tears
- Bursts
- Peels
The testing is typically carried out in a controlled environment by trained technicians who carefully record the results. The test results are then used to evaluate the packaging design, materials, and other factors, and to make any necessary changes to improve the product’s performance.
Testing Standards
There are several ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards that dictate destructive package testing procedures and simulate the hazards of distribution.
ISTA Standards include:
- ISTA 1 Series: Non-simulation integrity performance tests
- ISTA 2 Series: Partial simulation performance tests
- ISTA 3 Series: General simulation performance tests
- ISTA 4 Series: Enhanced simulation performance tests
- ISTA 6 Series: Member performance tests
ASTM Standards include:
- ASTM D4169: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
- ASTM D4332: Standard Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
- ASTM D4728: Standard Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers1
- ASTM D5276: Standard Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by Free Fall
- ASTM D642: Standard Test Method for Determining Compressive Resistance of Shipping Containers, Components, and Unit Loads
Destructive Packaging at Purple Diamond
By understanding how your packaging withstands the rigors of transportation and storage, you can make informed decisions that enhance product protection and minimize the risk of damage. If you’re ready to elevate your packaging strategies and ensure the safety of your products, contact our team at Purple Diamond. Our expert team is here to help you navigate the complexities of packaging testing and design, providing tailored solutions that meet your unique needs.
