In an era where packaging is not just a necessity but a vital component of product integrity and consumer safety, the establishment of rigorous packaging industry testing standards is paramount. These standards are designed to ensure that packaging products adhere to the highest quality, safety, and performance benchmarks for their specific applications.
Various organizations around the globe, including the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA), play a crucial role in developing and publishing these standards. By implementing comprehensive testing protocols, these organizations help manufacturers safeguard their products during transportation and storage, ultimately fostering consumer trust and satisfaction.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
Now called ASTM International, these packaging industry testing standards help ensure consistency, quality, and safety. ASTM provides a common language for defining material properties, testing methods, and performance criteria
Over 12,000 testing standards are published each year for a variety of industries. In the realm of packaging, ASTM has published multiple standards that cover different aspects of packaging testing, such as compression testing, drop testing, and seal strength testing.
Some key standards include:
- ASTM D4169: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems: This standard is widely used for evaluating the ability of shipping containers and systems to withstand the rigors of the distribution environment. These hazards include handling, warehouse stacking, vehicle vibration, and environmental hazards.
- ASTM D7386: Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Packages for Single Parcel Delivery Systems: This standard is specifically designed for packages weighing up to 150 pounds in single parcel delivery systems.
Tests including drop testing, vibration, bridged impact, and high altitude simulation. - ASTM F2096: Detecting Gross Leaks in Packaging by Internal Pressurization (Bubble Test): This non-destructive test method is crucial for maintaining product sterility, especially in medical and pharmaceutical industries. The package is submerged, filled with air, and then observed for a steady stream of bubbles indicating a leak.
- ASTM D6653: Standard Test Methods for Determining the Effects of High Altitude on Packaging Systems by Vacuum Method:
This standard evaluates the effects of high altitude on packaging. It includes altitude simulation, pressure differential testing, and temperature variation assessments. - ASTM F88: Seal Strength Testing of Pouches and Flexible Barrier Materials:
This standard is essential for evaluating the integrity of seals in flexible packaging. This standard tests the strength of seals in pouches and other flexible materials.
International Organization for Standardization
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental organization that develops and publishes international standards across various fields, packaging and manufacturing. Covering over 160 countries, the organization ensures compatibility and quality among products and services.
ISO has developed several packaging industry testing standards, such as ISO 11607, which covers the requirements for sterile medical device packaging, and ISO 8317, which specifies safety requirements for child-resistant packaging.
Purple Diamond itself is ISO accredited. Our ISO 17025 accreditation is an accreditation for testing laboratories, confirming that the facility has management, quality, and technical systems in place to ensure accurate and reliable analyses, as well as proper administrative processes to ensure that all aspects related to the sample, the analysis, and the reporting are standardized, measured, and monitored.
International Safe Transit Association (ISTA)
ISTA is a global organization dedicated to establishing standards and testing protocols to ensure the safe and reliable transport of these products.
ISTA has developed a range of packaging industry testing standards that simulate various transportation conditions, including vibration, shock, temperature, and humidity. These tests help to ensure that packaged products can survive the rigors of shipping and handling.
Some key standards include:
- ISTA 3A: This standard is for packaged products weighing 150 pounds (68 kg) or less intended for parcel delivery shipments. The types of tests conducted can vary depending on the nature of the product being shipped and the mode of transportation being used. Some of the tests include drop, vibration, compression, and environmental exposure to ensure packaging meets industry standards and protects the product from damage.
- ISTA 1A: This integrity testing for individual packaged-products, which evaluates product and package performance in comparison to alternative designs for products weighing one hundred and fifty pounds or less.
- ISTA 2A: This integrity testing for individual packaged-products, evaluating packaged-products weighing one hundred and fifty pounds or less with considerations for international distribution.
- ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC: This General simulation test for packaged-products shipped through Amazon.com distribution system by vendors to Amazon fulfillment centers to final customer destinations via parcel or less-than-truckload.
- ISTA 3B: Packaged-product testing for distribution through a motor carrier delivery system, where products are mixed in the same load, often from various shippers and intended for different destinations. Labeled as Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) and appropriate for four different package types: standard two hundred pounds or less, standard over two hundred pounds, cylindrical, and palletized.
Package Testing That Meets Your Standards
The packaging industry testing standards outlined by ASTM, ISO, and ISTA not only ensure product safety and integrity during transportation but also build consumer trust in packaged goods. By adhering to these testing protocols, manufacturers can enhance their operational efficiency and deliver products that meet or exceed industry expectations.
If you’re looking to ensure your packaging solutions are compliant and effective, reach out to us today. Contact us now to learn more about our services and how we can support your packaging needs.
