Testing Standard:
Standard Number
ASTM D6055
Standard Title
Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
Overview for ASTM D6055:
ASTM D6055 is a test method that covers general mechanical handling of unitized loads and large shipping cases or crates to replicate the effects of mechanical handling within its distribution environment. This test method is a general guideline to conduct the testing accurately with repeatable procedures. Purple Diamond Testing offers ASTM D6055 Testing as part of our packaging integrity testing services.
ASTM D6055 provides a standard test method for evaluating the mechanical handling characteristics of unitized loads using a shaker table. The purpose of this test is to assess the ability of a unitized load to withstand the vibration and shock that may occur during transportation.
The test is conducted on a shaker table that simulates the vibration forces that a load may experience during transportation. The load is subjected to different frequencies and amplitudes of vibration, and the response of the unitized load is measured using various instruments. The test measures the resistance of the load to shifting, settling, and damage during transport.
The key parameters evaluated in this test include the dynamic compression strength, vertical stiffness, and lateral stiffness of the unitized load. These parameters provide an indication of the load’s ability to withstand the dynamic forces of transportation.
ASTM D6055 is often used to evaluate the performance of packaging materials and systems, including pallets, containers, and shipping units. The results of this test can help identify potential weaknesses in the design or construction of the packaging system and provide guidance for improving its performance.
Overall, ASTM D6055 is an important standard for evaluating the mechanical handling characteristics of unitized loads and ensuring the safe and reliable transport of goods.
Rationale for ASTM D6055:
ASTM D 6055 – Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates. Can be used to evaluate the performance of how unitized loads and large shipping cases or crates are used to protect their contents from hazards that occur during mechanical handling. Not all methods apply to a common means of material handling such as pull pack, clamp truck, and a spade lift-type. The test method is used to create general simulation hazards in a laboratory environment that are 100% repeatable.
Key Points:
- Evaluates the performance of unitized loads and large shipping cases or crates
- Provides various test methods of mechanical handling
- Consider ASTM D4169 for multiple options to run performance tests that simulate each product’s distribution cycle
- Consider ASTM D6179 to conduct rough handling on unitized loads and large shipping cases or crates
In conclusion,
1. ASTM D6055 is a standard test method for evaluating the mechanical handling of unitized loads using a pallet.
2. The purpose of this test method is to simulate real-world conditions in which loads are transported and handled using pallets, and to assess the performance of the pallet and the unitized load under various mechanical stresses.
3. The test method includes a series of procedures to evaluate the performance of the unitized load during handling, including vibration testing, drop testing, and impact testing.
4. The test method also includes procedures to evaluate the performance of the pallet itself, including strength and stiffness testing, impact resistance testing, and deflection testing.
5. The results of the ASTM D6055 test can be used to assess the suitability of a pallet and unitized load for a particular application, to identify potential weaknesses in the design or construction of a pallet, and to optimize the handling and transportation of unitized loads.
6. The test method is widely used in the packaging industry to evaluate the suitability of pallets and unitized loads for transport and handling, and to compare the performance of different pallet designs and materials.
Related Standards:
- ASTM D880 – Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems
- ASTM D4169 – Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
- ASTM D4332 – Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
- ASTM D5276 – Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by Free Fall
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