ISTA Procedure 1D Individual Packaged Products 150 lb or More

ISTA 1D – Extended Testing for Packaged-Products Over 150 lb (68 kg). Can be used to compare relative performance of package and product design variations utilizing compressive force, vibration (random or fixed displacement), and shock tests (drop or incline impact). The procedure is used to create harsh worst-case hazards in a laboratory environment while comparing multiple design variation packaging systems. 

Specific suggestions for the procedure 1D is that for unitized loads of the same product, use ISTA Procedure 1E or ISTA General Simulation Performance Test Procedure 3E. And for a single packaged-product that is unitized consider using ISTA Procedure 1E as well. For reference, a unitized load can be defined by ISTA as one or more products usually located on a skid or pallet. However, the unitized load is always secured together or restrained during distribution as a single load. 

Just like the rest of the ISTA Series Procedures, the test categories are the same. This includes atmospheric preconditioning, compression conditioning, vibration, and shock. The type of compression tests used are the apply and release test and the apply and hold test. The equipment used for these tests involve the compression test system as well as the weight and load spreader. These tests are in compliance with the apparatus section of ASTM D642 and the fixed of floating platen is acceptable, according to the ISTA booklet. 

Just as the other ISTA Series Procedures, it is important for the packaging engineers know the weight and dimensions of the packaged product. The Preconditioning is a requirement. The means that the packaged product shall be preconditioning to laboratory ambient temperature and humidity for no less than twelve hours prior to testing. 

After testing is completed, a report will be built from the specific data measured before, during, and after testing. ISTA Test Report Forms may be downloaded by members through the online ISTA Member Center. The packaged product is seen to have passed if, upon examination, the packaged product meets the product damage tolerance and package degradation allowance determined before the testing actually began. If you have questions please do not hesitate to reach out to any one on the Purple Diamond team!