Michael
Kuebler
Technical Director - Distribution Testing, Materials Science and Engineering
United States
Contact MichaelSummary
The standard provides a uniform practice for evaluating how shipping units perform while in distribution environment by outlining a test plan that sequentially replicates the anticipated physical hazards that will / can occur. This practice should not take the place of material specification requirements or other predetermined pre-shipment test procedures.
Test Details
This standard practice is to be used as a guide to determine the appropriate test methods to most closely represent the distribution environment and on evaluating shipping units within a uniform system. The standard provides recommended test levels and are based on current industry and government practice.
Scope
ASTM D4169 is applicable to all types of shipping containers, including boxes, crates, bags, and bulk containers. The standard's primary objective is to provide a consistent framework assessing the physical dynamics that products will experience during transit. This includes considerations of handling, storage, and the rigors of various modes of transportation, such as truck, rail, and sea.
The scope is broad and encapsulates different packaging types and materials, emphasizing their performance against specific environmental stresses, including:
By assessing these variables, engineers can ensure their packaging meets the intended physical and mechanical performance criteria.
Procedures
ASTM D4169 describes standard tests that mimic different situations during shipping. The key steps in these procedures include:
Typical Parameters in ASTM D4169
The standard stipulates a variety of parameters essential for testing, including:
These parameters are critical in determining the robustness and reliability of packaging solutions.
Changes and Differences in 23e1
The 23e1 revision of ASTM D4169 includes important updates for better readability and use. Significant changes include:
These updates ensure that ASTM D4169 remains relevant and adaptable within a rapidly evolving market.
*Please note that the above information is a summary of ASTM D4169. Please refer to the ASTM website for full details.