ASTM D3332-99(2016)
(Test Method)Standard Test Methods for Mechanical-Shock Fragility of Products, Using Shock Machines
Standard Test Methods for Mechanical-Shock Fragility of Products, Using Shock Machines
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 These test methods are intended to provide the user with data on product shock fragility that can be used in choosing optimum-cushioning materials for shipping containers or for product design modification.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover determination of the shock fragility of products. This fragility information may be used in designing shipping containers for transporting the products. It may also be used to improve product ruggedness. Unit or consumer packages, which are transported within an outer container, are considered to be the product for the purposes of these test methods. Two test methods are outlined, as follows:
1.1.1 Test Method A is used first, to determine the product's critical velocity change.
1.1.2 Test Method B is used second, to determine the product's critical acceleration.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements, see Section 6.
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This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D3332 − 99 (Reapproved 2016)
Standard Test Methods for
Mechanical-Shock Fragility of Products, Using Shock
Machines
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3332; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope Packaging Components for Testing
D5112 Test Method for Vibration (Horizontal Linear Mo-
1.1 These test methods cover determination of the shock
tion) Test of Products
fragility of products. This fragility information may be used in
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate,With
designing shipping containers for transporting the products. It
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
may also be used to improve product ruggedness. Unit or
Lot or Process
consumer packages, which are transported within an outer
E680 Test Method for Drop Weight Impact Sensitivity of
container, are considered to be the product for the purposes of
Solid-Phase Hazardous Materials
these test methods. Two test methods are outlined, as follows:
1.1.1 Test MethodAis used first, to determine the product’s
3. Terminology
critical velocity change.
1.1.2 Test Method B is used second, to determine the
3.1 Definitions—General definitions for packing and distri-
product’s critical acceleration.
bution are found in Terminology D996.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
2 2
3.2.1 acceleration of gravity (g)—386.1 in./s (9.806 m/s ).
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.2.2 critical acceleration (A )—the maximum-faired accel-
and are not considered standard.
c
eration level for a minimum velocity change of 1.57 ∆V (see
c
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
9.3), above which product failure (or damage) occurs. A
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
product usually has a different critical acceleration for each
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
direction in which it is tested.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific
3.2.3 critical velocity change (V )—the velocity change (see
c
precautionary statements, see Section 6.
9.2) below which product failure is unaffected by shock-pulse
maximum-faired acceleration or waveform. A product usually
2. Referenced Documents
has a different critical velocity change for each direction in
2.1 ASTM Standards: which it is tested.
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
3.2.4 damage—product failure that occurs during a shock
ments
test. Damage can render the product unacceptable because it
D2463 Test Method for Drop Impact Resistance of Blow-
becomes inoperable or fails to meet performance specifications
Molded Thermoplastic Containers
when its appearance is unacceptably altered, or some combi-
D3580 Test Methods for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion)
nation of these failure modes occurs.
Test of Products
3.2.5 damage boundary—See Annex A3.
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
3.2.6 fairing—The graphical smoothing of the amplitude of
a recorded pulse still containing high frequency components
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on
even though electronic filtering may have been performed.
Packaging and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.13 on Interior
Packaging.
This amplitude is used to evaluate the basic recorded pulse
Current edition approved April 1, 2016. Published April 2016. Originally
features with respect to the specified pulse. (see Figs.A1.1 and
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D3332 – 99(2010).
A2.1)
DOI: 10.1520/D3332-99R16.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
3.2.7 shock pulse programmer—a device used to control the
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
parameters of the acceleration versus time shock pulse gener-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. ated by a shock test machine.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3332 − 99 (2016)
3.2.8 shock test machine drop height—the distance through therefore remain alert to potential hazards and take necessary
which the carriage of the shock test machine falls before safetyprecautions.Thetestareashouldbeclearedpriortoeach
striking the shock pulse programmer. impact. The testing of hazardous material or products may
require special precautions that must be observed. Safety
4. Significance and Use
equipment may be required, and its use must be understood
4.1 These test methods are intended to provide the user with
before starting the test.
data on product shock fragility that can be used in choosing
7. Sampling
optimum-cushioning materials for shipping containers or for
product design modification.
7.1 Sampling procedures and the number of test specimens
depend on the specific purposes and needs of the testing.
5. Apparatus
Sample size determination based on Practice E122 or other
5.1 Shock Test Machine:
established statistical procedures is recommended.
5.1.1 The machine shall consist of a flat horizontal test
surface (carriage) of sufficient strength and rigidity to remain 8. Conditioning
flat and horizontal under the stresses developed during the test.
8.1 If temperature and humidity conditioning is required for
The test surface shall be guided to fall vertically without
the product being tested, refer to Practice D4332 for standard
rotation or translation in other directions.
conditioning procedures. Unless otherwise specified, conduct
5.1.2 The machine shall incorporate sufficient carriage drop
all tests with the same conditions prevailing.
height to produce the shock pulses given in 9.2 and 9.3. Drop
height control shall be provided to permit reproducibility 9. Procedure
within 60.25 in. (66 mm).
9.1 Mount the product to be tested on the carriage of the
5.1.3 The machine shall be equipped to produce shock
shock test machine. The product should be supported by a
pulses at the carriage as specified in 9.2 and 9.3.
fixture similar in shape and configuration to the cushion that
5.1.4 Means shall be provided to arrest the motion of the
will support the product in its shipping container. The fixture
carriage after impact to prevent secondary shock.
should be as rigid as possible so as not to distort the shock
5.2 Instrumentation:
pulse imparted to the product. Fasten the fixture and product
5.2.1 Acceleration—An accelerometer, signal conditioner, securely to the carriage so that it will not leave the surface of
and data storage apparatus are required to record acceleration-
the carriage during the shock test.
time histories. The accelerometer shall be attached rigidly to
NOTE 1—The points at which the fixture supports the product are very
the base structure of the product or to the fixture, at or near a
important because the dynamic response of the product is influenced
point at which the fixture is fastened to the carriage. If the
strongly by the location of these support points
fixture is sufficiently rigid to not distort the shock pulse NOTE 2—If the orientation of the product can change during handling
impacts, a test may be required for each of the directions in which the
imparted to the product, the accelerometer may be mounted on
input shock can occur. Multidirectional tests are recommended since most
the carriage. In some cases, when a product contains heavy
products have different fragilities in different orientations.
resiliently supported masses that will distort the shock pulses
9.2 Test Method A—Critical Velocity Change Shock Test:
severely, it may be necessary to precalibrate the shock ma-
9.2.1 Scope—This test method is used to determine the
chine.Theaccelerometerisfastenedtothecarriageinthiscase,
critical velocity change (V ) portion of the damage boundary
c
and a rigid mass weighing the same as the product is subjected
plot of a product.
to a series of shock pulses. The instrumentation system shall
9.2.1.1 To ensure that the components of a product only
have sufficient response to permit measurements in the follow-
respond to the velocity change of the pulse, a shock pulse
ing ranges.
having any waveform and a duration (T ) not longer than 3 ms
p
5.2.1.1 Test Method A—5 Hz or less to at least 1000 Hz.
should be used to perform this test. Pulse durations as short as
5.2.1.2 Test Method B—1 Hz or less to at least 330 Hz.
0.5 ms may be required when testing small, very rigid products
5.2.1.3 Accuracy—Reading to be within 65 % of the actual
(see Note 3). Shock pulse waveform is not limited since the
value.
critical velocity portion of the damage boundary is unaffected
5.2.1.4 Cross-Axis Sensitivity—Less than 5 % of the actual
by shock pulse shape. Since they are relatively easy to control,
value.
shock pulses having a half sine shock waveform are normally
5.2.2 Velocity—Instrumentation to measure the velocity
used.
changeoftheshocktableisrequired.Thismaybeadevicethat
integrates the area electronically under the shock pulse wave-
NOTE 3—In general: T ≤ 167 / f
p c
form. Alternatively, it can be measured by photodiode-type
where:
devices that measure shock table impact and rebound velocity.
T = maximum shock test machine pulse duration in ms, and
p
Calculation that assumes the shock pulse to be a perfect
f = component natural frequency in Hz.
c
geometricfigureisusuallygrosslyinaccurateandshouldnotbe
For example, a component of a product with a natural frequency below
used.
56 Hz can be effectively tested on a shock machine witha3ms duration
pulse. If the component natural frequency is higher, the pulse duration
6. Precautions
must be shorter. A 2 ms duration pulse can be used on a component with
a natural frequency up to 83 Hz.
6.1 These test methods may produce severe mechanical
responses in the test specimen. Operating personnel must 9.2.2 Procedure:
D3332 − 99 (2016)
9.2.2.1 Set the shock test machine so that the shock pulse 9.3.2.4 Examine or functionally test the product, or do both,
produced has a velocity change below the anticipated critical to determine whether damage due to shock has occurred.
velocity change of the product. 9.3.2.5 If no damage has occurred, set the shock test
9.2.2.2 Perform one shock test. machine for a higher maximum-faired acceleration level. Be
certain that the velocity change of subsequent shock pulses is
9.2.2.3 Examine or functionally test the product, or do both,
maintained at or above the level determined in 9.3.2.1.Accept-
to determine whether damage due to shock has occurred.
able increment size is influenced strongly by the product being
9.2.2.4 If no damage has occurred, set the shock test
tested.Forexample,anincrementof5gmaybeappropriatefor
machine for a higher velocity change and repeat the shock test.
most products but unacceptable for high-value products.
Acceptableincrementsizeisinfluencedstronglybytheproduct
being tested. For example, an increment of 5 in./s (0.13 m/s)
NOTE4—Seeshockmachinemanufacturerrecommendationsforsetting
may be appropriate for most products but unacceptable for
acceleration levels because this procedure is specific to the type of
high-value products. programmer.
9.2.2.5 Repeat 9.2.2.2 – 9.2.2.4, with incrementally increas-
9.3.2.6 Repeat 9.3.2.2 – 9.3.2.5, with incrementally increas-
ing velocity change, until product damage occurs.This point is
ing maximum-faired acceleration, until product damage oc-
shown as Test No. 7 in Fig. A3.1.
curs.This point is shown asTest No. 14 in Fig.A3.1. Common
9.2.2.6 Common practice is to define the critical velocity
practice is to define the critical acceleration (A)asthe
c
change(V )asthemidpointbetweenthelastsuccessfultestand
c midpoint between the last successful test and the test that
the test that produced failure. Depending on the purpose of the
produced failure. Depending on the purpose of the test, use of
test, use of the last successful test point before failure may be
the last successful test point before failure may be considered
considered as a more conservative estimate of (V ).
as a more conservative estimate of (A ).
c
c
9.3 Test Method B—Critical Acceleration Shock Test:
10. Report
9.3.1 Scope—This test method is used to determine the
critical acceleration (A ) portion of the damage boundary plot
10.1 Report the following information:
c
of a product.
10.1.1 Reference to these test methods, noting any devia-
9.3.1.1 Whenthecriticalaccelerationofaproductisknown,
tions from the test method.
package cushioning materials can be chosen to protect it.
10.1.2 Complete identification of the product being tested,
9.3.1.2 If no cushioning materials are to be used in the
including type, manufacturer’s code numbers, general descrip-
package, it may be unnecessary to perform this test. Only the tion of configuration, and its pretest condition.
critical velocity change test may suffice in this case. 10.1.3 Method of mounting the product on the carriage of
9.3.1.3 Trapezoidal shock pulses are normally used to the shock test machine.
10.1.4 Type of instrumentation used and critical settings
perform this test. Although a true square wave shock pulse is
most desirable in theory, it is not possible to obtain infinitely thereof.
short rise and fall times. On the basis of much testing 10.1.5 Recordings of the shock pulses that caused product
experience, it has been determined that rise and fall times (see damage.
Fig.A2.1) of 1.8 ms, or less, are required. Longer rise and fall 10.1.6 Record of shock test machine drop height for each
times cause the critical acceleration line of the damage shock pulse that caused product damage.
boundary curve to deviate from the horizontal, introducing 10.1.7 Record of damage, including a photograph of prod-
errors into the test results. For the same reason, waveforms uct damage, if visible.
havingfairedshapesthatarenottrapezoidalshouldnotbeused 10.1.8 Record of waveform, maximum-faired acceleration,
for this test.Their use would cause the critical acceleration line pulse duration, and velocity change of the shock pulses.
of the damage boundary curve to vary widely as a
...
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: D3332 − 99 (Reapproved 2016)
Standard Test Methods for
Mechanical-Shock Fragility of Products, Using Shock
Machines
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3332; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope Packaging Components for Testing
D5112 Test Method for Vibration (Horizontal Linear Mo-
1.1 These test methods cover determination of the shock
tion) Test of Products
fragility of products. This fragility information may be used in
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With
designing shipping containers for transporting the products. It
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
may also be used to improve product ruggedness. Unit or
Lot or Process
consumer packages, which are transported within an outer
E680 Test Method for Drop Weight Impact Sensitivity of
container, are considered to be the product for the purposes of
Solid-Phase Hazardous Materials
these test methods. Two test methods are outlined, as follows:
1.1.1 Test Method A is used first, to determine the product’s
3. Terminology
critical velocity change.
1.1.2 Test Method B is used second, to determine the
3.1 Definitions—General definitions for packing and distri-
product’s critical acceleration.
bution are found in Terminology D996.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
2 2
3.2.1 acceleration of gravity (g)—386.1 in./s (9.806 m/s ).
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.2.2 critical acceleration (A )—the maximum-faired accel-
and are not considered standard.
c
eration level for a minimum velocity change of 1.57 ΔV (see
c
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
9.3), above which product failure (or damage) occurs. A
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
product usually has a different critical acceleration for each
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
direction in which it is tested.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific
3.2.3 critical velocity change (V )—the velocity change (see
c
precautionary statements, see Section 6.
9.2) below which product failure is unaffected by shock-pulse
maximum-faired acceleration or waveform. A product usually
2. Referenced Documents
has a different critical velocity change for each direction in
2.1 ASTM Standards: which it is tested.
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
3.2.4 damage—product failure that occurs during a shock
ments
test. Damage can render the product unacceptable because it
D2463 Test Method for Drop Impact Resistance of Blow-
becomes inoperable or fails to meet performance specifications
Molded Thermoplastic Containers
when its appearance is unacceptably altered, or some combi-
D3580 Test Methods for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion)
nation of these failure modes occurs.
Test of Products
3.2.5 damage boundary—See Annex A3.
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
3.2.6 fairing—The graphical smoothing of the amplitude of
a recorded pulse still containing high frequency components
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on
even though electronic filtering may have been performed.
Packaging and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.13 on Interior
Packaging. This amplitude is used to evaluate the basic recorded pulse
Current edition approved April 1, 2016. Published April 2016. Originally
features with respect to the specified pulse. (see Figs. A1.1 and
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D3332 – 99(2010).
A2.1)
DOI: 10.1520/D3332-99R16.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
3.2.7 shock pulse programmer—a device used to control the
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
parameters of the acceleration versus time shock pulse gener-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. ated by a shock test machine.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3332 − 99 (2016)
3.2.8 shock test machine drop height—the distance through therefore remain alert to potential hazards and take necessary
which the carriage of the shock test machine falls before safety precautions. The test area should be cleared prior to each
striking the shock pulse programmer. impact. The testing of hazardous material or products may
require special precautions that must be observed. Safety
4. Significance and Use
equipment may be required, and its use must be understood
4.1 These test methods are intended to provide the user with
before starting the test.
data on product shock fragility that can be used in choosing
7. Sampling
optimum-cushioning materials for shipping containers or for
product design modification.
7.1 Sampling procedures and the number of test specimens
depend on the specific purposes and needs of the testing.
5. Apparatus
Sample size determination based on Practice E122 or other
5.1 Shock Test Machine:
established statistical procedures is recommended.
5.1.1 The machine shall consist of a flat horizontal test
surface (carriage) of sufficient strength and rigidity to remain
8. Conditioning
flat and horizontal under the stresses developed during the test.
8.1 If temperature and humidity conditioning is required for
The test surface shall be guided to fall vertically without
the product being tested, refer to Practice D4332 for standard
rotation or translation in other directions.
conditioning procedures. Unless otherwise specified, conduct
5.1.2 The machine shall incorporate sufficient carriage drop
all tests with the same conditions prevailing.
height to produce the shock pulses given in 9.2 and 9.3. Drop
height control shall be provided to permit reproducibility
9. Procedure
within 60.25 in. (66 mm).
9.1 Mount the product to be tested on the carriage of the
5.1.3 The machine shall be equipped to produce shock
shock test machine. The product should be supported by a
pulses at the carriage as specified in 9.2 and 9.3.
fixture similar in shape and configuration to the cushion that
5.1.4 Means shall be provided to arrest the motion of the
will support the product in its shipping container. The fixture
carriage after impact to prevent secondary shock.
should be as rigid as possible so as not to distort the shock
5.2 Instrumentation: pulse imparted to the product. Fasten the fixture and product
5.2.1 Acceleration—An accelerometer, signal conditioner,
securely to the carriage so that it will not leave the surface of
and data storage apparatus are required to record acceleration- the carriage during the shock test.
time histories. The accelerometer shall be attached rigidly to
NOTE 1—The points at which the fixture supports the product are very
the base structure of the product or to the fixture, at or near a
important because the dynamic response of the product is influenced
point at which the fixture is fastened to the carriage. If the
strongly by the location of these support points
NOTE 2—If the orientation of the product can change during handling
fixture is sufficiently rigid to not distort the shock pulse
impacts, a test may be required for each of the directions in which the
imparted to the product, the accelerometer may be mounted on
input shock can occur. Multidirectional tests are recommended since most
the carriage. In some cases, when a product contains heavy
products have different fragilities in different orientations.
resiliently supported masses that will distort the shock pulses
9.2 Test Method A—Critical Velocity Change Shock Test:
severely, it may be necessary to precalibrate the shock ma-
9.2.1 Scope—This test method is used to determine the
chine. The accelerometer is fastened to the carriage in this case,
critical velocity change (V ) portion of the damage boundary
c
and a rigid mass weighing the same as the product is subjected
plot of a product.
to a series of shock pulses. The instrumentation system shall
9.2.1.1 To ensure that the components of a product only
have sufficient response to permit measurements in the follow-
respond to the velocity change of the pulse, a shock pulse
ing ranges.
having any waveform and a duration (T ) not longer than 3 ms
p
5.2.1.1 Test Method A—5 Hz or less to at least 1000 Hz.
should be used to perform this test. Pulse durations as short as
5.2.1.2 Test Method B—1 Hz or less to at least 330 Hz.
0.5 ms may be required when testing small, very rigid products
5.2.1.3 Accuracy—Reading to be within 65 % of the actual
(see Note 3). Shock pulse waveform is not limited since the
value.
critical velocity portion of the damage boundary is unaffected
5.2.1.4 Cross-Axis Sensitivity—Less than 5 % of the actual
by shock pulse shape. Since they are relatively easy to control,
value.
shock pulses having a half sine shock waveform are normally
5.2.2 Velocity—Instrumentation to measure the velocity
used.
change of the shock table is required. This may be a device that
integrates the area electronically under the shock pulse wave-
NOTE 3—In general: T ≤ 167 / f
p c
form. Alternatively, it can be measured by photodiode-type
where:
devices that measure shock table impact and rebound velocity.
T = maximum shock test machine pulse duration in ms, and
p
Calculation that assumes the shock pulse to be a perfect
f = component natural frequency in Hz.
c
geometric figure is usually grossly inaccurate and should not be
For example, a component of a product with a natural frequency below
used.
56 Hz can be effectively tested on a shock machine with a 3 ms duration
pulse. If the component natural frequency is higher, the pulse duration
6. Precautions
must be shorter. A 2 ms duration pulse can be used on a component with
a natural frequency up to 83 Hz.
6.1 These test methods may produce severe mechanical
responses in the test specimen. Operating personnel must 9.2.2 Procedure:
D3332 − 99 (2016)
9.2.2.1 Set the shock test machine so that the shock pulse 9.3.2.4 Examine or functionally test the product, or do both,
produced has a velocity change below the anticipated critical to determine whether damage due to shock has occurred.
velocity change of the product. 9.3.2.5 If no damage has occurred, set the shock test
machine for a higher maximum-faired acceleration level. Be
9.2.2.2 Perform one shock test.
certain that the velocity change of subsequent shock pulses is
9.2.2.3 Examine or functionally test the product, or do both,
maintained at or above the level determined in 9.3.2.1. Accept-
to determine whether damage due to shock has occurred.
able increment size is influenced strongly by the product being
9.2.2.4 If no damage has occurred, set the shock test
tested. For example, an increment of 5 g may be appropriate for
machine for a higher velocity change and repeat the shock test.
most products but unacceptable for high-value products.
Acceptable increment size is influenced strongly by the product
being tested. For example, an increment of 5 in./s (0.13 m/s)
NOTE 4—See shock machine manufacturer recommendations for setting
may be appropriate for most products but unacceptable for
acceleration levels because this procedure is specific to the type of
high-value products. programmer.
9.2.2.5 Repeat 9.2.2.2 – 9.2.2.4, with incrementally increas-
9.3.2.6 Repeat 9.3.2.2 – 9.3.2.5, with incrementally increas-
ing velocity change, until product damage occurs. This point is
ing maximum-faired acceleration, until product damage oc-
shown as Test No. 7 in Fig. A3.1.
curs. This point is shown as Test No. 14 in Fig. A3.1. Common
9.2.2.6 Common practice is to define the critical velocity
practice is to define the critical acceleration (A ) as the
c
change (V ) as the midpoint between the last successful test and
midpoint between the last successful test and the test that
c
the test that produced failure. Depending on the purpose of the
produced failure. Depending on the purpose of the test, use of
test, use of the last successful test point before failure may be
the last successful test point before failure may be considered
considered as a more conservative estimate of (V ).
c as a more conservative estimate of (A ).
c
9.3 Test Method B—Critical Acceleration Shock Test:
10. Report
9.3.1 Scope—This test method is used to determine the
critical acceleration (A ) portion of the damage boundary plot
10.1 Report the following information:
c
of a product.
10.1.1 Reference to these test methods, noting any devia-
9.3.1.1 When the critical acceleration of a product is known,
tions from the test method.
package cushioning materials can be chosen to protect it.
10.1.2 Complete identification of the product being tested,
9.3.1.2 If no cushioning materials are to be used in the including type, manufacturer’s code numbers, general descrip-
package, it may be unnecessary to perform this test. Only the
tion of configuration, and its pretest condition.
critical velocity change test may suffice in this case. 10.1.3 Method of mounting the product on the carriage of
the shock test machine.
9.3.1.3 Trapezoidal shock pulses are normally used to
perform this test. Although a true square wave shock pulse is 10.1.4 Type of instrumentation used and critical settings
thereof.
most desirable in theory, it is not possible to obtain infinitely
short rise and fall times. On the basis of much testing 10.1.5 Recordings of the shock pulses that caused product
experience, it has been determined that rise and fall times (see damage.
Fig. A2.1) of 1.8 ms, or less, are required. Longer rise and fall 10.1.6 Record of shock test machine drop height for each
times cause the critical acceleration line of the damage shock pulse that caused product damage.
boundary curve to deviate from the horizontal, introducing 10.1.7 Record of damage, including a photograph of prod-
errors into the test results. For the same reason, waveforms uct damage, if visible.
having faired shapes that are not trapezoidal should not be used 10.1.8 Record of waveform, maximum-faired acceleration,
for this test. Their use would cause the critical acceleration line pulse duration, and velocity change of the shock pulses.
of the damage boundary curve to vary widely as a function
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D3332 − 99 (Reapproved 2010) D3332 − 99 (Reapproved 2016)
Standard Test Methods for
Mechanical-Shock Fragility of Products, Using Shock
Machines
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3332; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 These test methods cover determination of the shock fragility of products. This fragility information may be used in
designing shipping containers for transporting the products. It may also be used to improve product ruggedness. Unit or consumer
packages, which are transported within an outer container, are considered to be the product for the purposes of these test methods.
Two test methods are outlined, as follows:
1.1.1 Test Method A is used first, to determine the product’s critical velocity change.
1.1.2 Test Method B is used second, to determine the product’s critical acceleration.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements, see Section 6.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
D2463 Test Method for Drop Impact Resistance of Blow-Molded Thermoplastic Containers
D3580 Test Methods for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion) Test of Products
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
D5112 Test Method for Vibration (Horizontal Linear Motion) Test of Products
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or
Process
E680 Test Method for Drop Weight Impact Sensitivity of Solid-Phase Hazardous Materials
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—General definitions for packing and distribution are found in Terminology D996.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
2 2
3.2.1 acceleration of gravity (g)—386.1 in./s (9.806 m/s ).
3.2.2 critical acceleration (A )—the maximum-faired acceleration level for a minimum velocity change of 1.57 ΔV (see 9.3),
c c
above which product failure (or damage) occurs. A product usually has a different critical acceleration for each direction in which
it is tested.
3.2.3 critical velocity change (V )—the velocity change (see 9.2) below which product failure is unaffected by shock-pulse
c
maximum-faired acceleration or waveform. A product usually has a different critical velocity change for each direction in which
it is tested.
3.2.4 damage—product failure that occurs during a shock test. Damage can render the product unacceptable because it becomes
inoperable or fails to meet performance specifications when its appearance is unacceptably altered, or some combination of these
failure modes occurs.
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Packaging and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.13 on Interior Packaging.
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2010April 1, 2016. Published January 2010April 2016. Originally approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 20042010 as
D3332 – 99(2004).(2010). DOI: 10.1520/D3332-99R10.10.1520/D3332-99R16.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3332 − 99 (2016)
3.2.5 damage boundary—See Annex A3.
3.2.6 fairing—The graphical smoothing of the amplitude of a recorded pulse still containing high frequency components even
though electronic filtering may have been performed. This amplitude is used to evaluate the basic recorded pulse features with
respect to the specified pulse. (see Figs. A1.1 and A2.1)
3.2.7 shock pulse programmer—a device used to control the parameters of the acceleration versus time shock pulse generated
by a shock test machine.
3.2.8 shock test machine drop height—the distance through which the carriage of the shock test machine falls before striking
the shock pulse programmer.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 These test methods are intended to provide the user with data on product shock fragility that can be used in choosing
optimum-cushioning materials for shipping containers or for product design modification.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Shock Test Machine:
5.1.1 The machine shall consist of a flat horizontal test surface (carriage) of sufficient strength and rigidity to remain flat and
horizontal under the stresses developed during the test. The test surface shall be guided to fall vertically without rotation or
translation in other directions.
5.1.2 The machine shall incorporate sufficient carriage drop height to produce the shock pulses given in 9.2 and 9.3. Drop height
control shall be provided to permit reproducibility within 60.25 in. (66 mm).
5.1.3 The machine shall be equipped to produce shock pulses at the carriage as specified in 9.2 and 9.3.
5.1.4 Means shall be provided to arrest the motion of the carriage after impact to prevent secondary shock.
5.2 Instrumentation:
5.2.1 Acceleration—An accelerometer, signal conditioner, and data storage apparatus are required to record acceleration-time
histories. The accelerometer shall be attached rigidly to the base structure of the product or to the fixture, at or near a point at which
the fixture is fastened to the carriage. If the fixture is sufficiently rigid to not distort the shock pulse imparted to the product, the
accelerometer may be mounted on the carriage. In some cases, when a product contains heavy resiliently supported masses that
will distort the shock pulses severely, it may be necessary to precalibrate the shock machine. The accelerometer is fastened to the
carriage in this case, and a rigid mass weighing the same as the product is subjected to a series of shock pulses. The instrumentation
system shall have sufficient response to permit measurements in the following ranges.
5.2.1.1 Test Method A—5 Hz or less to at least 1000 Hz.
5.2.1.2 Test Method B—1 Hz or less to at least 330 Hz.
5.2.1.3 Accuracy—Reading to be within 65 % of the actual value.
5.2.1.4 Cross-Axis Sensitivity—Less than 5 % of the actual value.
5.2.2 Velocity—Instrumentation to measure the velocity change of the shock table is required. This may be a device that
integrates the area electronically under the shock pulse waveform. Alternatively, it can be measured by photodiode-type devices
that measure shock table impact and rebound velocity. Calculation that assumes the shock pulse to be a perfect geometric figure
is usually grossly inaccurate and should not be used.
6. Precautions
6.1 These test methods may produce severe mechanical responses in the test specimen. Operating personnel must therefore
remain alert to potential hazards and take necessary safety precautions. The test area should be cleared prior to each impact. The
testing of hazardous material or products may require special precautions that must be observed. Safety equipment may be
required, and its use must be understood before starting the test.
7. Sampling
7.1 Sampling procedures and the number of test specimens depend on the specific purposes and needs of the testing. Sample
size determination based on Practice E122 or other established statistical procedures is recommended.
8. Conditioning
8.1 If temperature and humidity conditioning is required for the product being tested, refer to Practice D4332 for standard
conditioning procedures. Unless otherwise specified, conduct all tests with the same conditions prevailing.
9. Procedure
9.1 Mount the product to be tested on the carriage of the shock test machine. The product should be supported by a fixture
similar in shape and configuration to the cushion that will support the product in its shipping container. The fixture should be as
D3332 − 99 (2016)
rigid as possible so as not to distort the shock pulse imparted to the product. Fasten the fixture and product securely to the carriage
so that it will not leave the surface of the carriage during the shock test.
NOTE 1—The points at which the fixture supports the product are very important because the dynamic response of the product is influenced strongly
by the location of these support points
NOTE 2—If the orientation of the product can change during handling impacts, a test may be required for each of the directions in which the input shock
can occur. Multidirectional tests are recommended since most products have different fragilities in different orientations.
9.2 Test Method A—Critical Velocity Change Shock Test:
9.2.1 Scope—This test method is used to determine the critical velocity change (V ) portion of the damage boundary plot of a
c
product.
9.2.1.1 To ensure that the components of a product only respond to the velocity change of the pulse, a shock pulse having any
waveform and a duration (T ) not longer than 3 ms should be used to perform this test. Pulse durations as short as 0.5 ms may
p
be required when testing small, very rigid products (see Note 3). Shock pulse waveform is not limited since the critical velocity
portion of the damage boundary is unaffected by shock pulse shape. Since they are relatively easy to control, shock pulses having
a half sine shock waveform are normally used.
NOTE 3—In general: T ≤ 167 / f
p c
where:
T = maximum shock test machine pulse duration in ms, and
p
f = component natural frequency in Hz.
c
For example, a component of a product with a natural frequency below 56 Hz can be effectively tested on a shock machine with a 3 ms duration pulse.
If the component natural frequency is higher, the pulse duration must be shorter. A 2 ms duration pulse can be used on a component with a natural
frequency up to 83 Hz.
9.2.2 Procedure:
9.2.2.1 Set the shock test machine so that the shock pulse produced has a velocity change below the anticipated critical velocity
change of the product.
9.2.2.2 Perform one shock test.
9.2.2.3 Examine or functionally test the product, or do both, to determine whether damage due to shock has occurred.
9.2.2.4 If no damage has occurred, set the shock test machine for a higher velocity change and repeat the shock test. Acceptable
increment size is influenced strongly by the product being tested. For example, an increment of 5 in./s (0.13 m/s) may be
appropriate for most products but unacceptable for high-value products.
9.2.2.5 Repeat 9.2.2.2 – 9.2.2.4, with incrementally increasing velocity change, until product damage occurs. This point is
shown as Test No. 7 in Fig. A3.1.
9.2.2.6 Common practice is to define the critical velocity change (V ) as the midpoint between the last successful test and the
c
test that produced failure. Depending on the purpose of the test, use of the last successful test point before failure may be
considered as a more conservative estimate of (V ).
c
9.3 Test Method B—Critical Acceleration Shock Test:
9.3.1 Scope—This test method is used to determine the critical acceleration (A ) portion of the damage boundary plot of a
c
product.
9.3.1.1 When the critical acceleration of a product is known, package cushioning materials can be chosen to protect it.
9.3.1.2 If no cushioning materials are to be used in the package, it may be unnecessary to perform this test. Only the critical
velocity change test may suffice in this case.
9.3.1.3 Trapezoidal shock pulses are normally used to perform this test. Although a true square wave shock pulse is most
desirable in theory, it is not possible to obtain infinitely short rise and fall times. On the basis of much testing experience, it has
been determined that rise and fall times (see Fig. A2.1) of 1.8 ms, or less, are required. Longer rise and fall times cause the critical
acceleration line of the damage boundary curve to deviate from the horizontal, introducing errors into the test results. For the same
reason, waveforms having faired shapes that are not trapezoidal should not be used for this test. Their use would cause the critical
acceleration line of the damage boundary curve to vary widely as a function of velocity change. For example, if a half sine shock
pulse waveform is used, a deeply scalloped critical acceleration line is produced and the test data become meaningless.
9.3.2 Procedure:
9.3.2.1 Set the shock test machine so that it will produce a trapezoidal shock pulse having a velocity change of at least 1.57
times as great as the critical velocity change determined in Test Method A (9.2). A factor of 2 or more is normally used for an added
safety margin. This is required to avoid the rounded intersection of the critical velocity change and critical acceleration lines.
Maximum-faired acceleration level of the first shock pulse should be below the anticipated failure level of the product.
9.3.2.2 Perform one shock test.
9.3.2.3 Examine the recorded shock pulse to be certain the desired maximum-faired acceleration and velocity change were
obtained.
9.3.2.4 Examine or functionally test the product, or do both, to determine whether damage due to shock has occurred.
D3332 − 99 (2016)
9.3.2.5 If no damage has occurred, set the shock test machine for a higher maximum-faired acceleration level. Be certain that
the velocity change of subsequent shock pulses is maintained at or above the level determined in 9.3.2.1. Acceptable increment
size is influenced strongly by the product being tested. For example, an increment of 5 g may be appropriate for most products
but unacceptable for high-value products.
NOTE 4—See shock machine manufacturer recommendations for setting acceleration levels because this procedure is specific to the type of
programmer.
9.3.2.6 Repeat 9.3.2.2 – 9.3.2.5, with inc
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