ASTM D999-08(2015)
(Test Method)Standard Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
Standard Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Shipping containers are exposed to complex dynamic stresses when subjected to vibration present in all transportation vehicles. Approximating the actual damage, or lack of damage, experienced in shipping may require subjecting the container(s) and contents to vibration inputs.
4.2 Resonant responses during shipment can be severe and may lead to package or product failure. Identification of critical frequencies, and the nature of package stresses can aid in minimizing the effect of these occurrences.
4.3 Vibration tests should be based on representative field data. When possible, the confidence level may be improved by comparing laboratory test results with actual field shipment data. It is highly recommended that one understand the most common failures to one’s products and packaging in distribution, and then attempt to replicate those failures in the laboratory. Once such replication is established, then that test can become the minimum necessary test for future packaged products to pass.
4.4 Exposure to vibration can affect the shipping container, its interior packaging, means of closure, and contents. These tests allow analysis of the interaction of these components. Design modification to one or more of these components may be utilized to achieve optimum performance in the shipping environment.
4.5 Methods A1 and A2, Repetitive Shock Tests, are suitable for tests of individual containers that are transported unrestrained on the bed of a vehicle and may be suitable for tests of containers that might be subjected to repetitive shocks due to magnification of vibrations in unit loads or stacks.
Note 1: Methods A1 and A2 produce different vibration motions, and therefore, will generate different forces which may result in different damage modes and intensities. Results from these two methods may not correlate with one another.
4.6 Method B, Single Container Resonance Test, tests or determines the ability of an individual container and its inter...
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover vibration tests of filled shipping containers. Such tests may be used to assess the performance of a container, with its interior packing and means of closure, both in terms of its strength and of the protection it provides its contents when it is subjected to vibration such as it experiences in transportation. These procedures are suitable for testing containers of any form, material, kind, design of interior packing, means of closure, and any size and weight. They are not intended for determining the response of products to vibration for product design purposes, nor are they intended for tests of products in their operational configuration as other more suitable procedures are available for these purposes.2,3
1.2 The following methods appear:
Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion).
Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion).
Method B—Single Container Resonance Test.
Method C—Palletized Load, Unitized Load, or Vertical
Stack Resonance Test.
1.3 For testing of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) containing liquid hazardous materials, refer to Test Method D7387.
1.4 These test methods fulfill the requirements of International Organization for Standardization standards ISO 8318 and ISO 2247. The ISO standards may not meet the requirements for these methods.
1.5 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.
1.6 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. Specific precautionary statements are given in 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: D999 − 08 (Reapproved 2015)
Standard Test Methods for
Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D999; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 These test methods cover vibration tests of filled ship-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ping containers. Such tests may be used to assess the perfor-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
mance of a container, with its interior packing and means of
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precau-
closure, both in terms of its strength and of the protection it
tionary statements are given in Section 6.
provides its contents when it is subjected to vibration such as
it experiences in transportation. These procedures are suitable
2. Referenced Documents
for testing containers of any form, material, kind, design of
2.1 ASTM Standards:
interior packing, means of closure, and any size and weight.
D996Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
Theyarenotintendedfordeterminingtheresponseofproducts
ments
to vibration for product design purposes, nor are they intended
D3580Test Methods for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion)
for tests of products in their operational configuration as other
2,3
Test of Products
more suitable procedures are available for these purposes.
D4169Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Con-
1.2 The following methods appear:
tainers and Systems
Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion).
D4332Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion).
Packaging Components for Testing
Method B—Single Container Resonance Test.
D7387Test Method for Vibration Testing of Intermediate
Method C—Palletized Load, Unitized Load, or Vertical
Bulk Containers (IBCs) Used for Shipping Liquid Haz-
Stack Resonance Test.
ardous Materials (Dangerous Goods)
E122PracticeforCalculatingSampleSizetoEstimate,With
1.3 For testing of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) con-
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
taining liquid hazardous materials, refer to Test Method
Lot or Process
D7387.
2.2 ISO Standards:
1.4 These test methods fulfill the requirements of Interna-
ISO 2247 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport
tional Organization for Standardization standards ISO 8318
Packages—Vibration Test at Fixed Low Frequency
and ISO 2247. The ISO standards may not meet the require-
ISO 8318 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport
ments for these methods.
Packages—Vibration Tests Using a Variable Frequency
1.5 Thevaluesstatedininch-poundunitsaretoberegarded
3. Terminology
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.1 Definitions:
and are not considered standard.
3.1.1 Fordefinitionsoftermsusedinthesetestmethods,see
Terminology D996.
3.1.2 double amplitude, n—the maximum value of a sinu-
soidal quantity (peak-to-peak).
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on
Packaging and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping
3.1.3 octave, n—the interval between two frequencies hav-
Containers and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods.
ing a ratio of two (2).
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2015. Published October 2015. Originally
approved in 1948. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as D999–08. DOI:
10.1520/D0999-08R15.
2 4
Military Standard Environmental Test Methods, MIL-STD-810F, Method514, For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Vibration, available from www.dodssp.daps.mil/dodssp.htm. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
International Electrotechnical Commission Recommendation, Publication 68- Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
2-6, Part 2, Test F: Vibration, Basic Environmental Testing Procedures for the ASTM website.
Electronic Components and Electrical Equipment, available from American Na- Available fromAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
tional Standards Institute, Inc., 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D999 − 08 (2015)
3.1.4 power spectral density (PSD), n—used to quantify the 4.7 Method C, Palletized Load, Unitized Load or Vertical
intensity of random vibration in terms of mean-square accel- Stack Resonance Test,coversthedeterminationofthepresence
2 2 2
erationperunitoffrequency.Theunitsare g /Hz((m/s ) /Hz), and the effects of resonance in palletized loads and multiple-
where g is the acceleration of gravity, equal to 386 in./s (9.8 unit stacked loads, and whether or not the strength of the
m/s ).Powerspectraldensityisthelimitingmeansquarevalue containers is sufficient to withstand dynamic loads when
in a given rectangular bandwidth divided by the bandwidth, as stacked.
the bandwidth approaches zero.
4.8 Any or all of these test methods may be employed, as
3.1.5 repetitive shock, n—impacts of a package on a test determined by the appropriate performance specification, with
platform which occur cyclically from input oscillatory motion. test intensities, frequency ranges, and test durations as called
forinthespecification.Althoughthesetestsdonotsimulatethe
3.1.6 resonance, n—for a system undergoing forced
shipping environment, they are intended to create the damage-
vibration, the frequency at which any change of the exciting
producing potential of the shipping environment. Results of
frequency, positive and negative, in the vicinity of the exciting
any one of these methods may differ from the results of the
frequency causes a decrease in the response of the system.
others.
4. Significance and Use
5. Apparatus
4.1 Shipping containers are exposed to complex dynamic 5.1 Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion):
stresses when subjected to vibration present in all transporta-
5.1.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a
tion vehicles. Approximating the actual damage, or lack of horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the
damage, experienced in shipping may require subjecting the
applied vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test
container(s) and contents to vibration inputs.
surfacewhenloadedwiththetestspecimen.Theplatformshall
be supported by a mechanism that vibrates it so the motion is
4.2 Resonant responses during shipment can be severe and
approximately a vertical sinusoidal input. (A rotary motion of
mayleadtopackageorproductfailure.Identificationofcritical
theplatformisnotacceptable.)Thedoubleamplitudedisplace-
frequencies, and the nature of package stresses can aid in
ment of the vibration shall be fixed at or controlled to 1 in. (25
minimizing the effect of these occurrences.
mm),andthefrequencyshallbevariablewithintherangefrom
4.3 Vibration tests should be based on representative field
2 to at least 5 Hz (cycles per second). The vibration test
data.When possible, the confidence level may be improved by
machine shall be equipped with fences, barricades, or other
comparing laboratory test results with actual field shipment
restraints to keep the test specimen from falling off the
data. It is highly recommended that one understand the most
platform without restricting its vertical motion.
common failures to one’s products and packaging in
5.2 Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion):
distribution, and then attempt to replicate those failures in the
5.2.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a
laboratory. Once such replication is established, then that test
horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the
can become the minimum necessary test for future packaged
applied vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test
products to pass.
surfacewhenloadedwiththetestspecimen.Theplatformshall
4.4 Exposure to vibration can affect the shipping container, besupportedbyamechanismthatvibratesitsothatthemotion
its interior packaging, means of closure, and contents. These
isarotationalinputwiththeverticalcomponentapproximately
tests allow analysis of the interaction of these components. sinusoidal.Thedoubleamplitudedisplacementofthevibration
Design modification to one or more of these components may
shallbefixedat1in.(25mm),andfrequencyshallbevariable
be utilized to achieve optimum performance in the shipping from 2 to at least 5 Hz (cycles per second). The vibration test
environment.
machine shall be equipped with fences, barricades, or other
restraints to keep the test specimen from falling off the
4.5 Methods A1 and A2, Repetitive Shock Tests, are suitable
platform without restricting its vertical motion.
for tests of individual containers that are transported unre-
5.3 Metal Shim:
strainedonthebedofavehicleandmaybesuitablefortestsof
5.3.1 A metal shim is used in Methods A1 and A2 for
containers that might be subjected to repetitive shocks due to
determining when the shipping container is leaving the testing
magnification of vibrations in unit loads or stacks.
platform by a sufficient amount as described in Section 9.
NOTE 1—MethodsA1 andA2 produce different vibration motions, and
5.3.2 SpecificationsformetalshimusedinMethodsA1and
therefore, will generate different forces which may result in different
A2:
damage modes and intensities. Results from these two methods may not
correlate with one another.
Width: 50 mm (20. in.) minimum
Thickness: 1.6 mm ( ⁄16 in.)
4.6 Method B, Single Container Resonance Test, tests or
Length: 254 mm (10 in.) minimum
determinestheabilityofanindividualcontaineranditsinterior
5.4 Methods B and C—Resonance Tests:
packagingtoprotectthecontentsfromtransportationvibration,
5.4.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a
particularly when the container and its contents might exhibit
horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the
resonant responses.
applied vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test
surfacewhenloadedwiththetestspecimen.Theplatformshall
NOTE 2—Individual products that are palletized might be better tested
using Method C. besupportedbyamechanismcapableofproducingvibrationin
D999 − 08 (2015)
the vertical linear plane at controlled accelerations or the contents during the test, holes may be cut in noncritical
displacements,orboth,overacontrolledcontinuouslyvariable areas of the container.
range of frequencies. (A rotary motion of the platform is not
7.3 Whenever sufficient containers and contents are
acceptable.) Suitable fixtures and attachment points shall be
available, it is highly desirable that five or more replicate tests
provided to rigidly attach the test container to the platform for
be conducted to improve the statistical reliability of the data
Method B. Restraints shall be provided to restrain the horizon-
obtained (see Practice E122).
tal motion of the test specimens on the platform without
restricting the vertical motion of the specimen(s), for Method
8. Conditioning
C.
8.1 Condition test specimens prior to the test or during the
5.5 Instrumentation—Accelerometers, signal conditioners,
test, or both, in accordance with the requirements of the
anddatadisplayorstoragedevicesarerequiredtomeasureand
applicable specification. When no conditioning requirements
control the accelerations at the test surface in Methods B and
aregiven,andthecontainermaterialsareclimaticallysensitive,
C. Instrumentation may also be desirable for monitoring the
a conditioning atmosphere is recommended (see Practice
responseofthecontainersandpackageditems.Theinstrumen-
D4332 for standard and special conditions).
tation system shall have a response accurate to within 65%
9. Procedure
over the range specified for the test.Accelerometers should be
small and light weight enough as to not influence the response
9.1 Methods A1 and A2—Repetitive Shock Tests:
oftheitembeingmeasurednorinfluencetheresultsofthetest.
9.1.1 Place the shipping container on the test machine
Detailedinformationonsuitableinstrumentationmaybefound
platform in its normal shipping orientation.
in the Shock and Vibration Handbook.
9.1.1.1 For Method A1, place the shipping container in the
center of the platform. For Method A2, place the shipping
5.6 Conditioning Apparatus—Adequate facilities shall be
container near the backstop or fence, equidistant from each
provided for conditioning test specimens at selected humidity
side of the platform.
and temperature prior to or during the test, or both, in
9.1.1.2 Restraining devices may be needed to prevent the
accordance with the requirements of the applicable specifica-
shipping container from moving horizontally or to prevent
tion.
excessive rocking. Restraining devices may effect the vertical
6. Safety Precautions movement of the shipping container and attention must be
given to how and where restraints are used.
6.1 These test methods may produce severe mechanical
9.1.1.3 When restraining devices are used, orient and adjust
responses of the test specimens. Therefore, fences, barricades,
the restraining devices to allow free horizontal movement of
and other restraints must have sufficient strength and must be
the shipping container without restricting the vertical move-
adequately secured. Operating personnel must remain alert to
ment. There should be no severe horizontal impacting of
potential hazards and take necessary precautions for their
containers against restraints.
safety. Stop the test immediately if a dangerous condition
9.1.2 Start the vibration of the platform at a frequency of
should develop. For example, causing the container to go into
about 2 Hz, and steadily increase the frequency until the metal
resonance during testing may result in uncontrollable respon-
shim can be inserted under one long edge of the container and
sive bouncing. This may also lead to a dangerous situation,
moved intermittently along the entire length of the container.
over-testing,orprematurefailuresandpotentialsafetyissuesto
When inserted, the shim must be flat, not at
...
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: D999 − 08 (Reapproved 2015)
Standard Test Methods for
Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D999; 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 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 These test methods cover vibration tests of filled ship-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ping containers. Such tests may be used to assess the perfor-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
mance of a container, with its interior packing and means of
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precau-
closure, both in terms of its strength and of the protection it
tionary statements are given in Section 6.
provides its contents when it is subjected to vibration such as
it experiences in transportation. These procedures are suitable
2. Referenced Documents
for testing containers of any form, material, kind, design of
2.1 ASTM Standards:
interior packing, means of closure, and any size and weight.
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
They are not intended for determining the response of products
ments
to vibration for product design purposes, nor are they intended
D3580 Test Methods for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion)
for tests of products in their operational configuration as other
2,3
Test of Products
more suitable procedures are available for these purposes.
D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Con-
1.2 The following methods appear:
tainers and Systems
Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion).
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion).
Packaging Components for Testing
Method B—Single Container Resonance Test.
D7387 Test Method for Vibration Testing of Intermediate
Method C—Palletized Load, Unitized Load, or Vertical
Bulk Containers (IBCs) Used for Shipping Liquid Haz-
Stack Resonance Test.
ardous Materials (Dangerous Goods)
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With
1.3 For testing of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) con-
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
taining liquid hazardous materials, refer to Test Method
Lot or Process
D7387.
2.2 ISO Standards:
1.4 These test methods fulfill the requirements of Interna-
ISO 2247 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport
tional Organization for Standardization standards ISO 8318 5
Packages—Vibration Test at Fixed Low Frequency
and ISO 2247. The ISO standards may not meet the require-
ISO 8318 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport
ments for these methods. 5
Packages—Vibration Tests Using a Variable Frequency
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
3. Terminology
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.1 Definitions:
and are not considered standard.
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in these test methods, see
Terminology D996.
3.1.2 double amplitude, n—the maximum value of a sinu-
1 soidal quantity (peak-to-peak).
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on
Packaging and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping
3.1.3 octave, n—the interval between two frequencies hav-
Containers and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods.
ing a ratio of two (2).
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2015. Published October 2015. Originally
approved in 1948. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as D999 – 08. DOI:
10.1520/D0999-08R15.
2 4
Military Standard Environmental Test Methods, MIL-STD-810F, Method 514, For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Vibration, available from www.dodssp.daps.mil/dodssp.htm. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
International Electrotechnical Commission Recommendation, Publication 68- Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
2-6, Part 2, Test F: Vibration, Basic Environmental Testing Procedures for the ASTM website.
Electronic Components and Electrical Equipment, available from American Na- Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
tional Standards Institute, Inc., 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D999 − 08 (2015)
3.1.4 power spectral density (PSD), n—used to quantify the 4.7 Method C, Palletized Load, Unitized Load or Vertical
intensity of random vibration in terms of mean-square accel- Stack Resonance Test, covers the determination of the presence
2 2 2
eration per unit of frequency. The units are g /Hz ((m/s ) /Hz), and the effects of resonance in palletized loads and multiple-
where g is the acceleration of gravity, equal to 386 in./s (9.8 unit stacked loads, and whether or not the strength of the
m/s ). Power spectral density is the limiting mean square value containers is sufficient to withstand dynamic loads when
in a given rectangular bandwidth divided by the bandwidth, as stacked.
the bandwidth approaches zero.
4.8 Any or all of these test methods may be employed, as
3.1.5 repetitive shock, n—impacts of a package on a test determined by the appropriate performance specification, with
platform which occur cyclically from input oscillatory motion. test intensities, frequency ranges, and test durations as called
for in the specification. Although these tests do not simulate the
3.1.6 resonance, n—for a system undergoing forced
shipping environment, they are intended to create the damage-
vibration, the frequency at which any change of the exciting
producing potential of the shipping environment. Results of
frequency, positive and negative, in the vicinity of the exciting
any one of these methods may differ from the results of the
frequency causes a decrease in the response of the system.
others.
4. Significance and Use
5. Apparatus
4.1 Shipping containers are exposed to complex dynamic
5.1 Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion):
stresses when subjected to vibration present in all transporta- 5.1.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a
tion vehicles. Approximating the actual damage, or lack of
horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the
damage, experienced in shipping may require subjecting the
applied vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test
container(s) and contents to vibration inputs.
surface when loaded with the test specimen. The platform shall
be supported by a mechanism that vibrates it so the motion is
4.2 Resonant responses during shipment can be severe and
approximately a vertical sinusoidal input. (A rotary motion of
may lead to package or product failure. Identification of critical
the platform is not acceptable.) The double amplitude displace-
frequencies, and the nature of package stresses can aid in
ment of the vibration shall be fixed at or controlled to 1 in. (25
minimizing the effect of these occurrences.
mm), and the frequency shall be variable within the range from
4.3 Vibration tests should be based on representative field
2 to at least 5 Hz (cycles per second). The vibration test
data. When possible, the confidence level may be improved by
machine shall be equipped with fences, barricades, or other
comparing laboratory test results with actual field shipment
restraints to keep the test specimen from falling off the
data. It is highly recommended that one understand the most
platform without restricting its vertical motion.
common failures to one’s products and packaging in
5.2 Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion):
distribution, and then attempt to replicate those failures in the
5.2.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a
laboratory. Once such replication is established, then that test
horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the
can become the minimum necessary test for future packaged
applied vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test
products to pass.
surface when loaded with the test specimen. The platform shall
4.4 Exposure to vibration can affect the shipping container,
be supported by a mechanism that vibrates it so that the motion
its interior packaging, means of closure, and contents. These is a rotational input with the vertical component approximately
tests allow analysis of the interaction of these components.
sinusoidal. The double amplitude displacement of the vibration
Design modification to one or more of these components may shall be fixed at 1 in. (25 mm), and frequency shall be variable
be utilized to achieve optimum performance in the shipping
from 2 to at least 5 Hz (cycles per second). The vibration test
environment. machine shall be equipped with fences, barricades, or other
restraints to keep the test specimen from falling off the
4.5 Methods A1 and A2, Repetitive Shock Tests, are suitable
platform without restricting its vertical motion.
for tests of individual containers that are transported unre-
5.3 Metal Shim:
strained on the bed of a vehicle and may be suitable for tests of
5.3.1 A metal shim is used in Methods A1 and A2 for
containers that might be subjected to repetitive shocks due to
magnification of vibrations in unit loads or stacks. determining when the shipping container is leaving the testing
platform by a sufficient amount as described in Section 9.
NOTE 1—Methods A1 and A2 produce different vibration motions, and
5.3.2 Specifications for metal shim used in Methods A1 and
therefore, will generate different forces which may result in different
A2:
damage modes and intensities. Results from these two methods may not
correlate with one another. Width: 50 mm (20. in.) minimum
Thickness: 1.6 mm ( ⁄16 in.)
4.6 Method B, Single Container Resonance Test, tests or
Length: 254 mm (10 in.) minimum
determines the ability of an individual container and its interior
5.4 Methods B and C—Resonance Tests:
packaging to protect the contents from transportation vibration,
5.4.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a
particularly when the container and its contents might exhibit
horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the
resonant responses.
applied vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test
surface when loaded with the test specimen. The platform shall
NOTE 2—Individual products that are palletized might be better tested
using Method C. be supported by a mechanism capable of producing vibration in
D999 − 08 (2015)
the vertical linear plane at controlled accelerations or the contents during the test, holes may be cut in noncritical
displacements, or both, over a controlled continuously variable areas of the container.
range of frequencies. (A rotary motion of the platform is not
7.3 Whenever sufficient containers and contents are
acceptable.) Suitable fixtures and attachment points shall be
available, it is highly desirable that five or more replicate tests
provided to rigidly attach the test container to the platform for
be conducted to improve the statistical reliability of the data
Method B. Restraints shall be provided to restrain the horizon-
obtained (see Practice E122).
tal motion of the test specimens on the platform without
restricting the vertical motion of the specimen(s), for Method
8. Conditioning
C.
8.1 Condition test specimens prior to the test or during the
5.5 Instrumentation—Accelerometers, signal conditioners,
test, or both, in accordance with the requirements of the
and data display or storage devices are required to measure and
applicable specification. When no conditioning requirements
control the accelerations at the test surface in Methods B and
are given, and the container materials are climatically sensitive,
C. Instrumentation may also be desirable for monitoring the
a conditioning atmosphere is recommended (see Practice
response of the containers and packaged items. The instrumen-
D4332 for standard and special conditions).
tation system shall have a response accurate to within 65 %
9. Procedure
over the range specified for the test. Accelerometers should be
small and light weight enough as to not influence the response
9.1 Methods A1 and A2—Repetitive Shock Tests:
of the item being measured nor influence the results of the test.
9.1.1 Place the shipping container on the test machine
Detailed information on suitable instrumentation may be found
platform in its normal shipping orientation.
in the Shock and Vibration Handbook.
9.1.1.1 For Method A1, place the shipping container in the
center of the platform. For Method A2, place the shipping
5.6 Conditioning Apparatus—Adequate facilities shall be
container near the backstop or fence, equidistant from each
provided for conditioning test specimens at selected humidity
side of the platform.
and temperature prior to or during the test, or both, in
9.1.1.2 Restraining devices may be needed to prevent the
accordance with the requirements of the applicable specifica-
shipping container from moving horizontally or to prevent
tion.
excessive rocking. Restraining devices may effect the vertical
6. Safety Precautions
movement of the shipping container and attention must be
given to how and where restraints are used.
6.1 These test methods may produce severe mechanical
9.1.1.3 When restraining devices are used, orient and adjust
responses of the test specimens. Therefore, fences, barricades,
the restraining devices to allow free horizontal movement of
and other restraints must have sufficient strength and must be
the shipping container without restricting the vertical move-
adequately secured. Operating personnel must remain alert to
ment. There should be no severe horizontal impacting of
potential hazards and take necessary precautions for their
containers against restraints.
safety. Stop the test immediately if a dangerous condition
9.1.2 Start the vibration of the platform at a frequency of
should develop. For example, causing the container to go into
about 2 Hz, and steadily increase the frequency until the metal
resonance during testing may result in uncontrollable respon-
shim can be inserted under one long edge of the container and
sive bouncing. This may also lead to a dangerous situation,
moved intermittently
...
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: D999 − 08 D999 − 08 (Reapproved 2015)
Standard Test Methods for
Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D999; 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 vibration tests of filled shipping containers. Such tests may be used to assess the performance of
a container, with its interior packing and means of closure, both in terms of its strength and of the protection it provides its contents
when it is subjected to vibration such as it experiences in transportation. These procedures are suitable for testing containers of
any form, material, kind, design of interior packing, means of closure, and any size and weight. They are not intended for
determining the response of products to vibration for product design purposes, nor are they intended for tests of products in their
2,3
operational configuration as other more suitable procedures are available for these purposes.
1.2 The following methods appear:
Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion).
Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion).
Method B—Single Container Resonance Test.
Method C—Palletized Load, Unitized Load, or Vertical
Stack Resonance Test.
1.3 For testing of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) containing liquid hazardous materials, refer to Test Method D7387.
1.4 These test methods fulfill the requirements of International Organization for Standardization standards ISO 8318 and ISO
2247. The ISO standards may not meet the requirements for these methods.
1.5 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.
1.6 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. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 6.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
D3580 Test Methods for Vibration (Vertical Linear Motion) Test of Products
D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
D7387 Test Method for Vibration Testing of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) Used for Shipping Liquid Hazardous
Materials (Dangerous Goods)
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or
Process
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Packaging and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping Containers
and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2008Oct. 1, 2015. Published August 2008October 2015. Originally approved in 1948. Last previous edition approved in 20072008 as
D999 – 07.D999 – 08. DOI: 10.1520/D0999-08.10.1520/D0999-08R15.
Military Standard Environmental Test Methods, MIL-STD-810F, Method 514, Vibration, available from www.dodssp.daps.mil/dodssp.htm.
International Electrotechnical Commission Recommendation, Publication 68-2-6, Part 2, Test F: Vibration, Basic Environmental Testing Procedures for Electronic
Components and Electrical Equipment, available from American National Standards Institute, Inc., 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036.
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
D999 − 08 (2015)
2.2 ISO Standards:
ISO 2247 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport Packages—Vibration Test at Fixed Low Frequency
ISO 8318 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport Packages—Vibration Tests Using a Variable Frequency
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in these test methods, see Terminology D996.
3.1.2 double amplitude, n—the maximum value of a sinusoidal quantity (peak-to-peak).
3.1.3 octave, n—the interval between two frequencies having a ratio of two (2).
3.1.4 power spectral density (PSD), n—used to quantify the intensity of random vibration in terms of mean-square acceleration
2 2 2 2 2
per unit of frequency. The units are g /Hz ((m/s ) /Hz), where g is the acceleration of gravity, equal to 386 in./s (9.8 m/s ). Power
spectral density is the limiting mean square value in a given rectangular bandwidth divided by the bandwidth, as the bandwidth
approaches zero.
3.1.5 repetitive shock, n—impacts of a package on a test platform which occur cyclically from input oscillatory motion.
3.1.6 resonance, n—for a system undergoing forced vibration, the frequency at which any change of the exciting frequency,
positive and negative, in the vicinity of the exciting frequency causes a decrease in the response of the system.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Shipping containers are exposed to complex dynamic stresses when subjected to vibration present in all transportation
vehicles. Approximating the actual damage, or lack of damage, experienced in shipping may require subjecting the container(s)
and contents to vibration inputs.
4.2 Resonant responses during shipment can be severe and may lead to package or product failure. Identification of critical
frequencies, and the nature of package stresses can aid in minimizing the effect of these occurrences.
4.3 Vibration tests should be based on representative field data. When possible, the confidence level may be improved by
comparing laboratory test results with actual field shipment data. It is highly recommended that one understand the most common
failures to one’s products and packaging in distribution, and then attempt to replicate those failures in the laboratory. Once such
replication is established, then that test can become the minimum necessary test for future packaged products to pass.
4.4 Exposure to vibration can affect the shipping container, its interior packaging, means of closure, and contents. These tests
allow analysis of the interaction of these components. Design modification to one or more of these components may be utilized
to achieve optimum performance in the shipping environment.
4.5 Methods A1 and A2, Repetitive Shock Tests, are suitable for tests of individual containers that are transported unrestrained
on the bed of a vehicle and may be suitable for tests of containers that might be subjected to repetitive shocks due to magnification
of vibrations in unit loads or stacks.
NOTE 1—Methods A1 and A2 produce different vibration motions, and therefore, will generate different forces which may result in different damage
modes and intensities. Results from these two methods may not correlate with one another.
4.6 Method B, Single Container Resonance Test, tests or determines the ability of an individual container and its interior
packaging to protect the contents from transportation vibration, particularly when the container and its contents might exhibit
resonant responses.
NOTE 2—Individual products that are palletized might be better tested using Method C.
4.7 Method C, Palletized Load, Unitized Load or Vertical Stack Resonance Test, covers the determination of the presence and
the effects of resonance in palletized loads and multiple-unit stacked loads, and whether or not the strength of the containers is
sufficient to withstand dynamic loads when stacked.
4.8 Any or all of these test methods may be employed, as determined by the appropriate performance specification, with test
intensities, frequency ranges, and test durations as called for in the specification. Although these tests do not simulate the shipping
environment, they are intended to create the damage-producing potential of the shipping environment. Results of any one of these
methods may differ from the results of the others.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Method A1—Repetitive Shock Test (Vertical Motion):
5.1.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the applied
vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test surface when loaded with the test specimen. The platform shall be supported
by a mechanism that vibrates it so the motion is approximately a vertical sinusoidal input. (A rotary motion of the platform is not
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
D999 − 08 (2015)
acceptable.) The double amplitude displacement of the vibration shall be fixed at or controlled to 1 in. (25 mm), and the frequency
shall be variable within the range from 2 to at least 5 Hz (cycles per second). The vibration test machine shall be equipped with
fences, barricades, or other restraints to keep the test specimen from falling off the platform without restricting its vertical motion.
5.2 Method A2—Repetitive Shock Test (Rotary Motion):
5.2.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the applied
vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test surface when loaded with the test specimen. The platform shall be supported
by a mechanism that vibrates it so that the motion is a rotational input with the vertical component approximately sinusoidal. The
double amplitude displacement of the vibration shall be fixed at 1 in. (25 mm), and frequency shall be variable from 2 to at least
5 Hz (cycles per second). The vibration test machine shall be equipped with fences, barricades, or other restraints to keep the test
specimen from falling off the platform without restricting its vertical motion.
5.3 Metal Shim:
5.3.1 A metal shim is used in Methods A1 and A2 for determining when the shipping container is leaving the testing platform
by a sufficient amount as described in Section 9.
5.3.2 Specifications for metal shim used in Methods A1 and A2:
Width: 50 mm (20. in.) minimum
Thickness: 1.6 mm ( ⁄16 in.)
Length: 254 mm (10 in.) minimum
5.4 Methods B and C—Resonance Tests:
5.4.1 Vibration Test Machine, with a platform having a horizontal surface of sufficient strength and rigidity so that the applied
vibrations are essentially uniform over the entire test surface when loaded with the test specimen. The platform shall be supported
by a mechanism capable of producing vibration in the vertical linear plane at controlled accelerations or displacements, or both,
over a controlled continuously variable range of frequencies. (A rotary motion of the platform is not acceptable.) Suitable fixtures
and attachment points shall be provided to rigidly attach the test container to the platform for Method B. Restraints shall be
provided to restrain the horizontal motion of the test specimens on the platform without restricting the vertical motion of the
specimen(s), for Method C.
5.5 Instrumentation—Accelerometers, signal conditioners, and data display or storage devices are required to measure and
control the accelerations at the test surface in Methods B and C. Instrumentation may also be desirable for monitoring the response
of the containers and packaged items. The instrumentation system shall have a response accurate to within 65 % over the range
specified for the test. Accelerometers should be small and light weight enough as to not influence the response of the item being
measured nor influence the results of the test. Detailed information on suitable instrumentation may be found in the Shock and
Vibration Handbook.
5.6 Conditioning Apparatus—Adequate facilities shall be provided for conditioning test specimens at selected humidity and
temperature prior to or during the test, or both, in accordance with the requirements of the applicable specification.
6. Safety Precautions
6.1 These test methods may produce severe mechanical responses of the test specimens. Therefore, fences, barricades, and other
restraints must have sufficient strength and must be adequately secured. Operating personnel must remain alert to potential hazards
and take necessary precautions for their safety. Stop the test immediately if a dangerous condition should develop. For example,
causing the container to go into resonance during testing may result in uncontrollable responsive bouncing. This may also lead to
a dangerous situation, over-testing, or premature failures and potential safety issues to testing personnel and equipment.
7. Test Specimens
7.1 The test specimen shall consist of the container, as intended for shipment, loaded with the interior packaging and the actual
contents for which it was designed. Blemished or rejected products may be used, if the defect is recorded prior to the test. Dummy
test items should be used for developmental testing when necessary, but may not be used for final acceptance testing.
NOTE 3—Surrogate material may be used when actual product is unacceptable for use (for example, package testing for hazardous materials). For
packaging intended to contain liquid dangerous goods (hazardous materials), water should be used as the standard test medium.
7.2 Sensors and transducers may be applied with the minimum possible alteration of the test specimen, to obtain data on the
container or packaged item. When it is necessary to observe the contents during the test, holes may be cut in noncritical areas of
the container.
7.3 Whenever sufficient containers and contents are available, it is highly desirable that five or more replicate tests be conducted
to improve the statistical reliability of the data obtained (see Practice E122).
Harris, C. M., Shock and Vibration Handbook, McGraw-Hill, New York, NY, 1988, Chapter 16.
D999 − 08 (2015)
8. Conditioning
8.1 Condition test specimens prior to the test or during the test, or bot
...
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