ISO 4118:2016
(Main)Air cargo — Non-certified lower deck containers — Design and testing
Air cargo — Non-certified lower deck containers — Design and testing
ISO 4118:2016 covers the design, performance and testing requirements for lower deck containers for use in main line aircraft which do not require airworthiness approval/certification when loaded under the conditions of compartment restraint and/or where applicable according to the aircraft type's approved Weight and Balance Manual, ISO 8097 or ISO 21100 equivalent base plate restraint for these containers. Aircraft Weight and Balance Manuals require non-certified containers be constructed then loaded in such a manner that neither the container nor its contents can become a hazard or damage the aircraft structure under flight conditions. Compliance with ISO 4118:2016 is one means of demonstrating compliance with these requirements. Most sizes of containers covered by ISO 4118:2016 (base sizes K, L, P and Q) cannot physically be loaded and latched on aircraft main deck cargo systems. Base size A and M containers can, but are not allowed on aircraft main decks, which in general do not accept non-certified units. Accordingly, all containers covered by ISO 4118:2016 are intended to be used/installed exclusively in aircraft lower deck compartments NOTE The metric equivalents for dimensions have been rounded up or down to the nearest millimetre, except in critical dimensions. Masses have been rounded up to the nearest kilogram and forces have been rounded up to the nearest 10 N. See introduction where it is deemed necessary to use exact values.
Fret aérien — Conteneurs non-certifiés de pont inférieur — Conception et essais
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INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 4118
Fourth edition
2016-07-01
Air cargo — Non-certified lower deck
containers — Design and testing
Fret aérien — Conteneurs non-certifiés de pont inférieur —
Conception et essais
Reference number
ISO 4118:2016(E)
©
ISO 2016
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2016, Published in Switzerland
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ii © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .v
Introduction .vi
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Dimensions and ratings . 2
5 Design requirements . 4
5.1 General . 4
5.2 Base . 5
5.3 Body . 5
5.4 Doors . 6
5.5 Internal tie-down . 7
5.6 Placard holders . 7
5.7 Design options . 7
6 Flight conditions performance and testing . 7
6.1 Pressure equalization and rapid decompression . 7
6.2 Flight loads . 7
7 Ground conditions performance and testing . 9
7.1 General . 9
7.2 Bridging and cresting . 9
7.3 Impact test . 9
7.4 Rain test . 9
7.5 Racking test .10
8 Markings .10
9 Customs/security sealing (optional) .11
10 Manufacturer’s instructions .11
11 Quality control .12
11.1 Design and production .12
11.2 Operations .12
Annex A (normative) Code DKC half-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .16
Annex B (normative) Code DKE/DKN half-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .18
Annex C (normative) Code DKP half-width rectangular containers dimensions and
design requirements .20
Annex D (normative) Code DLF full-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .22
Annex E (normative) Code DLP full-width rectangular containers dimensions and
design requirements .24
Annex F (normative) Code DPE/DPN half-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .26
Annex G (normative) Code DQF full-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .28
Annex H (normative) Code DQP full-width rectangular containers dimensions and
design requirements .30
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
Annex I (normative) Code DAF full-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .32
Annex J (normative) Code DMF full-width contoured containers dimensions and
design requirements .33
Annex K (normative) Code DKH low height full-width containers dimensions and
design requirements .34
Annex L (normative) Code DKG low height half-width containers dimensions and
design requirements .35
Bibliography .37
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity assessment,
as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 20, Aircraft and space vehicles, Subcommittee
SC 9, Air cargo and ground equipment.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition (ISO 4118:2005), of which it constitutes a
complete technical revision.
© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved v
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
Introduction
The basic functions of air cargo containers are
a) the unitization of baggage, cargo or mail during ground handling and transportation, and
b) the restraint in accordance with aircraft Weight and Balance Manual requirements of their contents
against accelerations encountered in flight.
This revision introduces containers flight conditions testing in order to provide means to substantiate
their ability to withstand maximum flight loads so that neither the container nor its contents can
become a hazard or damage the aircraft structure.
Throughout this International Standard, the minimum essential criteria are identified by use of the
key word “shall.” Recommended criteria are identified by use of the key word “should” and, while not
mandatory, are considered to be of primary importance in providing safe, economical and practical
air transport containers. Deviation from recommended criteria should only occur after careful
consideration and thorough service evaluation have shown alternate methods to provide an equivalent
level of safety.
The requirements of this International Standard are expressed in the applicable SI units, with
approximate inch-pound units conversion between brackets for convenience in those countries using
that system. Where it is deemed necessary to use exact values, the SI unit ones are to be used, except for
container base plan-view dimensions, whose exact values are those expressed in inches.
vi © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved
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INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 4118:2016(E)
Air cargo — Non-certified lower deck containers — Design
and testing
1 Scope
This International Standard covers the design, performance and testing requirements for lower deck
containers for use in main line aircraft which do not require airworthiness approval/certification when
loaded under the conditions of compartment restraint and/or where applicable according to the aircraft
type’s approved Weight and Balance Manual, ISO 8097 or ISO 21100 equivalent base plate restraint for
these containers.
Aircraft Weight and Balance Manuals require non-certified containers be constructed then loaded in
such a manner that neither the container nor its contents can become a hazard or damage the aircraft
structure under flight conditions. Compliance with the present International Standard is one means of
demonstrating compliance with these requirements.
Most sizes of containers covered by this International Standard (base sizes K, L, P and Q) cannot
physically be loaded and latched on aircraft main deck cargo systems. Base size A and M containers
can, but are not allowed on aircraft main decks, which in general do not accept non-certified units.
Accordingly, all containers covered by this International Standard are intended to be used/installed
exclusively in aircraft lower deck compartments
NOTE The metric equivalents for dimensions have been rounded up or down to the nearest millimetre,
except in critical dimensions. Masses have been rounded up to the nearest kilogram and forces have been
rounded up to the nearest 10 N. See introduction where it is deemed necessary to use exact values.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 4116, Air cargo equipment — Ground equipment requirements for compatibility with aircraft unit
load devices
ISO 7166, Aircraft — Rail and stud configuration for passenger equipment and cargo restraint
ISO 10046, Aircraft — Methodology of calculating cargo compartment volumes
ISO 10254, Air cargo and ground equipment — Vocabulary
ISO 11242, Aircraft — Pressure equalization requirements for cargo containers
ISO 21100, Air cargo unit load devices — Performance requirements and test parameters
CAAC CCAR-25, Airworthiness Standards –Transport Category Airplanes, paragraph 25.855, Cargo or
1)
baggage compartments
U.S. Code of Federal Regulations 14 CFR Part 25, Airworthiness Standards: Transport category airplanes,
2)
paragraph 25.855, Cargo or baggage compartments
1) The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) CCAR-25 constitutes the Chinese government transport
aircraft airworthiness Regulations.
2) 14 CFR Part 25 constitutes the U.S.A. Government transport aircraft airworthiness Regulations, and can be
obtained from: US Government Printing Office, Mail Stop SSOP, Washington DC 20402-9328, U.S.A. or its web site at
www.gpoaccess.gov.from: US Government Printing Office, Mail Stop SSOP, Washington DC 20402-9328, U.S.A. or its
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
European Aviation Safety Agency CS-25, Certification Specifications for Large Aeroplanes, paragraph
3)
25.855, Cargo or baggage compartments
4)
Japanese Airworthiness Standard Part 3 (Civil Aeronautics Law Article 10, paragraph 4)
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the definitions in ISO 10254 and the following apply.
3.1
aircraft container
completely enclosed unit load device which interfaces directly with the aircraft cargo handling and
restraint system and alone performs all the functions of a unit load device
3.2
certification
approval
approval by an airworthiness authority that a component or item of equipment meets the required
performance for aircraft installation
3.3
non-certified container
container exclusively for the lower deck of wide-body aircraft, which is not subject to airworthiness
approval (certification), but may be carried under conditions specified by the aircraft’s Weight and
Balance Manual
3.4
Weight and Balance Manual
W&BM
manual published for each aircraft type by its manufacturer, which is approved by the airworthiness
authority as part of the aircraft type’s certification and defines the set of limits not to be exceeded by
the operating carrier when loading
4 Dimensions and ratings
4.1 Containers complying with this International Standard are identified by a type code composed
5)
of three letters:
a) the first letter D denoting a non-certified aircraft container;
b) the second letter A, K, L, M, P or Q denoting the base size as defined in ISO 21100;
c) the third letter denoting the contour determined in accordance with ISO 10046 (see NOTE).
website at www.gpoaccess.gov.
3) EASA CS-25 constitutes the European Governments transport aircraft airworthiness Regulations and can be
obtained from: European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Postfach 101253, D-50452 Cologne, Germany, or its web
site at www.easa.europa.eu.
4) Japanese Airworthiness Standard Part 3 (ISBN 4-89279-661-1) constitutes the Japanese government transport
aircraft airworthiness Regulations, and can be obtained from the Civil Aviation Bureau (CAB) of the Ministry of
Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism, Tokyo, Japan, or its website at www.mlit.go.jp/en.
5) The type code is, by industry consensus, under custody of and assigned by the International Air Transport
Association (IATA), ULD Registrar, 800 Place Victoria, P.O. Box 113, Montréal, Québec H4Z 1M1, Canada, web site at
www.iata.org.
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
The identification code shall be prominently marked on two opposite sides of the container (see
Clause 8).
EXAMPLE
A non-certified aircraft container (D) of base size 3 175 mm x 1 534 mm (125 in x 60,4 in) (size L) and of
nominal overall width 3 175 mm (125 in) (rectangular contour P) shall be designated as DLP.
NOTE The containers type code’s third (contour) digit is subject to change to accommodate evolving airline
needs. Check the latest yearly edition of IATA Unit Load Devices Regulations Standard Specifications 40/1 and
50/0 Appendix E (References [5] and [6]) for any code changes.
4.2 External contours, dimensions, and ratings of applicable containers are shown in Table 1.
Table 1 — Ratings and contour dimensions of non-certified containers
Rating (Maxi- Contour and
IATA Identifica-
mum operation- external
Name of containers and nominal dimensions in mm (in) tion Code (IATA
al gross mass) dimensions
b
40/1)
a
kg (lb)
Half-width contoured container, 2 337 mm (92 in) wide, 1 588 kg
Annex A DKC
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in) (3 500 lb)
Half-width contoured container, 2 007 mm (79 in) wide, 1 588 kg
Annex B DKE/DKN
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in) (3 500 lb)
Half-width rectangular container, 1 562 mm (61,5 in) wide, 1 588 kg
Annex C DKP
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in) (3 500 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 4 064 mm (160 in) wide, 3 175 kg
Annex D DLF
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 3 175 mm (60,4 in × 125 in) (7 000 lb)
Full-width rectangular container, 3 175 mm (125 in) wide, 3 175 kg
Annex E DLP
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 3 175 mm (60,4 in × 125 in) (7 000 lb)
Half-width contoured container, 1 562 mm (61,5 in) wide, 1 225 kg
Annex F DPE/DPN
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 194 mm (60,4 in × 47 in) (2 700 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 3 175 mm (125 in) wide, 2 449 kg
Annex G DQF
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 2 438 mm (60,4 in × 96 in) (5 400 lb)
Full-width rectangular container, 2 438 mm (96 in) wide, 2 449 kg
Annex H DQP
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 2 438 mm (60,4 in × 96 in) (5 400 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 4 064 mm (160 in) wide, 4 627 kg
Annex I DAF
with base dimensions 2 235 mm × 3 175 mm (88 in × 125 in) (10 200 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 4 064 mm (160 in) wide, 5 103 kg
Annex J DMF
with base dimensions 2 438 mm × 3 175 mm (96 in × 125 in) (11 250 lb)
Low-height, full-width contoured container, 2 438 mm (96 in) wide, 1 588 kg
Annex K DKH
c
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in) (3 500 lb)
Low-height, half-width contoured container, 2 007 mm (79 in) wide, 1 588 kg
Annex L DKG
c
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in) (3 500 lb)
a
Actual maximum gross mass shall comply with the aircraft’s Weight and Balance Manual.
b
Carriage of non-certified containers in any cargo compartment must be allowed by the aircraft type’s Weight and
Balance Manual.
c
Limited to 1 134 kg (2 500 lb) on the main aircraft types concerned.
NOTE The maximum gross mass allowable for a non-certified container on any given position of an aircraft
is determined by the aircraft type or sub-type’s Authority-approved Weight and Balance Manual. Because this
value is aircraft type dependent, airlines through IATA have agreed, principally for interlining purposes, to define
for each ULD size a container maximum operational gross mass independent from the aircraft type, as shown in
Table 1, which is often higher or sometimes lower than the maximum allowable one on a given aircraft type.
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
5 Design requirements
5.1 General
5.1.1 Non-certified lower-deck containers shall meet the requirements of this International Standard
and, in accordance with airworthiness Authority-approved aircraft Weight and Balance Manuals, be
constructed then loaded in such a manner that neither the container nor its contents can become a
hazard or damage the aircraft structure under flight conditions.
5.1.2 The container shall consist of a complete enclosure (base, top, four sides) with door.
5.1.3 The structure shall be designed to provide the maximum usable internal volume available
within the limits of structural design and the space required for latching, including door(s).
5.1.4 Provisions shall be made for closing and sealing the container to meet customs clearance and
security requirements (see Clause 9).
5.1.5 The tare weight of the container shall be kept to a minimum, consistent with the requirements
and within the limits of sound design practice.
A direct environmental impact of containers use is that their weight results in additional fuel burn by
aircraft. Therefore, apart from economic advantages, reducing containers weight as much as possible
to still meet performance objectives is a highly effective environmental contribution and should be
pursued.
5.1.6 If required (see 5.7), means of fork-lifting the container shall be provided in accordance with
the appropriate annexes.
5.1.7 Robustness, reliability and maintainability shall be major factors in the design, commensurate
with planned service life.
5.1.8 The materials used shall be fire resistant, in accordance with the regulatory requirements of CS-
25, CCAR-25, JAS Part 3 or 14 CFR Part 25 Appendix F Part I § (a)(2)(iv) and (a)(1)(v), i.e. may not have a
burn rate greater than 100 mm (4 in) per minute when tested horizontally as specified in Part I § (b)(5).
5.1.9 During material selection, preference shall be given to recyclable materials and materials that
minimize overall environmental impact, as well as carbon dioxide production, where this does not
compromise container performance and weight. The container’s components and materials should
be selected in order to allow identified recycling methods when out of use. Instructions for recycling
should be provided by the manufacturer (see 10.1).
5.1.10 No surfaces or edges shall present sharp or rough edges potentially injurious to personnel
or cargo.
5.1.11 Insofar as atmospheric conditions may affect the performance of the container or any part
thereof, it should be taken into account that during transportation, these conditions range from
−40 °C (−40 °F) to 60 °C (140 °F) in temperature, with relative humidity from 20 % to 85 %. These
are the mean temperature and humidity figures worldwide without taking into account extremes in
temperature such as those experienced in arctic, sub-polar, or desert regions. This, however, is not a
test requirement.
5.1.12 Component parts shall be replaceable by interchange with new or repaired ones. Panel
assemblies should be replaceable by interchange with new or repaired ones.
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ISO 4118:2016(E)
5.2 Base
5.2.1 The base shall be smooth and free from rough or sharp edges which may be hazardous to
personnel, cargo, aeroplane, ramp, and terminal handling equipment. The base shall be structurally
attached to, and an integral part of, the container assembly. The construction shall be designed
for strength and durability to withstand harsh treatment during its service life. It shall have a high
resistance to impact and wear. Where attachment of the container body to the base is required, this
should be accomplished by the use of normal hand tools.
5.2.2 Care shall be exercised in the design and construction of the base to ensure that flatness of
the lower surface and edge members can be maintained in service and it is of adequate strength to
minimize bowing and to provide for the ease of conveyance
5.2.3 The base’s outer dimensions and tolerances shall be as defined for the relevant size in ISO 21100.
All base edges, corners, and restraint space shall have dimensions as shown in Figure 1 for sizes K, P
and Q, or Figure 2 for sizes A, L and M, and Table 4. The recess over the base edge shall be maintained
continuously all around the base periphery. The required minimum clearance shall be provided under
the sloped (overhanging) panel on the outboard side(s).
5.2.4 The base design shall provide for support and ease of movement at the equally distributed
rating on minimum conveyor systems as defined in ISO 4116. Its stiffness shall aim at not exceeding
2
a maximum area load of 10 kPa (209 lbf/ft ) on the underlying conveying system. The minimum core
stiffness of the base shall be
2 2
— 77 N.m /m (680 lbf.in /in) width/length of core for sizes K, P or Q,
2 2
— 330 N.m /m (2 900 lbf.in /in) width/length of core for all other sizes.
5.2.5 Where optional forklift capability is provided, the minimum forklift entry size should be
100 mm (4 in) high by 300 mm (12 in) wide, with chamfered protected edges.
5.2.6 Where provided, there shall be forklift entries at least on the two long sides, although three-
way entry is preferred on K-size and P-size units.
5.2.7 On size L and size Q units, the distance between the inner edges of the optional forklift entries
shall be not less than 815 mm (32 in), and on size K and size P units not less than 355 mm (14 in).
5.2.8 The optional base forklift tine entry and separation should b
...
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 4118
ISO/TC 20/SC 9 Secretariat: AFNOR
Voting begins on Voting terminates on
2013-02-20 2013-05-20
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION • МЕЖДУНАРОДНАЯ ОРГАНИЗАЦИЯ ПО СТАНДАРТИЗАЦИИ • ORGANISATION INTERNATIONALE DE NORMALISATION
Air cargo — Non-certified lower deck containers —
Specification and testing
Fret aérien — Conteneurs non-certifiés de pont inférieur — Spécifications et essais
[Revision of third edition (ISO 4118:2005)]
ICS 55.180.30
To expedite distribution, this document is circulated as received from the committee
secretariat. ISO Central Secretariat work of editing and text composition will be undertaken at
publication stage.
Pour accélérer la distribution, le présent document est distribué tel qu'il est parvenu du
secrétariat du comité. Le travail de rédaction et de composition de texte sera effectué au
Secrétariat central de l'ISO au stade de publication.
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY NOT BE
REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES, DRAFT
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH
THEY ARE AWARE AND TO PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION.
© International Organization for Standardization, 2013
---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
ISO/DIS 4118
Copyright notice
This ISO document is a Draft International Standard and is copyright-protected by ISO. Except as permitted
under the applicable laws of the user’s country, neither this ISO draft nor any extract from it may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission being secured.
Requests for permission to reproduce should be addressed to either ISO at the address below or ISO’s
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Reproduction may be subject to royalty payments or a licensing agreement.
Violators may be prosecuted.
ii © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
ISO/DIS 4118
iii
© ISO 2012 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 3 ----------------------
ISO/DIS 4118
Contents Page
Foreword . vi
Introduction . vii
1 Scope .1
2 Normative references .1
3 Dimensions and ratings .2
4 Design requirements .3
4.1 General .3
4.2 Base .4
4.3 Body .5
4.4 Doors .5
4.5 Internal tie-down .6
4.6 Placard holders .6
4.7 Testing and performance .6
4.8 Additional design options .7
5 Markings .8
6 Customs / security sealing (optional) .8
7 Manufacturer's instructions .9
8 Quality control .9
8.1 Design and production .9
8.2 Operations .9
Annex A (normative) Code DKC half-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 14
Annex B (normative) Code DKE/DKN half-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 15
Annex C (normative) Code DKP half-width rectangular containers dimensions and design
requirements . 16
Annex D (normative) Code DLF full-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 17
Annex E (normative) Code DLP full-width rectangular containers dimensions and design
requirements . 18
Annex F (normative) Code DPE/DPN half-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 19
Annex G (normative) Code DQF full-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 20
Annex H (normative) Code DQP full-width rectangular containers dimensions and design
requirements . 21
Annex I (normative) Code DAF full-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 22
Annex J (normative) Code DMF full-width contoured containers dimensions and design
requirements . 23
iv
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---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
ISO/DIS 4118
Annex K (normative) Code DKH low height full-width containers dimensions and design
requirements . 24
Annex L (normative) Code DKG low height half-width containers dimensions and design
requirements . 25
Bibliography . 26
v
© ISO 2012 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 5 ----------------------
ISO/DIS 4118
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO 4118 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 20, Aircraft and space vehicles, Subcommittee
SC 9, Air cargo and ground equipment.
7KLVIRXUWKHGLWLRQFDQFHOVDQGUHSODFHVWKHWKLUGHGLWLRQ,62ZKLFKKDVEHHQWHFKQLFDOO\UHYLVHG
vi
© ISO 2012 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 6 ----------------------
ISO/DIS 4118
Introduction
The basic functions of air cargo containers are:
a) the unitization of baggage, cargo or mail during ground handling and transportation, and
b) the restraint in accordance with aircraft Weight and Balance Manual requirements of their contents
against accelerations encountered in flight.
Throughout this International Standard, the minimum essential criteria are identified by use of the key word
“shall”. Recommended criteria are identified by use of the key word “should” and, while not mandatory, are
considered to be of primary importance in providing safe, economical and practical air transport containers.
Deviation from recommended criteria should only occur after careful consideration and thorough service
evaluation have shown alternate methods to provide an equivalent level of safety.
The requirements of this International Standard are expressed in the applicable SI units, with approximate
inch-pound units conversion between brackets for convenience in those countries using that system. Where it
is deemed necessary to use exact values, the SI unit ones are to be used, except for container base plan-view
dimensions, whose exact values are those expressed in inches.
vii
© ISO 2012 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 7 ----------------------
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 4118
Air cargo — Non-certified lower deck containers —
Specification and testing
1 Scope
This International Standard covers the design, performance and operational testing requirements for lower
deck containers for use in main line aircraft which do not require airworthiness approval / certification when
loaded under the conditions of compartment restraint and/or, where applicable according to the aircraft type's
approved Weight and Balance Manual, ISO 8097 or ISO 21100 equivalent base plate restraint for these
containers.
Most sizes of containers covered by this International Standard (base sizes K, L, P and Q) cannot physically
be loaded and latched on aircraft main deck cargo systems. Base size A and M containers can, but are not
allowed on aircraft main decks, which in general do not accept non-certified units. Accordingly, all containers
covered by this International Standard are intended to be used / installed exclusively in aircraft lower deck
compartments.
NOTE 1 The metric equivalents for dimensions have been rounded up or down to the nearest millimetre, except in
critical dimensions. Masses have been rounded up to the nearest kilogram and forces have been rounded up
to the nearest 10 N. See introduction where it is deemed necessary to use exact values.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 4116, Aircraft ground equipment — Requirements for compatibility with aircraft Unit Load Devices.
ISO 7166, Aircraft — Rail and stud configuration for passenger equipment and cargo restraint.
ISO 10046, Aircraft — Methodology of calculating cargo compartment volumes.
ISO 10254, Air cargo and ground equipment — Vocabulary.
ISO 11242, Aircraft — Pressure equalization requirements for cargo containers.
ISO 21100, Air cargo unit load devices — Performance requirements and test parameters.
CAAC CCAR-25, Airworthiness Standards –Transport Category Airplanes, paragraph 25.853, Compartment
1)
interiors.
U.S. Code of Federal Regulations 14CFR Part 25, Airworthiness Standards: Transport category airplanes,
2)
paragraph 25.853, Compartment interiors.
1) The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) CCAR-25 constitutes the Chinese government transport aircraft
airworthiness approval Regulations.
2) 14 CFR Part 25 constitutes the U.S.A. Government transport aircraft airworthiness Regulations, and can be obtained
from: US Government Printing Office, Mail Stop SSOP, Washington DC 20402-9328, U.S.A. or its web site
www.gpoaccess.gov.
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European Aviation Safety Agency CS-25, Certification Specifications for Large Aeroplanes, paragraph 25.853,
1)
Compartment interiors.
2)
Japanese Airworthiness Standard Part 3 (Civil Aeronautics Law Article 10 § 4).
NOTE 2 Also see informative references in Bibliography.
3 Dimensions and ratings
3.1 External contours, dimensions, and ratings of applicable containers are shown in Table 1.
Table 1 — Ratings and contour dimensions of non-certified containers
Rating (Maximum Contours and
IATA Identification
Name of containers and nominal dimensions in mm (in) operational gross external
b
Code (IATA 40/1)
a
dimensions
mass) kg (lb)
Half-width contoured container, 2 337 mm (92 in) wide,
Annex A DKC
1 588 kg
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in)
(3 500 lb)
Half-width contoured container, 2 007 mm (79 in) wide,
Annex B DKE/DKN
1 588 kg
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in)
(3 500 lb)
Half-width rectangular container, 1 562 mm (61,5 in) wide,
1 588 kg Annex C DKP
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in) (3 500 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 4 064 mm (160 in) wide,
3 175 kg Annex D DLF
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 3 175 mm (60,4 in × 125 in) (7 000 lb)
Full-width rectangular container, 3 175 mm (125 in) wide,
3 175 kg Annex E DLP
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 3 175 mm (60,4 in × 125 in) (7 000 lb)
Half-width contoured container, 1 562 mm (61,5 in) wide,
1 225 kg Annex F DPE/DPN
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 194 mm (60,4 in × 47 in) (2 700 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 3 175 mm (125 in) wide, 2 449 kg Annex G DQF
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 2 438 mm (60,4 in × 96 in) (5 400 lb)
Full-width rectangular container, 2 438 mm (96 in) wide,
2 449 kg Annex H DQP
(5 400 lb)
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 2 438 mm (60,4 in × 96 in)
Full-width contoured container, 4 064 mm (160 in) wide, 4 627 kg Annex I DAF
with base dimensions 2 235 mm × 3 175 mm (88 in × 125 in) (10 200 lb)
Full-width contoured container, 4 064 mm (160 in) wide, 5 103 kg Annex J DMF
(11 250 lb)
with base dimensions 2 438 mm × 3 175 mm (96 in × 125 in)
Low-height, full-width contoured container, 2 438 mm (96 in) wide, 1 134 kg Annex K DKH
(2 500 lb)
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in)
Low-height, half-width contoured container, 2 007 mm (79 in) wide, 1 134 kg Annex L DKG
(2 500 lb)
with base dimensions 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in)
a
Actual maximum gross mass shall comply with the aircraft's Weight and Balance Manual.
b
Carriage of non-certified containers in any cargo compartment must be allowed by the aircraft type's Weight and Balance Manual.
1) EASA CS-25 constitutes the European Governments transport aircraft airworthiness Regulations and can be obtained
from : European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Postfach 101253, D-50452 Cologne, Germany, or its web site at
www.easa.europa.eu.
2) Japanese Airworthiness Standard Part 3 (ISBN 4-89279-661-1) constitutes the Japanese government transport
aircraft airworthiness approval Regulations, and can be obtained from the Civil Aviation Bureau (CAB) of the Ministry of
Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism, Tokyo, Japan, or its website at www.mlit.go.jp/en.
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NOTE 3 The maximum gross mass allowable for a non-certified container on any given position of an aircraft is
determined by the aircraft type or sub-type's Authority approved Weight and Balance Manual. Because this
value is aircraft type dependent, airlines through IATA have agreed, principally for interlining purposes, to define
for each ULD size a container maximum operational gross mass independent from the aircraft type, shown in
Table 1, which is often higher or sometimes lower than the maximum allowable one on a given aircraft type.
3.2 Containers complying with this lnternational Standard are identified by a type code composed of three
1)
letters:
a) the first letter D denoting a non-certified aircraft container;
b) the second letter denoting the base size as defined in ISO 21100;
c) the third letter denoting the contour determined in accordance with ISO 10046 (see NOTE 3).
The identification code shall be prominently marked on two opposite sides of the container (see clause 5).
EXAMPLE
A non-certified aircraft container (D) of base size 3 175 mm x 1 534 mm (125 in x 60,4 in) (size L) and of
nominal overall width 3 175 mm (125 in) (contour P) shall be designated as follows: DLP
NOTE 4 The containers type code's third (contour) digit is subject to change to accommodate evolving airline needs.
Check the latest yearly edition of IATA Unit Load Devices Standard Specifications 40/1 and 50/0 Appendix E
(references [4] and [5] in Bibliography) for any code changes.
4 Design requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Non-certified lower-deck containers for aircraft shall meet the requirements of this International
Standard and, in accordance with airworthiness Authority approved aircraft Weight and Balance Manuals, be
constructed then loaded in such a manner that neither the container nor its contents can become a hazard or
damage the aircraft structure under flight conditions.
4.1.2 The container shall consist of a complete enclosure (base, top, four sides) with door.
4.1.3 The structure shall be designed to provide the maximum usable internal volume available within the
limits of structural design and the space required for latching, including door(s).
4.1.4 Provisions shall be made for closing and sealing the container to meet customs clearance and
security requirements (see clause 6).
4.1.5 The tare weight of the container shall be kept to a minimum, consistent with the requirements and
within the limits of sound design practice.
NOTE 5 A direct environmental impact of containers use is that their weight results in additional fuel burn by aircraft.
Therefore, apart from economic advantages, reducing containers weight as much as possible to still meet
performance objectives is a highly effective environmental contribution and must be pursued.
4.1.6 If required (see sub-clause 4.8), means of fork-lifting the container shall be provided in accordance
with the appropriate annexes.
4.1.7 Stacking capability is not required but may be an option for forkliftable models (see sub-clause 4.8).
4.1.8 Robustness, reliability and maintainability shall be major factors in the design, commensurate with
planned service life.
1) The type code is, by industry consensus, under custody of and assigned by the International Air Transport Association
(IATA), ULD Registrar, 800 Place Victoria, P.O. Box 113, Montréal, Québec H4Z 1M1, Canada, web site www.iata.org.
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4.1.9 The materials and processes used in the construction shall be capable of withstanding extremely hard
usage for a cost-related life. Materials shall be suitably sealed against liquid absorption to ensure no
deterioration in strength under normal environmental conditions.
4.1.10 The materials used shall be fire resistant, in accordance with the regulatory requirements of CS-25,
CCAR-25, JAS Part 3 or 14 CFR Part 25 Appendix F Part I § (a)(2)(iv) and (a)(1)(v), i.e. may not have a burn
rate greater than 100 mm (4 in) per minute when tested horizontally as specified in Part I § (b)(5) .
4.1.11 During material selection, preference shall be given to recyclable materials and materials that
minimize overall environmental impact as well as carbon dioxide production, where this does not compromise
container performance and weight. The container's components and materials should be selected in order to
allow identified recycling methods when out of use. Instructions for recycling should be provided by the
manufacturer (see sub-clause 7.1).
4.1.12 No surfaces or edges shall present sharp or rough edges potentially injurious to personnel or cargo .
4.1.13 Insofar as atmospheric conditions may affect the performance of the container or any part thereof, it
should be taken into account that during transportation, these conditions range from − 40 °C (− 40 °F) to 60 °C
(140 °F) in temperature, with relative humidity from 20 % to 85 %. These are the mean temperature and
humidity figures worldwide without taking into account extremes in temperature such as those experienced in
arctic, sub-polar, or desert regions. This, however, is not a test requirement.
4.1.14 Component parts shall be replaceable by interchange with new or repaired ones. Panel assemblies
should be replaceable by interchange with new or repaired ones.
4.2 Base
4.2.1 The base shall be smooth and free from rough or sharp edges which may be hazardous to personnel,
cargo, aeroplane, ramp, and terminal handling equipment. The base shall be structurally attached to, and an
integral part of, the container assembly. The construction shall be designed for strength and durability to
withstand harsh treatment during its service life. It shall have a high resistance to impact and wear. Where
attachment of the container body to the base is required, this should be accomplished by the use of normal
hand tools.
4.2.2 Care must be exercised in the design and construction of the base to ensure that flatness of the lower
surface and edge members can be maintained in service and it is of adequate strength to minimize bowing
and to provide for the ease of conveyance.
4.2.3 The base's outer dimensions and tolerances shall be as defined for the relevant size in ISO 21100.
All base edges, corners, and restraint space shall have dimensions as shown in Figure 1 for sizes K, P and Q,
or Figure 2 for sizes A, L and M, and Table 2. The recess over the base edge shall be maintained
continuously all around the base periphery. The required minimum clearance shall be provided under the
sloped (overhanging) panel on the outboard side(s).
4.2.4 The base design shall provide for support and ease of movement at the equally distributed rating on
minimum conveyor systems as defined in ISO 4116. The minimum core stiffness of the base shall be
2 2
429 N.m / m (3 800 lbf.in / in) width / length of core. Its stiffness shall aim at not exceeding a maximum area
2
load of 10 kPa (209 lbf/ft ) on the underlying conveying system.
4.2.5 Where optional forklift capability is provided, the minimum forklift entry size should be 100 mm (4 in)
high by 300 mm (12 in) wide, with chamfered protected edges.
4.2.6 Where provided, there shall be forklift entries at least on the two long sides, although three-way entry
is preferred on K-size and P-size units.
4.2.7 On size L and size Q units, the distance between the inner edges of the optional forklift entries shall
be not less than 815 mm (32 in), and on size K and size P units not less than 355 mm (14 in).
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4.2.8 The optional base forklift tine entry and separation should be designed so that the base panel of the
2
unit imparts no more than 10 kPa (209 lbf/ft ) to the supporting conveyor systems.
4.3 Body
4.3.1 It is essential that the container's integrity be maintained throughout its transportation because the
container interfaces directly with the aircraft system. Imposed loads shall be sustained by the base and the
body. The materials and methods of construction must, therefore, be adequate for this task.
4.3.2 The sides, roof, and door(s) shall be of a minimum weight commensurate with maximum stability
during both ground handling and air transportation.
4.3.3 Access for loading is generally required on one or both longer sides, although positions may vary to
suit individual requirements.
4.3.4 The roof shall be flush, such that any protrusions do not cause damage in contact with the aircraft's
cargo compartment ceiling. The top of the container shall be self-draining and designed for easy snow
removal.
4.3.5 There shall be no intrusions between the base edges, as defined in Figures 1 and 2 base details
typical for all edges, and the container body within a depth of 28 mm (1,12 in) from the base edges.
4.3.6 In addition to those on the door (see 4.4.4), two non protruding handles or straps shall be located on
each side panel for manual handling of the container by one person. Each handle shall provide 150 mm (6 in)
wide by 75 mm (3 in) deep space for gripping with a gloved hand, and shall have a minimum capacity of
445 daN (1 000 lbf) pull in any direction.
4.3.7 To facilitate repair and assembly, component parts shall be readily removable with hand tools and
shall be interchangeable.
4.3.8 The container's body shall not contain rough or sharp edges potentially dangerous to personnel,
cargo, airplane or terminal handling equipment. Any gussets in the door opening shall be of minimum size,
consistent with the strength and/or deflection requirements.
4.3.9 The minimum height dimension of the container is 1 600 mm (63 in) for standard height (contours C,
E, F, N or P) containers and 1 118 mm (44 in) for low height (contours G or H) containers.
4.4 Doors
4.4.1 Doors shall be designed to avoid finger-pinching hazards and be of sufficient strength to contain the
load during air and ground transportation. It shall be possible for one person to open or close the door and any
associated net or hardware in no more than 1 min for full-width units (base sizes A, L, M and Q), and no more
than 15 s for half-width units (base sizes K and P).
It shall be possible to open any type of door without exceeding a height of 2,5 m (98 in), measured from the
underside of the base. The door shall be capable of being opened with a 102 mm (4 in) high obstacle
adjacent to the base.
The door shall be stowable on top of the unit. Means of retention in the open position shall be provided, which
shall be able to maintain the door in the open and stowed position in wind and blast up to a minimum of 110
km/h (60 knots).
4.4.2 The door(s) shall have a minimum number of securing devices to sustain the handling loads at
maximum gross mass without unlocking. These devices are required to positively secure the door(s) in the
closed position. They should be so located that they cannot damage, or become damaged by, an adjacent
container. No tools shall be required to operate the door(s) or the securing devices.
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