ISO/TC 51/WG 2 - Methods of test for pallets

ISO 8611-1:2011 specifies the test methods available for evaluating new flat pallets for materials handling. The test methods are split into groups for nominal load testing, maximum working load testing and durability comparison testing. It is not intended to apply to pallets with a fixed superstructure or a rigid, self-supporting container that can be mechanically attached to the pallet and which contributes to the strength of the pallet.

ISO 12777-3 specifies methods of determining the resistance of pallet joints primarily to static load by determining the strength and stiffness of nailed or stapled joints, wood to wood, wood to wood-based materials, wood to plastics or plastics to plastics. This part of ISO 12777 is applicable to joints with all types of nails up to 7 mm diameter (including plain shank, helical, annular ring, barbed and twisted) and with staples.

Describes test methods for the determination of the bending resistance of pallet nails, staples and other dowel-type fasteners. Includes test for the ultimate strength in static bending and impact bend resistance. These test methods apply to all types of nails.

ISO 8611-1:2004 specifies test methods of existing and prototype flat pallets for materials handling for all types of use It cannot be used to evaluate a pallet to normative ISO requirements without the additional application of ISO/TS 8611-2 and ISO/TS 8611-3.

Clause 2: correct the title of ISO 2244 as follows: ISO 2244:1985, Packaging - Complete, filled transport packages - Horizontal impact tests (horizontal or inclined plane test; pendulum test).

Specifies test methods, particularly appropriate for pallet prototypes. The tests are principally intended for the evaluation of existing pallets or of new designs of pallets in relation to their designed load capacity. The tests may be valuable in point of manufacture quality assurance and field testing of pallets, but not for research purposes.