Operation process
The packaging drop testing machine is a key equipment to evaluate the impact resistance of transportation packaging when subjected to vertical impact and the ability of the packaging to protect the contents. Its operation must strictly follow relevant standards to ensure the repeatability and accuracy of test results. This process is designed to provide operators with a systematic and standardized set of operating guidelines.
How it works:
The equipment is mainly composed of a drop release device, an impact table, a height ruler, a specimen fixing device and a safety protection mechanism. Its core working principle is to make the packaging specimen fall freely to the impact plane at a predetermined height through a mechanical or pneumatic mechanism that can be repeatedly released, simulating the drop impact that may be encountered during loading, unloading and handling.
Preparation before operation
Before operation, the operator needs to confirm that the laboratory environment meets the standard requirements, usually the temperature is (23±2)°C and the relative humidity is (50±5)%. The following inspections and preparations are required:
1. Safety inspection: Confirm that the power supply of the equipment is well grounded, the safety protection devices (such as protective fences and emergency stop switches) are functional, and there is no debris on the impact countertop and surrounding areas.
2. Equipment calibration confirmation: Check whether the zero point of the drop height gauge is accurate and whether the action of the release device is flexible and unblocked. Calibrate the drop height regularly on a periodic basis.
3. Specimen preparation: Prepare representative packaging parts according to testing standards (such as GB/T 4857.5, ISO 2248, ASTM D5276) and perform temperature and humidity pretreatment as required. Clearly mark the drop location and direction on the specimen.
4. Parameter confirmation: According to the product standard or test plan, clarify the drop height (H), the number of drops, the impact location and sequence.
Standard operating procedure
Performing tests by following these steps ensures the standardization of the process:
Step 1: Parameter setting
The drop height is set by means of a height scale according to the preset test conditions. Drop height (H) usually refers to the vertical distance between the lowest point of the packaging specimen and the nearest point of the impact table. The formula for calculating potential energy is: E = m × g × H, where E is the potential energy (unit: J), m is the mass of the specimen (unit: kg), g is the acceleration of gravity (take 9.81 m/s²), and H is the drop height (unit: m).
Step 2: Specimen clamping
The specimen is securely fixed using the fixtures provided by the equipment (e.g. gripping manipulators, support plates). Make sure that the predetermined impact surface or edge of the specimen is parallel to the lower surface of the release device, and that the specimen is in a free suspension state without additional support interfering with its free fall.
Step 3: Release and drop
After confirming the safety of the impact area again, trigger the release device. The operator should observe the drop process to ensure that the specimen is in free fall and that the first impact part meets the requirements. After a drop is completed, the specimen is completely stationary before being recycled.
Step 4: Follow-up testing and inspection
Repeat drops on other faces, edges, or corners of the same specimen in a predetermined order. After each fall, the damage of the packaging should be checked immediately, and the contents can be inspected according to the standard requirements.
Step 5: Data logging
Record each test parameter and result in detail. We recommend using a checklist format like this:
| Test item number | TP-2023-001 |
| Drop height | 800 mm |
| Specimen quality | 15.2 kg |
| Shock order | Bottom-edge-corner |
| Description of packaging breakage | The corners are dented, and the corrugated cardboard is torn ≤ 30mm |
| The state of the contents | Function is normal with no visible damage |
Operational precautions
Safety is the first principle. No part of the body should enter the drop zone during operation. When the release device is stuck, the power source must be cut off before treatment. In terms of equipment maintenance, it is necessary to clean the impact countertop regularly to keep it flat and clean; lubrication of rotating parts and release mechanism; Check the fasteners regularly for looseness. When not in use for a long time, the main power supply should be cut off.
Outcome evaluation
After testing, it is evaluated against the applicable product standards or conformity guidelines in the agreement. The assessment typically includes the degree of structural damage to the packaging container and the appearance and functional integrity of the contents. A complete test report should include equipment information, environmental conditions, specimen description, test parameters, process observations, and final conclusions.
Citation standards
GB/T 4857.5 Packaging - Transport packaging - Drop test method
ISO 2248:1985 Packaging Complete, fully packed shipping packages Vertical impact drop test
ASTM D5276-98(2019) Standard Test Method for Test Method for Free Fall Fall of Shipping Containers