Standardization News

ASTM International Committee D10 on Packaging is encouraging more participation as it makes major revisions to a standard that tests packaging for many consumer products and other goods. The group is revising the standard, D4169, Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems.

"The general public benefits from this standard every day," says ASTM member Bryan Williams. "Many consumer goods, including food and beverages, electronics, healthcare products and more, are tested using this standard."

Williams, a technical marketing specialist at Lansmont Corp., notes that the standard provides a framework for companies to determine how to simulate different shipping and handling conditions in a laboratory. These tests give businesses the opportunity to design packaging that provides adequate protection and is cost effective. Manufacturers, suppliers and laboratories use the standard to determine appropriate test plans for simulating distribution.

The committee is particularly interested in gathering more input from heavy users of the standard, though all interested parties are welcome to join in the ongoing process.

Prior to its next meeting (April 26-29 in Anaheim, California), the committee would like to hear feedback on the suggested change to random vibration profiles. The group hopes to determine whether new or existing profiles best correlate with performance in the field.

D4169 is under the jurisdiction of ASTM International Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping Containers and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods, part of D10.

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CONTACT Technical Information: Bryan Williams, Lansmont Corp. • Monterey, Calif. • tel +1.831.655.6605 | ASTM Staff: Diane Lake • Phone: 610-832-9661 | Upcoming Meeting: April 26-29 • April Committee Week • Anaheim, Calif.