Carton drop tester

The Carton Drop Tester is designed to simulate the impact experienced by packaging during transportation, handling, and loading/unloading. It evaluates the impact strength of packages, the durability of materials, and the rationality of packaging design by performing controlled free-fall drops.

Applications

This tester is widely used in the packaging, logistics, electronics, food, pharmaceutical, and e-commerce industries. It is suitable for manufacturers of corrugated cartons, boxes, and transport packaging to ensure product protection and optimize packaging design.

Standards

The Carton Drop Tester meets the following international and national standards:

ISO 2248 – Packaging — Transport packages — Vertical impact test by dropping

GB/T 4857-5 – Packaging — Transport packages — Vertical impact test by dropping

ASTM D5276 – Standard test method for drop test of loaded containers by free fall

ISTA 1A, 2A, 3A – International Safe Transit Association protocols

ASTM 4619 – Standard test methods for packages

IEC 60068-2-31 – Environmental testing — Drop test

JIS Z0202 – Japanese Industrial Standard for package drop testing

EN 438-2.21 – High-pressure decorative laminates — Determination of impact resistance

Advantages

Accurate and repeatable testing with consistent results

Simulates real-world handling and shipping conditions

Identifies weak points in packaging design

Ensures adequate product protection

Supports compliance with international standards

Provides data for optimizing packaging strength and cost

Features

Adjustable drop height from 300 mm to 1500 mm

Free, reliable, and precise release mechanism

Capable of surface, edge, and corner drop tests

Rigid impact surface to ensure consistent test conditions

Motorized or pneumatic lifting mechanism

Digital controls and touch-screen interfaces (optional)

Safety features to protect operators and equipment

Sturdy frame supporting packages up to 70 kg

Technical Parameters

Accessories

Adjustable sample holders

Remote control for motorized operation

Calibration reference standards (optional)

Safety guards and operator protection devices

Test Procedures

1. Preparatory Work

‌Inspect Equipment: Check all components of the testing machine for integrity. Verify that lifting mechanisms, release mechanisms, locking devices, and other parts show no signs of looseness, damage, or abnormal noises. Simultaneously inspect the electrical system for proper function, ensuring wires are undamaged and plugs are securely connected.

‌Select Impact Surface: Choose an appropriate impact surface based on testing standards and the characteristics of the test item. Install it securely, ensuring the surface is level and firmly fixed.

‌Position Test Item:

Carefully place the test item on the designated area of the test platform. For irregularly shaped or easily displaced items, secure them using appropriate fixtures or restraints to prevent shifting during lifting and drop cycles.

2. Parameter Setup

‌Set Drop Height:

Precisely configure the drop height according to test requirements using the machine's height adjustment mechanism or control panel. Some test machines allow height adjustment via rotary knobs, button operations, or touchscreen inputs. Verify the height value is accurate after setting.

Select drop method: Choose the appropriate drop method based on requirements, such as face drop, edge drop, or corner drop. Different drop methods may require adjusting the orientation of the test item on the platform or using different fixtures.

3. Conducting the Test

‌Lift the platform: Activate the lifting mechanism to smoothly raise the test platform to the preset drop height. Closely monitor the platform's operation during ascent to ensure steady movement without jamming or shaking.

‌Execute the drop: Once the platform reaches the set height and stabilizes, activate the release mechanism to allow the test item to freely fall onto the impact surface. Observe the test item's drop state during release for any abnormalities.

4. Post-Test Procedures

‌Inspect the Item: After completing the drop test, carefully remove the test item and inspect its appearance for damage such as cracks, deformation, or scratches. Additionally, for items with functional requirements, conduct functional testing to verify proper operation.

‌Record Data: Document all parameters from the test process in detail, including drop height, drop method, model and specifications of the test item, and post-test inspection results. This documentation facilitates subsequent analysis and evaluation.

FAQ

1. Why is the "Corner Drop" considered the most severe part of the test?

In a corner drop, the impact energy is concentrated on the smallest surface area. This often leads to the highest degree of deformation and is the most likely to cause structural failure in the corrugated board or damage to the product inside.

2. Can this machine test packages heavier than 70 kg?

This specific model is rated for a maximum of 70 kg. Testing heavier items could damage the motor or the release wings. For larger industrial pallets, a heavy-duty hydraulic drop tester would be required.

3. What is a "Free-Fall" and why does the wing speed matter?

A true free-fall occurs when the support is removed faster than the package can fall. Our tester's wings are designed to snap away at a high velocity, ensuring that no friction from the machine interferes with the package's natural acceleration due to gravity ($9.8 m/s^2$).

4. How do I determine the correct drop height for my product?

The drop height is usually determined by the weight of the package and the intended shipping method. For example, ISTA standards typically prescribe higher drops for lighter packages (which are often tossed) and lower drops for heavier packages (which are moved with equipment).

5. Is a 380V power supply mandatory?

Yes, the 1.85 kW motor used for lifting and the pneumatic controls require a 3-phase AC 380V supply to ensure consistent power and speed. Always ensure your lab is equipped with the correct industrial power outlet before installation.