ASTM E920-97(2008)

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation:E920–97 (Reapproved 2003) Designation: E 920 – 97 (Reapproved 2008)
Standard Specification for
Commercially Packaged Laboratory Apparatus
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E 920; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
This specification is proposed as a package performance standard to be met for items shipped
domestically. The standard would apply only when requested by the buyer.
1. Scope
1.1 This specification covers the procedures for testing loaded shipping containers. Drop and vibration tests are performed to
measure the ability of the shipping container to protect the product from the shock and vibration the container receives during
normal handling and transporting.This specification is not intended to supplant material specifications or existing preshipment test
procedures. This specification is not intended for use with hazardous materials.
1.2 These procedures are suitable for all types of laboratory apparatus, including reusable and disposable macro and micro
products.
1.3 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 4, of this specification: This standard
does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this
standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D 685 Practice for Conditioning Paper and Paper Products for Testing
D 999 Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
D 3951 Practice for Commercial Packaging
D 5276 Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by Free Fall
3. Requirements
3.1 Three test specimens are required. Each specimen shall be run through the sequence of tests in the order given.
3.2 Condition test specimens in accordance with Practice D 685. Standard conditions must be maintained throughout the test
sequence.
3.3 The packaging shall comply with Practice D 3951 except cleanliness of laboratory apparatus shall be as required by the
Product Standard, the Quality Assurance Standard, or as agreed upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
4. Procedure
4.1 Vibration Test—Perform the vibration test in accordance with Method A of Methods D 999.
4.1.1 Proceed with the following test duration and sequence: bottom for 30 min; side for 15 min; and end for 15 min. Total
vibration time will be 60 min.
4.2 Drop Test—Perform the drop test in accordance with Method D 775.
4.2.1 Determine the drop height of the specimen from the following:
Gross Weight, lb (kg) Drop Height, in. (mm)
0to20lb(0to9.1kg) 16in.(406mm)
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E41 on Laboratory Apparatus and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E41.01 on Glass
Apparatus.
Current edition appro
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