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Mechanical Handling Test

21 August 2023

(Download: Mechanical Handling Test in PDF by Medistri)

Mechanical handling refers to the use of machines and equipment to move, store, control, and protect materials, goods, and products throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal. Mechanical handling tests are used to evaluate the ability of shipping units to withstand the stresses of manual and mechanical handling during the distribution process.

Mechanical Handling Test is important because it is used to evaluate the shipping unit as to suitability for mechanical handling by standard user-specified load-handling equipment. These test methods will allow the user to determine integrity and stability of the load as well as provide guidance to improve the design of the unit load where deficiencies are found. Damage to products or packages observed during testing may be expected to correlate at least in a qualitative way to damage observed in actual distribution handling systems.

The test plan consists of a sequence of anticipated hazard elements encountered in various distribution cycles. The recommended test levels are based on available information on the shipping and handling environment, and current industry/government practice and experience. The tests should be performed sequentially on the same containers in the order given.

👉 These test methods will allow the user to determine the integrity and stability of the load, as well as provide guidance to improve the design of the unit load where deficiencies are found.

The test methods include:

Test Method A: Fork Truck Handling.
Test Method B: Spade Lift Test.
Test Method C: Clamp Handling Test.
Test Method D: Push-Pull Handling Test.
Test Method E: Grabhook Test.
Test Method F: Sling Tests.

The ASTM D6055 standard provides a set of test methods for evaluating the mechanical handling of unitized loads and large shipping cases and crates. These test methods are designed for use in most cases with the actual equipment to be used in load handling. They may be used to evaluate the shipping unit’s suitability for mechanical handling by standard user-specified load-handling equipment.

Practice D4169 provides a series of options for selecting and running performance tests on all types of shipping containers and systems. The ASTM D4169 is a standard practice for performance testing of shipping containers and systems. It provides a guide for the evaluation of shipping units in accordance with a uniform system, using established test methods at levels representative of those occurring in actual distribution. The tests should be performed sequentially on the same containers in the order given. For use as a performance test, this practice requires that the shipping unit tested remain unopened until the sequence of tests is completed.

At Medistri, our partners can benefit from reliable and flexible services to develop their products and accelerate their time-to-market. Medistri’s focus on technology-first solutions and its expertise in Validation services to help clients ensure the integrity and stability of their shipping units, as well as provide guidance to improve the design of their unit loads where deficiencies are found, resulting in cost savings, reduced product damage, and increased customer satisfaction.

🎯 To learn more about Medistri’s Mechanical Handling Testing, visit on our website here or directly contact our team at contact@medistri.swiss.

- The Medistri Team

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