ASTM D6055
Standard Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
Micom laboratories offers ASTM D6055 as part of its packaging test services. This method tests the integrity of the container and the capacity of the contents to withstand normal handling through the use of standard mechanical handling equipment. The acceptance criteria of this test protocol are based on the ASTM D4169 standard. Also, this method mainly focuses on the load handling while ISTA 3B and ISTA 3E are principally committed to simulate the typical distribution conditions of a shipping unit.
Use and factors to be considered for mechanical handling testing of unitized loads and other large shipping containers:
ASTM D6055 details many test methods that are specially designed to characterize a single property of the container or of the loads. Indeed, they evaluate the ability of the shipping unit to endure the characteristic breaking hazard of the mechanical handling equipment while they are being transported. Since there is a qualitative correlation can be made between the testing damages to products or packages and the ones observed in the actual distribution with these test methods, the latter provides guidance to improve the design of the unit load.
The main factors that are to be considered when running this test are: the minimum number of handling, the temperature, the humidity, the total force applied and the platen size.
Typical Experimental parameters for ASTM D6055 testing:
The number of specimens required has to be specified, but multiple shipping units of a given design, if possible. Table 1 describes the usage of the different test methods and the required user’s specifications. Lastly, the atmosphere’s conditions shall be in accordance with the ASTM D4332 standard.
Table I: Description of the usage of different test methods
| Test methods | Usage | User’s specifications |
| Test method A Fork truck handling | Employed for testing the ability of the shipping unit to resist repeated handling. | 1. Minimum number of handling 2. Fork type and size |
| Test method B Spade lift test | Used to determine the ability of the handling flap of the case or of the shipping unit to withstand repeated lifting and handling. | 1. Minimum number of handling |
| Test method C Clamp handling test | Used to characterize the ability of the shipping unit to endure squeeze clamp handling, which consists of repeated side compression and lifting. | 1. Minimum number of handling 2. Platen size |
| Test method D Push-pull handling test | Employed for testing the ability of a unitized load on a slip sheet to withstand repeated handling. | 1. Minimum number of handling 2. Platen size |
| Test method E Grabhook test | Used to assess the capacity of a shipping unit to withstand the horizontal pressures of grabhooks. | None |
| Test method F Sling tests | Employed to determine the ability of the shipping unit to withstand the compression of slings. | None |
Other test methods related to ASTM D6055:
For additional related test methods, please see ASTM D880 , ASTM D4003.
If you have any questions about the ASTM D6055 test, we invite you to contact our material testing lab today. It will be our pleasure to answer your questions and help you with your custom material testing requirements.